While somewhat overshadowed in the media by the threats posed by cocaine and crack, heroin remains the most addictive and deadly of the street drugs.

Readers are introduced to the origins of the drug, its street names and the fact that the introduction of newer, more pure strains of heroin have reduced the need to inject it, increasing its potential attraction to needle-averse users.

The mechanism by which this derivative of opium lures its users into addiction, then traps them with unbearably painful withdrawal symptoms is explained, as are the short- and long-term physical effects of heroin, the risk posed by needle sharing among abusers, and the grave danger of fatal overdose.

For further research, the pamphlet refers readers to In the Know Zone, Fox Pro Media's free drug abuse information website.