A highly addictive drug produced by acetylating morphine. It is usually used as the hydrochloride. In the UK it is a class A drug but can be prescribed as a painkiller under the name diamorphine. The Marquis and Froedhe tests are used to give an initial indication of heroin.
Biology
A narcotic compound that is a synthetic derivative of morphine (seeopiate). The compound is easily absorbed by the brain, due to its lipid-like nature, and is used as a sedative and powerful analgesic. Highly addictive, it is abused by drug users.