How Does Heroin Impact Weight?

Ongoing heroin use can contribute to a number of negative health problems, including weight loss. 

In the short term, people using heroin may be neglecting to eat healthily or even at all, which can lead to acute dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. In addition, heroin exerts its influence on the GI tract, often leading to constipation, nausea and vomiting which can in turn cause decreased appetite and weight loss. [ 2] In some cases, constipation can be so extreme it can lead to GI tract obstruction, which can be life threatening and require hospitalization or surgery.[3] 

Long term, people who are not eating due to drug use can lose weight and eventually even muscle mass, leading to chronic malnutrition. [1] Rapid and extreme weight loss can lead to the following complications: 

• Pituitary gland malfunction: The pituitary gland is a small endocrine gland found at the base of the brain. It is responsible for regulating several hormones in the body, including those that control appetite, metabolism and growth. Heroin use and rapid weight loss can disrupt the normal functioning of the pituitary gland, leading to hormonal imbalances and changes in the regulation of hunger and metabolism.[4]

• Electrolyte imbalances: In heroine users, electrolyte imbalances as a result of dehydration and malnutrition can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and even death. 

• Vitamin Deficiencies: Weight loss and chronic malnutrition in patients with heroin use can cause vitamin deficiencies that lead to a number of other complications such as increased risk of bleeding, bone mineral density loss, etc. 

• Muscle loss (Sarcopenia): Muscle loss can lead to fatigue, deconditioning, increased risk of falls and injury 

• Chronic health problems: Damage to the liver, heart and other organs is common with heroin use.[5]  

• Mental and emotional co-morbidities: Rapid weight loss can lead to abnormal hormonal regulation, including decreased dopamine and serotonin, both of which are necessary for normal mood regulation. Consequently, malnourished patients can experience mood changes, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. 

Improved Quality of Life Begins With Treatment for OUD

At Bicycle Health, we know that recovering from long-term heroin use starts with addressing the underlying physical dependence on the drug. With Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT), we can help you to begin the process of easing into recovery at your own pace and on your terms as you take back control of your life. 

If you are interested in learning more about how we can help you, contact us at Bicycle Health today.