Question

Which of the following is true about Heroin originating from South-West Asia ? A. Brown in colour
B. Soluble in organic solvents
C. Soluble in water
D. White powder in the form of hydrochloride salt
E. Injected by first solubilising in ascorbic acid or citric acid
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A, B and C Only
• B. B, C and D Only
• C. A, D and E Only
• D. A, B and E Only

Hint:

Brown heroin (SW Asia) = base form, needs acid to dissolve before injection.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Heroin from different regions varies in chemical form and physical characteristics. South-West Asian heroin is commonly known as “brown heroin” or base form.

Step 1: Colour (A).
South-West Asian heroin is typically brown due to impurities and incomplete refinement.
Thus, A is correct.

Step 2: Solubility in organic solvents (B).
Heroin base is more soluble in organic solvents rather than water.
Thus, B is correct.

Step 3: Water solubility (C).
Base form heroin is not readily soluble in water unless converted to a salt.
Thus, C is incorrect.

Step 4: Hydrochloride salt (D).
White powdered heroin hydrochloride is typically associated with South-East Asian heroin, not South-West Asian.
Thus, D is incorrect.

Step 5: Injection preparation (E).
Brown heroin is commonly dissolved using acids like citric or ascorbic acid before injection.
Thus, E is correct.

Step 6: Final evaluation.
Correct statements are A, B, and E. Final Conclusion:
Hence, the correct answer is option (4).