Heroin taking over

About 85 percent of Lycoming County Drug Court defendants are addicted to heroin. For every one addict who has found help in the system, there are 10 more who haven't yet been caught, according to James Schriner, a county probation officer. And the problem is getting worse.

In the first 11 months of the year, the West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission has treated 278 clients who identified heroin as their primary drug of choice. In 2011, they treated 173 heroin addicts in the same time period.

The drug, which is highly addictive and readily available, creates physical dependency in the user. The euphoric effect lures people from all walks of life, from high school students to the elderly.

"Addiction happens as readily to the wealthy and educated as it does to anyone. There is no stereotype for an addict," Jennifer Reeder, the commission's assistant director, said.

"There are a number of reasons people turn to drugs, such as curiosity and escape from life's problems, but ultimately they are all attempting to fill a void in their lives," said Reeder.

Once you're hooked, it's almost impossible to stop without help, Shriner explained.

Those who are concerned they may have a friend or family member using heroin should look for paraphernalia, such as syringes, orange syringe caps, and small 1-inch by 1-inch glassanine bags that may contain white or brown powder residue.

"Look for track marks on the arms," Shriner said. He added that many users will wear long sleeves, even when it is warm outside, to hide track marks and bruises.

However, track marks are not only found on the arms. Users can inject anywhere they find a vein.

"You'd be amazed some of the parts of the body people will inject at if they want to hide their use - anywhere and everywhere," Shriner said.

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Heroin taking over