The Dark Side of Black Tar Heroin: How it Affects Your Body and Brain

What Is Black Tar Heroin?

Black Tar Heroin is a highly addictive opioid drug that has recently gained popularity, with experts highlighting its dangers and predicting it could overtake “crack” in usage. This dangerous drug is derived from the opium poppy plant and has no legal medical applications in the United States. Despite its harmful effects on physical and mental health, many individuals continue to use Black Tar Heroin, contributing to the current national crisis of addiction and overdose. In this article, we will delve into the dark side of Black Tar Heroin, exploring its effects on both the body and the brain.

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Black Tar's Potency and Street Names

Black Tar Heroin gets its name from its sticky, tar-like consistency. It is a type of heroin that is manufactured using a crude extraction method, leaving behind impurities that make it more potent and dangerous than other forms of heroin. This dark, black substance is typically sold in small chunks or balls and is known for its intense and immediate effects. It can be smoked, snorted, or injected and is also referred to as “Mexican Brown,” “Black,” “Black dragon,” or “Brown.”

How Does Black Tar Heroin Affect Your Body?

Using Black Tar Heroin can result in both short-term and long-term physical and psychological effects. Short-term effects may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and constipation. In some cases, users may experience convulsions, seizures, and even death.

Long-term use of Black Tar Heroin can cause severe damage to the body. Repeated injection of the drug can lead to infections, abscesses, and other health problems at the injection site, including skin infections and blood clots. It can also cause damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, and respiratory problems like pneumonia and lung abscesses.

Short-term effects:

  • Euphoria and rush
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Reduced respiration and heart rate
  • Constricted pupils
  • Itching and scratching

Long-term effects:

  • Addiction and dependence
  • Damage to the lungs, liver, and kidneys
  • High risk of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis
  • Cardiovascular problems such as heart disease and stroke
  • Hormonal imbalances and sexual dysfunction
  • Weight loss and malnutrition
  • Premature aging
black tar heroin 3

How Black Tar Heroin Affects Your Brain

Black Tar Heroin affects the brain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system. This triggers a surge of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that controls pleasure and reward sensations. This flood of dopamine creates an intense sense of euphoria that reinforces the urge to use the drug.

As the brain adapts to the drug’s effects, it develops tolerance to its presence, requiring increasingly higher doses to achieve the same level of high. This process of building up tolerance can quickly lead to addiction and dependence, making it difficult for users to stop using the drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Mental Health Risks of Black Tar Heroin Use

Black Tar Heroin use can also have  severe impacts on mental health. This may include:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Paranoia and psychosis
  • Cognitive impairment and memory problems
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

 These mental health problems can make it even more difficult to quit using the drug.

Why Addiction is So Difficult to Overcome

Addiction is a complex phenomenon that involves changes in the brain chemistry. Repeated exposure to Black Tar Heroin and other opioids can lead to alterations in the brain that make it challenging to quit. Some of the reasons include:

Dopamine

The release of dopamine triggered by the use of Black Tar Heroin creates a potent incentive to continue using the drug. As the brain adapts to the presence of the drug, it develops tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

Availability and accessibility of the drug

The widespread availability and affordability of Black Tar Heroin pose a challenge for individuals to resist its use

Difficult Withdrawal

Black Tar Heroin can be unpleasant, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, and insomnia. These changes can cause intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms that can make quitting difficult.

Stigma and Shame

The shame and stigma associated with addiction can prevent people from seeking help and can make recovery more challenging.

Dangers Associated With Using Black Tar Heroin

The dangers associated with using Black Tar Heroin are numerous and severe. They may include:

Overdose

The drug can quickly lead to overdose and death, especially when mixed with other substances.

Increased risk of accidents and injuries

The sedative effects of the drug can also impair judgment and motor function, leading to accidents and injuries.

Criminal Behavior

Individuals with addiction may turn to criminal behavior to support their drug habits, leading to legal trouble and incarceration.

Ultimately, heroin use can have fatal consequences, making it crucial to seek help and support to overcome addiction.

Dangers Associated With Using Black Tar Heroin

Individuals with Black Tar Heroin addiction need to seek medical attention and support throughout the recovery process. In addition to any medication-assisted treatment, Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs can also provide intensive support and structure to help individuals overcome addiction.

It is also important for individuals to address any underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to their addiction.

With the right support and treatment, individuals can overcome Black Tar Heroin addiction and lead a fulfilling, sober life.

The Road to Recovery

Recovery from Black Tar Heroin addiction is not easy, but it is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it is important to take the first step towards recovery.

This may involve reaching out to a trusted healthcare professional or addiction treatment center to explore available treatment options. It is important to remember that recovery is a journey, and it may involve setbacks and challenges along the way. However, with the right support and resources, individuals can overcome addiction and lead fulfilling, healthy lives.

 We offer a range of treatment options, including medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapy, and support groups. Our experienced team of professionals is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to help you on your journey to recovery. Don’t wait any longer to seek help; contact us today to learn more about our services and start your path to a healthier, happier life. Call us at (844) 964-2770

Johnny Pickett

Patient Advocate

Jamie Nelson

Case Manager

Stephen Carmel

Co-Founder & CFO

I began my journey to recovery back in 2011 when i moved to California from New York.Along with my recovery and beginning a new way of life, I began to develop a heart for others struggling with sobriety.My journey to California was filled with many trials and lessons learned, but most of all, personal growth. I truly believe I would not have found success if I didn’t come to California.

I first opened an adult treatment center, California Prime Recovery(CPR) as a way to work with those struggling on a daily basis. Over the last 3 years, CPR has evolved into someting much more impactful and beautiful than i could’ve ever imagined. I have come to realize that my own happiness and growth depends on being involved in the lives of others in recovery. Helping people through recovery is a cornerstone of many 12 step programs, and it has become the most important aspect of personal life. Giving back to those still suffering is the only way not to lose what you have gained.

Throughout this journey, and by mentoring many adolescents, I realized i wanted to offer more to teens who were struggling just as i was. This is when i decided to start OC Revive. I had built many wonderful relationships throughout my professional journey and found two others who shared the same vision, and passion that i had for the youth. It didn’t take long for myself, Tyler Michaelis, and Derek Walsh to turn our dream into a reality. We are committed to providing the best possible treatment for adolescents and truly believe “their future is our collective responsibility”.

Derek Walsh

Co-Founder & COO

As Co-Founder & COO of OC Revive, Derek has a wealth of personal and professional experience dealing with the issues faced by today’s troubled teen. Throughout High School and College, Derek struggled with peer pressure, learning challenges, and substance abuse. Working with the support of family and friends, Derek set out to conquer those obstacles and find a richer, more fulfilling life.

On 15 October 2012, Derek overcame his own substance abuse problem and dedicated himself to help others work through their own addiction. A year later, Derek began a new journey and started his career in the recovery industry. Throughout his career, Derek has worked his way through numerous roles at top-rated treatment centers. While working at those treatment centers, Derek began to see a pattern that those struggling individuals would’ve benefited immensely from receiving earlier in life.

Derek decided that he wanted to be a part of the solution, and find a way to address those issues at an earlier age. He concluded that there needed to be interventions before adulthood, and he didn’t want to see anyone going through the same cycle that he did. That was when he and Tyler Michaelis decided to start OC Revive, to make sure teens get the help they need to find a purpose that leads them to a life of happiness and success.

Derek attended college at Orange Coast College and Santa Barbara City College.

Brittany Astrom

Clinical Supervisor

Brittany joins the OCR team with over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health adn Substance Abuse field. Brittany has been licensed for almost 8 years and has worked in various settings throughout her career, including inpatient psychiatric treatment, outpatient, residential treatment center, PHP and IOP settings. Brittany has been supervising Associate Marrige and Family Therapists and Associate Social Workers for almost 6 years and works in compiance and auditing to ensure that treatment centers are up to par with biling regulations. Brittany has worked with young adults and adolescents for most of her career.

Brittany earned her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at California Baptist International University. Brittany enjoys working with adolescents and young adults and believes that ever single person has the ability to set goals and meet them, even when they can’t see it themselves. Brittany loves spending time with her family, traveling, good coffee, and being outdoors.

Patrick R. Smith

Program Director

Patrick is a mental health and addiction professional who has a passion for recovery and helping others. He was inspired and encouraged by his mentors to work with individuals and families that have been affected by mental health issues, and alcohol and drug addiction. He has been working in the field of addiction recovery for 23+ years and is an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals. Patrick is also certified in Adult and Adolescent Anger Management. His career in addiction treatment began in 2001 at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage CA. as an Addiction Specialist working on the inpatient campus and is the co-creator of Betty Ford Center’s “Young Adult Track” specializing in work with 18-25-year-old Patients. He also excelled in working with addicted and impaired professionals in the “Relapse and Recovery Program”.

Patrick transitioned to Orange County in 2011 where he accepted a position as the Program Director for Orange County Recovery Services. Patrick is a gifted lecturer, group facilitator, and counselor with a passion for recovery who has been an active recovery member for over 25 years.

Anthony Fletcher

Director Of Business Development

Anthony is an Orange County local and has been a great addition to the Oc Revive team. Since 2015, Anthony has been working in the substance abuse field and has also pursued his drug and alcohol counseling license. Since being with Revive Anthony has established a relationship within the School Districts and serves as a voluntary speaker for substance abuse awareness in the community. By sharing his personal testimony, he has excelled in gaining trust and building rapport with others. He always seems to have a smile on his face and brings a positive vibe wherever he goes. With that being said, Anthony is very passionate about the work that he does and goes above and beyond to provide our struggling youth the care that they so desperately need.

Levi Sweet

Director of Operations

Brian Welsh

Director of Admissions

Chandra Medina

Lead Therapist

Kelly Pearson

Therapist

Christina Gherman

Therapist

Tyler Michaelis

Founder & CEO

Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.

April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.

In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families

Tylor Ramsey

Therapist

Patrick Fernandez-Her

AMFT Therapist

Steven Simon

Admissions

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Alejandro Alva, M.D.

Medical Director

Kayli Sullivan

Director of HR & Compliance

Carl Kutter

Operations Manager

Mustafa Stanizai

Case Manager

Allyson Lake

Case Manager

Ashley Becher

Admin Assistant

Kortnee Carralejo

Admissions

Madalyn Johnson

Case Manager

Matthew Lawler

Therapist - AMFT

Helen Riccobono

Therapist - AMFT

Rachel Dickinson

Therapist - AMFT

Max Howell

Case Manager

Leah Perle

Therapist

Angela Castellano

Case Manager

Tyler Michaelis

Founder & CEO

Tyler is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to teens and their families. Once a teenager that struggled with addiction, mental health, and poor choices, Tyler is aware of the growing demand and need for early intervention in adolescents and young adults. Growing up in Orange County, he battled addiction and peer pressure all throughout high school and during his time at Saddleback College. During those troubled years, Tyler’s parents and family were emotionally drained and heavily impacted by his addiction. Unfortunately, they did not know where to turn for help nor did they have the courage to set boundaries with him.After 7 painful years, they finally forced Tyler out of the house and into treatment at the age of 23.

April 5th, 2010 is a date that Tyler and his family hold dear. On that date, Tyler enrolled in a 4-month treatment program which laid the foundation for his recovery. With the help of treatment professionals, supportive friends and family, Tyler was able to build a better version of himself. This started with slowly building his self-esteem, and growing a community of peers to support him throughout recovery.

In 2011,with the desire to help others struggling with addiction, he decided to start working in the addiction field. Tyler obtained his CADAC || Counselor certification and graduated from Cal Sate University of Long Beach with a degree in Health Care Administration. Since then, Tyler has worked all areas of treatment starting as a detox technician and working his way up to Program Director. Today, Tyler feels blessed and grateful for getting a second chanse at life. He has a great relationship with his family, is happily married and has a great group of friends. Once a lost teen, Tyler now has purpose and passion. He’s dedicated his life’s work to helping teens and their families. As the Founder, Tyler Michaelis is confident that OC Revive will renew the lives of struggling teens while bringing back hope to their families