Top 52 Slang For Doing Heroin – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to discussing sensitive topics like drug use, it’s important to approach the subject with care and knowledge. That’s why we’ve taken the time to compile a list of slang terms for doing heroin. By shedding light on these terms, we aim to provide a better understanding of the language surrounding this issue. Whether you’re looking to educate yourself or simply curious about the topic, we’ve got you covered with this informative listicle.

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1. Junking

This term refers to the act of using heroin. It is a slang term used to describe the act of injecting or ingesting the drug.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been junking for years and can’t seem to quit.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried junking?”
A news article might report, “The rise in junking has led to an increase in overdose deaths.”

2. Chasing the dragon

This phrase describes the act of inhaling the smoke produced when heroin is heated on a piece of foil. It is a method of using the drug that produces a quick and intense high.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been chasing the dragon all night.”
In a conversation about different ways to use heroin, a person might mention, “Some people prefer chasing the dragon over injecting.”
A drug counselor might warn, “Chasing the dragon can lead to serious health problems and addiction.”

3. Dope fiend

This term is used to describe someone who is addicted to heroin. It conveys the idea of a person who is consumed by their addiction and constantly seeking their next fix.

For example, someone might say, “He’s a dope fiend, always looking for his next high.”
In a discussion about the dangers of heroin, a person might mention, “Dope fiends often resort to desperate measures to feed their addiction.”
A news article might report, “The city is facing an increasing number of dope fiends seeking treatment.”

4. Horse

This term is a common street name for heroin. It likely originated from the association of heroin with the powerful and majestic animal.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been using horse for years.”
In a conversation about different types of drugs, a person might mention, “Horse is highly addictive and dangerous.”
A law enforcement officer might report, “We confiscated a large amount of horse during the drug bust.”

5. Smack

This term is another slang name for heroin. It is often used in urban settings and among drug users.

For example, someone might say, “He’s hooked on smack.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug use, a person might mention, “Smack is a highly potent and addictive drug.”
A news article might report, “The city is experiencing a rise in smack-related crimes.”

6. H

H is a slang term for heroin, a highly addictive and illegal opioid drug. It is derived from the first letter of the word “heroin”.

For example, someone might say, “He’s hooked on H.”
In a conversation about drug abuse, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried H?”
A news article might mention, “The police seized a large quantity of H in a drug bust.”

7. Skag

Skag is a slang term for heroin. It is often used in a derogatory manner to refer to the drug.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s addicted to skag.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug use, a person might warn, “Stay away from skag.”
A news report might state, “The police arrested a skag dealer in a drug raid.”

8. Brown sugar

Brown sugar is a slang term for heroin. It is derived from the brown color and powdery texture of the drug.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been using brown sugar for years.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried brown sugar?”
A documentary about drug abuse might mention, “The film explores the devastating effects of brown sugar addiction.”

9. Boy

Boy is a slang term for heroin. It is often used to refer to the drug in a casual or nonchalant manner.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been chasing the boy for a while.”
In a discussion about the opioid epidemic, a person might comment, “Boy addiction is a serious problem.”
A book about drug culture might mention, “The protagonist falls into the dark world of boy addiction.”

10. White horse

White horse is a slang term for heroin. It is derived from the white color and powdered form of the drug.

For example, someone might say, “He’s riding the white horse.”
In a conversation about drug rehabilitation, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried to quit the white horse?”
A song about drug addiction might include lyrics like, “I can’t escape the white horse’s grip.”

11. Harry

This term is a slang for heroin. It is commonly used to refer to the drug in a discreet manner.

For example, “He’s been hooked on Harry for years.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, someone might say, “She’s struggling with her Harry addiction.”
A person discussing the dangers of drug use might warn, “Stay away from Harry, it can ruin your life.”

12. Big H

This slang term is used to refer to heroin, emphasizing its potency or strength.

For instance, “He’s been using Big H for a while now.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug addiction, someone might say, “Big H is a highly addictive substance.”
A person warning others about the risks of drug use might say, “Don’t be fooled by the allure of Big H, it can destroy your life.”

13. Diesel

This term is a slang for heroin. It is often used to refer to a specific type or form of the drug.

For example, “He’s been hooked on Diesel for years.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, someone might say, “The use of Diesel has been on the rise.”
A person discussing the dangers of drug use might warn, “Don’t underestimate the power of Diesel, it can lead to overdose.”

14. Dope

This term is a slang for heroin. It is a common street name for the drug.

For instance, “He’s been using Dope for a long time.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, someone might say, “Dope is a highly addictive substance.”
A person warning others about the risks of drug use might say, “Stay away from Dope, it can ruin your life.”

15. Scag

This term is a slang for heroin. It is often used to refer to the drug in a derogatory or negative manner.

For example, “He’s been hooked on Scag for years.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, someone might say, “Scag is a dangerous substance.”
A person discussing the dangers of drug use might warn, “Avoid Scag at all costs, it can destroy your life.”

16. Snow

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “snow” is often used to refer to cocaine. It is called “snow” due to its white, powdery appearance.

For example, someone might say, “He’s not into heroin, but he loves a little snow now and then.”
In a conversation about drug use, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried snow?”
A user might caution, “Be careful with snow, it can be highly addictive.”

17. Smackie

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “smackie” is a term used to refer to a person who uses heroin. It is derived from the slang term “smack” which is another word for heroin.

For instance, someone might say, “He used to be a smackie, but he’s been clean for years.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, a person might ask, “Do you know any smackies who have successfully recovered?”
A user might share their experience, “I was a smackie for a long time before I sought help.”

18. Boyfriend

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “boyfriend” is used as a code word for heroin. This term is often used to discreetly discuss heroin use.

For example, someone might say, “I need to meet my boyfriend tonight,” referring to their intention to obtain heroin.
In a conversation about drug addiction, a person might ask, “Have you ever had a boyfriend?”
A user might warn, “Don’t get involved with a boyfriend, it can ruin your life.”

19. Girlfriend

Similar to “boyfriend,” in the context of slang for doing heroin, “girlfriend” is used as a code word for heroin. It is often used to discreetly discuss heroin use.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m going out with my girlfriend tonight,” referring to their intention to use heroin.
In a discussion about drug addiction, a person might ask, “Do you know anyone with a girlfriend?”
A user might advise, “Stay away from a girlfriend, it will only bring you trouble.”

20. Lover

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “lover” is used as a euphemism for heroin. It implies a strong attachment or dependence on the drug.

For example, someone might say, “I can’t live without my lover,” referring to their addiction to heroin.
In a conversation about drug abuse, a person might ask, “Have you ever had a lover?”
A user might express their struggle, “Breaking up with my lover was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.”

21. Mr. Brownstone

This term is derived from a song by the band Guns N’ Roses, which describes the drug as a “brownstone” in the lyrics. It is a slang term for heroin, specifically referring to the brown or tan color of the drug.

For example, someone might say, “He’s addicted to Mr. Brownstone.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, one might mention, “Mr. Brownstone is a dangerous and addictive drug.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I struggled with Mr. Brownstone addiction for years.”

22. Mr. White

This term is derived from the character “Mr. White” in the movie “Reservoir Dogs” who is portrayed as a heroin user. It is a slang term for heroin, specifically referring to the white or off-white color of the drug.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s hooked on Mr. White.”
In a conversation about drug abuse, one might mention, “Mr. White is a highly addictive substance.”
A person sharing their story might say, “I hit rock bottom because of my addiction to Mr. White.”

23. Mr. Black

This term is derived from the character “Mr. Black” in the movie “Reservoir Dogs” who is portrayed as a heroin user. It is a slang term for heroin, specifically referring to the black or dark color of the drug.

For example, someone might say, “He’s addicted to Mr. Black.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug use, one might mention, “Mr. Black can have devastating effects on a person’s life.”
A person sharing their struggle might say, “I lost everything because of my addiction to Mr. Black.”

24. Lady H

This term is a slang term for heroin, specifically referring to the drug’s addictive and alluring nature. The term “lady” is often used to describe drugs that have a seductive or captivating effect on users.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s under the spell of Lady H.”
In a conversation about the impact of drug addiction, one might mention, “Lady H can destroy lives.”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I fell into the trap of Lady H and lost everything.”

25. Lady Snow

This term is a slang term for heroin, specifically referring to the drug’s white or off-white color. The term “lady” is often used to describe drugs that have a seductive or captivating effect on users.

For example, someone might say, “He’s hooked on Lady Snow.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug abuse, one might mention, “Lady Snow is a highly addictive substance.”
A person sharing their story might say, “I struggled with the allure of Lady Snow for years.”

26. Lady White

Lady White is a slang term for heroin. It refers to the white color of the drug in its powdered form. This term is often used in drug-related discussions or among users.

For example, someone might say, “I heard she’s into Lady White.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, a person might mention, “Lady White is a dangerous substance that can ruin lives.”
A user might ask, “Where can I find Lady White in this city?”

27. Lady Brown

Lady Brown is a slang term for heroin. It refers to the brown color of the drug in its powdered or solid form. This term is often used in drug-related discussions or among users.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been hooked on Lady Brown for years.”
In a conversation about the dangers of drug use, a person might warn, “Lady Brown can have devastating effects on your health.”
A user might ask, “What’s the difference between Lady White and Lady Brown?”

28. Lady Black

Lady Black is a slang term for heroin. It refers to the black color of the drug in its tar-like form. This term is often used in drug-related discussions or among users.

For example, someone might say, “I heard he’s been using Lady Black.”
In a conversation about the consequences of drug addiction, a person might mention, “Lady Black can destroy your life.”
A user might ask, “What are the risks associated with using Lady Black?”

29. Lady D

Lady D is a slang term for heroin. The “D” stands for “diamorphine,” which is the scientific name for heroin. This term is often used in drug-related discussions or among users.

For instance, someone might say, “She’s addicted to Lady D.”
In a conversation about the opioid crisis, a person might discuss, “The dangers of Lady D addiction.”
A user might ask, “What are the withdrawal symptoms of Lady D?”

30. Lady Horse

Lady Horse is a slang term for heroin. It refers to the powerful and addictive nature of the drug, comparing it to the strength and endurance of a horse. This term is often used in drug-related discussions or among users.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been riding the Lady Horse for years.”
In a conversation about the impact of heroin addiction, a person might mention, “The grip of Lady Horse is hard to break.”
A user might ask, “How can someone quit using Lady Horse?”

31. Lady Smack

Lady Smack is a slang term for heroin, a highly addictive and illegal drug derived from morphine. It is typically sold as a white or brown powder or as a sticky black substance known as black tar heroin.

For example, a person might say, “He got caught with a bag of lady smack.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, someone might mention, “Lady smack is one of the most dangerous drugs out there.”
A news article might warn, “The use of lady smack has been on the rise in recent years, leading to a public health crisis.”

32. Lady Junk

Lady Junk is another slang term for heroin. It is a play on words, using “junk” as a common term for drugs and “lady” to refer to heroin.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s hooked on lady junk.”
In a conversation about drug abuse, a person might ask, “Have you ever tried lady junk?”
A documentary about addiction might feature a segment on “the dangers of lady junk.”

33. Chiva

Chiva is a slang term for heroin, particularly used in Spanish-speaking communities. It is derived from the Spanish word for “goat” and is often used as a code word to discuss heroin without arousing suspicion.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been using chiva for years.”
In a conversation about drug trafficking, a person might mention, “Chiva is a common drug smuggled across the border.”
A news report might state, “Authorities seized a large quantity of chiva in a major drug bust.”

34. Hell dust

Hell dust is a slang term for heroin. It is a reference to the intense and addictive properties of the drug, which can lead to a downward spiral into addiction and despair.

For instance, a person might say, “He’s been snorting hell dust for months.”
In a discussion about the dangers of drug use, someone might warn, “Stay away from hell dust – it can ruin your life.”
A recovery support group might discuss strategies for overcoming the grip of hell dust addiction.

35. Mexican horse

Mexican horse is a slang term for heroin, often used in the context of drug trafficking or the origin of the drug. It refers to heroin that is produced in Mexico and smuggled into other countries.

For example, a person might say, “The streets are flooded with Mexican horse.”
In a conversation about drug cartels, someone might mention, “Mexican horse is a major source of revenue for the cartels.”
A news article might report, “Authorities intercepted a shipment of Mexican horse destined for a major city.”

36. Dragon

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “dragon” is a term used to refer to heroin itself. It is likely derived from the idea of chasing the dragon, which refers to the act of inhaling heroin smoke.

For example, someone might say, “I can’t believe he’s still using the dragon after all these years.”
In a discussion about drug addiction, a person might mention, “The dragon has a tight grip on his life.”
A news article might use the term in a headline like, “Police seize large quantity of dragon in drug bust.”

37. Smurf

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “smurf” is a term used to describe a person who buys pseudoephedrine, a common ingredient in the production of methamphetamine, for someone else. The term can be used metaphorically to refer to someone who assists in obtaining drugs, including heroin.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s a smurf for the local drug dealer.”
In a conversation about drug trafficking, a person might mention, “Smurfs play a crucial role in the illegal drug trade.”
A news report might use the term in a headline like, “Police arrest smurf in drug conspiracy.”

38. Smurfing

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “smurfing” is a term used to describe the act of assisting in drug transactions, particularly those involving the purchase of pseudoephedrine for the production of methamphetamine. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to assisting in obtaining drugs, including heroin.

For example, someone might say, “He was caught smurfing for the local drug ring.”
In a discussion about drug enforcement, a person might mention, “Smurfing is a criminal offense with serious consequences.”
A news report might use the term in a headline like, “Authorities crack down on smurfing in drug trade.”

39. Junkie

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “junkie” is a derogatory term used to describe a person who is addicted to drugs, particularly heroin. The term implies a lack of control or a desperate need for the drug.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s been a junkie for years and can’t seem to get clean.”
In a conversation about drug rehabilitation, a person might mention, “Support groups provide a lifeline for recovering junkies.”
A news article might use the term in a headline like, “Local junkie arrested for drug possession.”

40. Chasing the white rabbit

In the context of slang for doing heroin, “chasing the white rabbit” is a phrase used to describe the act of using heroin. It is a reference to the character Alice in Wonderland, who follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole, embarking on a surreal and unpredictable journey.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been chasing the white rabbit for years and can’t break free.”
In a conversation about drug addiction, a person might mention, “Chasing the white rabbit leads to a dark and dangerous path.”
A news report might use the phrase in a headline like, “Local man arrested for chasing the white rabbit.”

41. Tar

This term refers to a specific type of heroin that is sticky, dark, and resembles black tar. It is typically produced in Mexico and is known for its high impurity and low cost.

For example, a user might say, “I scored some tar last night and it hit me hard.”
In a discussion about different forms of heroin, someone might ask, “Has anyone tried black tar? What’s the difference?”
A person sharing their experience might say, “I started with powder heroin, but eventually switched to tar because it was cheaper.”

42. Smashing

This slang term is used to describe the act of injecting heroin into the veins using a syringe. It refers to the forceful action of pushing the drug into the bloodstream.

For instance, a user might say, “I was smashing heroin all night, and now I feel completely numb.”
In a conversation about different methods of heroin use, someone might ask, “Do you prefer smoking or smashing?”
A person sharing their struggle with addiction might say, “I can’t stop smashing heroin, and it’s ruining my life.”

43. Chasing the horse

This slang phrase is used to describe the act of using heroin. It is derived from the image of a person constantly chasing after the effects of the drug, similar to a person trying to catch a running horse.

For example, a user might say, “I’ve been chasing the horse for years, and I can’t seem to quit.”
In a discussion about addiction, someone might ask, “How long have you been chasing the horse?”
A person sharing their recovery journey might say, “I finally stopped chasing the horse and found a better life.”

44. Chasing the brown

This slang phrase is used to describe the act of using heroin. It specifically refers to the brown color of the drug, which is often associated with lower purity compared to white or off-white heroin.

For instance, a user might say, “I’ve been chasing the brown for months, and I can’t kick the habit.”
In a conversation about different types of heroin, someone might ask, “Have you ever tried chasing the brown?”
A person sharing their struggles might say, “I started with chasing the brown, but eventually switched to a cleaner form of heroin.”

45. Chasing the dragon’s tail

This slang phrase is used to describe the act of smoking heroin. It refers to the image of a person chasing the smoke as it rises from the heated heroin, similar to chasing the tail of a dragon.

For example, a user might say, “I spent the night chasing the dragon’s tail and got lost in the high.”
In a discussion about different methods of heroin use, someone might ask, “Have you ever tried chasing the dragon’s tail?”
A person sharing their experience might say, “Chasing the dragon’s tail was my preferred method of using heroin, but it led me down a dangerous path.”

46. Chasing the ghost

This phrase refers to the act of constantly pursuing the euphoric feeling that comes with using heroin. It implies that the user is always trying to recreate that initial high, even though it becomes increasingly difficult to achieve.

For example, “He’s been chasing the ghost for years, but he can never quite reach it.”
In a support group, someone might share, “I’ve spent so much of my life chasing the ghost, always searching for that next hit.”
A recovering addict might reflect, “Chasing the ghost led me down a dark path of addiction and despair.”

47. Chasing the tiger

This expression refers to the relentless pursuit of the intense rush and pleasure that comes with using heroin. It suggests that the user is willing to take risks and face the dangerous consequences of their addiction.

For instance, “He’s been chasing the tiger for years, and it’s only led him to destruction.”
In a conversation about addiction, someone might say, “I know what it’s like to chase the tiger, always craving that next hit.”
A counselor might warn, “Chasing the tiger is a dangerous game that can lead to devastating consequences.”

48. Chasing the shadow

This phrase describes the constant pursuit of the euphoric feeling that comes with using heroin. It implies that the user is always chasing after the fleeting sensation, similar to chasing shadows that can never be caught.

For example, “She’s been chasing the shadow for years, always trying to recapture that initial high.”
In a therapy session, someone might share, “Chasing the shadow consumed my life, and I lost everything because of it.”
A recovering addict might reflect, “Chasing the shadow only led me deeper into addiction and despair.”

49. Chasing the dragon’s breath

This expression refers to the act of pursuing the intense and fleeting euphoria that comes with using heroin. It implies that the user is chasing after something mythical and unattainable, similar to chasing the breath of a mythical dragon.

For instance, “He’s been chasing the dragon’s breath, always seeking that ultimate high.”
In a support group, someone might share, “Chasing the dragon’s breath nearly cost me my life.”
A counselor might warn, “Chasing the dragon’s breath is a dangerous game that can lead to overdose and death.”

50. Brown

This term is a common street name for heroin, referring to the brown color of the drug. It is often used in drug-related conversations and discussions.

For example, “He’s hooked on brown and can’t seem to break free from its grip.”
In a news report about drug busts, a reporter might mention, “Authorities seized a large quantity of brown in a raid.”
A recovering addict might say, “I used to be addicted to brown, but I’ve been clean for five years now.”

51. Number 3

Number 3 is a term used to refer to heroin base, which is a type of heroin that is usually smoked. It is called “number 3” because it is the third step in the production process of heroin. This form of heroin is typically found in Europe and Southeast Asia.

For example, a drug user might say, “I prefer smoking number 3 because it gives me a quicker and more intense high.”
In a discussion about different forms of heroin, someone might ask, “What’s the difference between number 3 and number 4?”
A news article might mention, “Law enforcement seized a large amount of number 3 heroin in a recent drug bust.”

52. Number 4

Number 4 is a term used to refer to heroin hydrochloride, which is a type of heroin that is usually injected. It is called “number 4” because it is the fourth step in the production process of heroin. This form of heroin is typically found in North America.

For instance, a drug user might say, “I only shoot up number 4 heroin.”
In a conversation about the dangers of heroin use, someone might mention, “Number 4 heroin is highly potent and can lead to overdose.”
A documentary about drug addiction might discuss the prevalence of number 4 heroin in urban areas.