Black Tar Heroin - Addiction Center

What Is Black Tar Heroin?

Black tar heroin is a cruder form of the illicit opioid that is black and sticky in appearance and texture. It is most commonly produced in Mexico and is often less refined than powdered heroin, which means it contains more impurities. Black tar heroin is usually sold in small chunks and is typically cheaper than other forms.

Some people assume that black tar heroin is less potent than white powder heroin because it is less refined. In reality, black tar can be just as strong, and its unpredictable purity makes dosing especially risky. This misconception often leads users to take more than intended, increasing the risk of overdose.

Find a Treatment Center Near You

Discover affordable rehab centers near you, offering easy access and convenience. Stay close to family and friends while getting the support you need.

• Detox
• Inpatient Rehab
• Outpatient Rehab

Search OR Speak to a treatment center directly (870) 515-8609

Effects Of Black Tar Heroin

All forms of heroin produce the same general effects, regardless of appearance. Black tar heroin is often considered less pure because it is made using a faster, less refined process, and its average purity is typically lower (around 30%) though this can vary widely. White or powdered heroin is often thought to be purer, but it is frequently cut with other substances to increase profits, which reduces purity and adds risk. While black tar heroin is cheaper to produce and buy, its manufacturing process usually results in more impurities, which can make it especially dangerous. They include:

• Contentment
• Reduced anxiety
• Relieved tension
• Drowsiness
• Apathy

Anyone who uses black tar heroin will feel these effects from the first time they use it. Unfortunately, these are also the desired effects that make the drug so addictive. While both long and short-term black tar heroin users are equally likely to experience an overdose, the longer someone uses heroin the more likely they are to develop other disorders and diseases. Long-term effects of heroin use include:

• Insomnia
• Collapsed veins (from intravenous use)
• Damaged tissue (where drug is ingested)
• Infection of the heart lining and valves
• Abscesses (swollen tissue filled with pus)
• Constipation

• Stomach cramps
• Liver and kidney disease
• Lung disease
• Mental disorders
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Irregular menstrual cycles in women

Signs Of Overdose From Black Tar Heroin

Signs of heroin overdose include, but aren’t limited to:

• Shallow or no breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Weak pulse
• Dry mouth
• Tongue discoloration
• Very small pupils

• Bluish lips and nails
• Stomach or intestinal spasms
• Delirium
• Passing out
• Uncontrollable muscle movements
• Extreme drowsiness

If someone begins exhibiting these symptoms, timely use of naloxone can reverse these symptoms and stop an overdose before it turns fatal.

Care That's Covered by Insurance

Explore rehabs that accept your insurance today! Start your recovery journey with peace of mind, knowing your care is covered.

Find Rehab by Insurance Provider

Addiction Center is not affiliated with any insurance.

Black Tar Heroin Addiction

Many who become addicted to heroin do not start heroin because that is what they want. Statistically, the average user will turn to heroin after they’ve already developed an opioid addiction. This is generally from a prescription opioid that they were receiving legally for legitimate pain they had. However, they may not realize that they developed an addiction until their prescription ran out. After that point, they must find a new way to feed the biological craving they are feeling. Symptoms of heroin addiction include:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Sudden weight loss
• Secretive behavior
• Changes in appearance
• Lack of motivation
• Extreme drowsiness or nodding off
• Financial problems/borrowing money
• Depression

• Constipation
• Slurred speech
• Paranoia
• Shortness of breath
• Collapsed veins
• Severe itchiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Studies report that 80% of the people addicted to heroin once started by using a prescription opioid. After they’ve grown addicted, and their prescription has run out, many turn to purchasing the drug illicitly. It is only after desperation sets in that they will turn to heroin, a cheaper and more potent alternative. Black tar heroin is generally relatively cheap and easy to locate in the Central and Western United States.

Explore These Featured Centers

Ad miles

Name

City , State Online Multiple Locations

Insurance Accepted Private Pay

more

Browse Treatment Centers

Treatment For Black Tar Heroin Addiction

If you or someone you love suffer from addiction to black tar or any kind of heroin, do not be afraid to seek help. Many cases of addiction start innocently, with someone just trying to manage physical pain. The worst thing you can do is close yourself off. It will just allow your addiction to grow while you push away those closest to you. Contact a treatment provider today.