What is one of the key effects of heroin on the body?

The key effect of heroin on the body is clouded mental functioning. Heroin is an opioid that acts on the brain's receptors, leading to a significant alteration in cognitive processes. Users often experience a decrease in their ability to think clearly or respond appropriately to stimuli. This diminished mental clarity can manifest as confusion, poor decision-making, and impaired cognitive abilities, which can be dangerous, especially in situations requiring alertness, such as driving.

While other substances might cause increased alertness or aggression, heroin specifically tends to depress the central nervous system, resulting in sedative effects rather than stimulating effects. This reinforces the idea that clouded mental functioning is a primary consequence of heroin use, contrasting sharply with the effects associated with stimulants or other drugs. Additionally, heroin does not typically elevate heart rate; rather, it can lead to a slower respiratory rate and potential respiratory depression, further emphasizing its impact on cognitive functioning over physical stimulation.