When the great actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman died of a drug overdose, many were shocked to discover the substance that killed him was heroin. Hoffman was not the only wealthy and famous person to die of heroin intoxication. Heroin is an extremely dangerous drug yet, there is an inviting component to the white powder that draws people to it.

Myths About Heroin

A great many myths exist about drugs and the drug culture. Regarding heroin, there is an assumption the drug remains the drug of choice for those “down and out”. This image of the drug was commonplace in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Such an image is not entirely true as heroin has become a very popular drug among the wealthy and elite. Cocaine is not always the number one choice for a “rich man’s drug”. Heroin has its dangerous place in the world of the wealthy. The obvious question so many have is “Why?”

A Crossover Drug

One reason wealthy people use heroin is due to a separate addiction to opiates. In an attempt to overcome physical pain, a person may take pill form opiates until a full-blown addiction develops. In time, heroin, also an opiate, becomes a much stronger substitute for the pills. In some cases, a substitute may be necessary. Acquiring the pills through legitimate sources could end up becoming extremely difficult for an addict. Purchasing heroin on the street becomes the only viable alternative.

Sadly, there are also those who enjoy the danger associated with heroin. Bizarrely, using the drug develops a strange and ominous appeal.

The Seductive Nature of Heroin

Heroin has a long and torrid history. Again, many famous people suffered due to their experiences with the drug. The association with famous people creates a strange interest in the drug. The danger associated with using heroin actually makes it appealing to the idle rich. The sensation of danger offers a new kick that sometimes helps bring the affluent out of sense of boredom.

Party-Oriented Delivery Methods

Numerous wealthy heroin users become involved with the drug on the club and party scene. They are introduced to the drug today in the same way cocaine was in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Others on the club circuit present it to them. Those not familiar with heroin might find this bizarre since the drug is delivered via a needle. This is not always the case. Heroin can be snorted or smoked, two delivery methods that make introduction to the drug on the party scene a lot easier. Unfortunately, first experiences with heroin in any form sets the stage for a major addiction.

Seeking Help

No matter what your social status is, heroin use may end up being life threatening. For this reason and more, anyone who is addicted to heroin should immediately look into options for inpatient rehab.

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