These packages contained approximately 15 or 30 gm. of either grey or pink-brown granules. The colour was not an indication of composition. For the past three and a half years in Amsterdam the Department of Pharmacy, University Hospital, Wilhemina Gasthuis has been analysing heroin samples for treatment centres in the city. Subsequent seizures of illicit heroin have shown upon analysis a similar pattern. We were of the opinion that these mixtures were prepared in the country of origin and further, that the heroin was not diluted for profit but was prepared for some method of use other than by injection.
Injection is the usual method of administration by addicts in the Netherlands.
Also information was requested about the methods of use of this material in the countries contacted. Another reply reported familiarity with granualar heroin but the composition and colours were quite different from the heroin seized in Amsterdam and strychnine had never been detected. The granules that you describe are similar to those which are made in Hong Kong. Here they are known as No. 3 heroin. Pharmacological data could not be found to assess the effects of injecting solutions of these heroin mixtures.