Final answer:
Heroin and morphine bind to opioid receptors in the brain and alter pain perception, leading to euphoria. Repeated use can cause dependence, and drugs like methadone are used in treatment. Tolerance and risk of overdose are serious concerns associated with opioid abuse.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a person takes heroin or morphine, their brain undergoes significant changes. These drugs are opioids, which means they bind to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract. This binding results in a change in the perception of pain, causing analgesic effects. Moreover, opioids such as heroin and morphine can lead to a release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. This surge in dopamine contributes to the intense feeling of euphoria commonly experienced by users.
Repeated use of these opioids can lead to physiological and psychological dependence. Withdrawal symptoms from physical dependence can be severe and include anxiety, depression, and cravings. In treating heroin addiction, a drug like methadone is often prescribed because it reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the high associated with heroin.
Tolerance to opioids can also develop, leading users to consume higher doses to achieve the same effect. This phenomenon increases the risk of overdose, particularly with powerful opioids like fentanyl. The Opioid Crisis emphasizes the dangers inherent in the abuse of prescription and non-prescription opioids, underlining the need for careful monitoring of opioid use and the promotion of rehabilitation for those struggling with addiction.