'A fully developed history, psychology, physiology, and pharmacology of heroin addiction.' -David E. Smith, M.D., Founder, President, and Medical Director, Haight Ashbury Free Clinics, Inc., and Richard B. Seymour, M.A., Managing Editor, "Journal of Psychoactive Drugs " 'Recommended reading for both the general public and addiction treatment professionals, providing a wealth of valuable information in understanding heroin addiction and treatment.' -Mark Parrino, M.P.A., President, American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence An up-to-the-minute, comprehensive examination of heroin's history, pharmacology, psychology, and sociology, "Heroin" offers a spellbinding account of the drug's power and persistent allure, its medicinal benefits, and its destructive nature. This updated and expanded second edition provides new research into heroin's effects on the brain, changing attitudes and policies about methadone and medications, and different approaches to treating heroin addicts. Included are studies of violence along the U.S.-Mexican border-which has put heroin trafficking in the spotlight-as well as a focus on how the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have made opium a valuable commodity and a major source of funds for terrorists. Animated with vivid personal stories and vignettes, "Heroin" puts a human face on the long and complex story behind this notorious drug. Written for professionals and serious lay readers by nationally recognized experts, the books in The Library of Addictive Drugs series feature in-depth, comprehensive, and up-to-date information on the most commonly abused mood-altering substances.