As a nervous system depressant, this opioid can produce a rush of euphoria, confidence, and energy, as well as cardiovascular stress, suspiciousness, and a depressive crash.

• A. Oxycodone
• B. Heroin
• C. Codeine
• D. Fentanyl

Answer: (B)

Heroin is the opioid most associated with a rapid onset “rush” of euphoria, along with a feeling of confidence and energy, followed by a depressive crash as the effects wear off. As a nervous system depressant, it slows brain activity and respiration, but the initial high comes with a surge of dopamine-related pleasure that many describe as a rush. After that high, withdrawal or the drop in drug effect brings dysphoria, strong cravings, and autonomic symptoms such as increased heart rate and blood pressure—often labeled as a depressive crash with cardiovascular stress. While other opioids can cause euphoria, this strong, fast-appearing rush plus the pronounced crash pattern is most characteristically linked to heroin.