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"Heroin" vs. "morphine": words of potent impact

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 02/11/2024, 14:14
English.me team member
Heroin and morphine. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both heroin and morphine are opioids derived from the opium poppy and are used for pain relief, although heroin is illegal in most countries while morphine is used medically. They can both be addictive and have similar effects on the brain, leading to increased tolerance and potential for abuse.

What is different?

Heroin is typically more potent and acts faster than morphine. It is illegal and is often used recreationally, whereas morphine is a legal prescription medication used primarily for treating severe pain. Heroin is often prepared as a white or brownish powder or a black sticky substance known as black tar, while morphine is available in pills, injections, or as a syrup.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for heroin) and morphine

Examples of usage

Heroin
  • The rise in opioid addiction has led law enforcement to crack down on heroin trafficking.
  • Heroin is sometimes mixed with other substances, which can increase the risk of overdose.
  • The addiction center offers programs specifically designed to help those struggling with heroin addiction.
Morphine
  • The doctor prescribed morphine to the patient to manage post-surgical pain.
  • Dosage of morphine must be carefully monitored due to its potential for addiction.
  • Morphine is considered a gold standard for relieving severe pain in medical settings.

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