Black tar heroin

As in homebake heroin in Australia and New Zealand the crude acetylation results in a gelatinous mass.

Black tar as a type holds a variable admixture of morphine derivatives—predominantly 6-MAM (6-monoacetylmorphine), which is another result of crude acetylation.

It has a varying consistency depending on manufacturing methods, cutting agents, and moisture levels, from tarry goo in the unrefined form to a uniform, light-brown powder when further processed and cut with a variety of agents.

Black tar heroin's unique appearance and texture are due to its acetylation without the benefit of the usual reflux apparatus.

[6] The most common adulterant is lactose,[7] which is added to tar via dissolving of both substances in a liquid medium, reheating and filtering, and then recrystallizing.

Since the final stage of black tar heroin production would kill any spores (a combination of high temperature and strong acid), contamination is likely due to choice of cutting agent.

Any joint can be infected, though previous studies have shown that the knee and hip are most commonly affected in heroin injectors.