Calling it a crisis is woefully inadequate, as the opioid epidemic has had a major impact on the American way of life. According to the CDC, addiction has become the leading cause of death for Americans under the age of 50. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimates that there are 2.1 million Americans addicted to heroin and another 6.5 million addicted to prescription opioids. Some estimates indicate that up to 40% of heroin addicts in the U.S. also struggle with the abuse of prescription opioids.
The DEA reports that heroin availability is higher than ever before. There are different sources for a drug that’s become cheaper and more potent. The spread of prescription opioids has made heroin abuse much more common. The recent crackdown on prescription opiate production has made sources of heroin more difficult to track. From 2013 to 2017, the DEA has seen heroin seizures increase by 33%.
Today, we’re going to take a closer look at one of the most dangerous drugs sweeping the nation—China White heroin. Here’s everything you need to know:
A Dangerous Designer Drug: What is China White Heroin?
Otherwise known as cold and uncut heroin, China White is a form of high-purity heroin. Its potency is 10% to 15% more potent than traditional Mexican brown heroin, with 7% to 8%. China White is one of the most dangerous types of heroin on the illicit drug market. It is frequently combined with toxic additives that don’t dissolve, such as fentanyl and rat poison.
China white is one of the most common street names for heroin, and it’s important to note that it’s not something that’s “unique” to China. It’s also not a specific strain of heroin—it’s a byproduct of the manufacturing process.
The origin of the name is a bit muddled and often debated, although there are a few explanations. One random theory is that it comes from the Burmese and Thai pronunciation of the color white. Another possible explanation might be the name of the drug’s inventor, who had a fondness for white clothing. They were said to have been the only supplier who used a recipe that included the step of adding acetic anhydride.
Where Does it Really Come From?
According to the DEA, China White typically originates in Colombia, and it is taken to the U.S. through shipping routes and then smuggled across the border.
It is believed that Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel controls much of the heroin production and its sale and transportation. China White heroin is made from opium poppies grown in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru geographically distinct regions. The drug is sold in a fine white powder or a white to brown colored rock crystal.
The Dangers of China White Heroin: What Makes it Dangerous?
China White, also known as China Girl, is a form of high-purity heroin that has become far more prevalent in recent times. It is frequently laced with toxic additives, such as rat poison and the painkiller fentanyl, to increase the drug’s potency, making it even more dangerous.
Because it’s a white powder and therefore challenging to detect, it is frequently mixed with other drugs and substances, such as cocaine or fentanyl, both responsible for overdoses. Therefore because China White is a white powder, it isn’t easy to detect. It is frequently mixed with other drugs and substances, such as cocaine or fentanyl, responsible for overdoses.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid about 100 times more potent than morphine. It is estimated to be roughly 50 to 100 times more powerful than heroin. It is classified as a schedule II drug by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. When combined with heroin, fentanyl produces a faster onset and increased intensity. Addicts will often believe they are experiencing heroin, and then, as the fentanyl takes effect, they will begin to overdose.
What are the Side Effects of China White Heroin?
There is a high risk of overdose from street heroin, and China White is no exception. However, China White is particularly potent, rising from 8.4% in 2008 to 10.4% in 2013. What’s more, it is difficult to detect, often being mixed with other substances or drugs, such as cocaine or fentanyl, both of which have been responsible for overdoses.
The side effects of using this drug depend on whether it is injected, smoked, or snorted. When it is snorted, side effects include:
- Bloody nose
- Light nosebleeds
- Coughing up blood
When it is injected, side effects include:
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bruising or discoloration of skin
When it is smoked, side effects include:
- Anxiety
- Coughing and sneezing
- Dizziness
Additionally, China White has been linked to a number of other serious side effects, including:
- Anemia
- Arthritis
- Diarrhea
- Hypotension
- Hypothermia
There is a high risk of overdose and relapse for those who survive using China White and return to using heroin after an extended period. Additionally, China White’s tendency to be mixed with toxic additives such as fentanyl and rat poison increases the likelihood of overdose.
China White Addiction: How to Treat Addiction to China White Heroin
Fortunately, treatment options are available to help those struggling with China White addiction. Treatments can be found in inpatient, outpatient, and/or sober living environments.
For some, the best choice is a medically assisted treatment program. In these programs, patients receive medications that help block the effects of the opioid, thus alleviating the withdrawal symptoms and making it easier to stop using the drug. In some cases, methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone may be prescribed to reduce cravings and manage symptoms.
How to Tell if Someone is Using China White Heroin
Most people struggling with addiction know how to hide it well. They could be high, and no one would know even their closest friends and family. The signs and symptoms of China White abuse are often similar to those of other drugs and opioid use disorders. So it can be challenging to identify when someone is using it. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Impaired judgment
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Decreased coordination
- Slurred speech
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Low blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Skin Crawling and Itching
- Abdominal cramping
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Miosis
- Trouble breathing
- Trouble sleeping
- Tremors
- Dizziness
How to Find Help for China White Addiction
Treatment programs tend to be most successful when they are tailored to the individual needs of the addict.
Since China White is a dangerous, high-strength opioid, the best treatment program for this drug addresses the physical and psychological needs of the individual and offers evidence-based therapy to break the addiction.
Contact your local drug treatment center for more information on the signs of heroin abuse and treatment options. The caring staff will be happy to assist you.
The Bottom Line
China White is a poisonous, dangerous drug that has had a severe effect on the lives of thousands of people across the country. It is a potent form of heroin that is often laced with other substances, including fentanyl, to increase the high.
Unfortunately, China White heroin is highly addictive, and it’s easy to overdose. A number of serious side effects and complications can arise. Fortunately, there is help available. If you or someone you love is struggling with China White addiction, get help now. Don’t wait any longer. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can begin to recover.