Opioid addiction: afeem, doda, smack, heroin
अफ़ीम, डोडा पोस्त, स्मैक, हेरोइन
Opioid addiction is common in Rajasthan — from traditional afeem and doda post to smack and heroin. Withdrawal is very uncomfortable, which is why people keep using.
Modern medicines make withdrawal comfortable and can keep a person stable for the long term.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Body ache, yawning, runny nose, goose bumps on stopping
- Loose motions, sleeplessness, restlessness
- Needing it daily to 'work normally'
- Increasing dose and spending
- Injecting drugs (high risk of HIV/hepatitis)
- Constipation, weight loss, low sexual desire
Causes
- Traditional/social use of afeem and doda at functions
- Use for pain, hard labour or long-distance driving
- Peer influence among youth (smack/heroin)
Risk factors
- Easy availability of afeem and doda post in social settings
- Using opioids for pain, fatigue or to work long hours
- Injecting drug use
How it is diagnosed
- History of the type of opioid, route, daily quantity and withdrawal
- Urine drug test when needed; tests for HIV, hepatitis B and C after injecting
Classification: ICD-10 F11 · ICD-11 6C43
Treatment options
- 1Comfortable detox with medicines that control withdrawal
- 2Opioid substitution therapy for long-term stability when suitable
- 3Anti-craving medicines to prevent relapse after detox
- 4HIV, hepatitis B/C screening for injecting users
- 5Counselling, family support and regular follow-up
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Relapse-prevention counselling and lifestyle restructuring
- Family counselling and vocational support
Guidance for family
- Learn the signs of overdose: very slow breathing, blue lips, cannot be woken — call 112
- After a period of abstinence, tolerance drops and the old dose can be fatal
When to see a psychiatrist
- Daily use or withdrawal on stopping
- Any injecting drug use
- Overdose signs: unconscious, slow breathing, blue lips — call 112
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is substitution therapy just replacing one addiction with another?
No. It is a prescribed, controlled medicine that stops craving and withdrawal without the 'high', allowing a normal life. It is recommended by WHO.
Can elderly people who take afeem for years be treated?
Yes — with slower, gentle tapering and attention to other illnesses.
Will anyone else find out about my treatment?
No. Treatment is confidential under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Information is not shared with employers, police or anyone else without your consent.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.