Heroin detox is a process that involves purging the semi-synthetic opioid and its toxic metabolites from the system, ideally under medical supervision. Detoxing from heroin is associated with the presentation of intensely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
For many people struggling with heroin addiction, the fear of withdrawal acts as a significant barrier to breaking free from their addiction. In some cases, this fear prevents them from even considering addiction treatment, even though evidence-based treatments are proven effective for treating opioid use disorder (heroin addiction).
Thankfully, the ordeal of withdrawal and detox can be made more manageable with medical intervention. Read on to discover how to detox from heroin by engaging in an inpatient detox program followed by ongoing treatment in Ohio.
Heroin Detox Symptoms
Regular use of heroin prompts the brain to adapt, resulting in the development of both tolerance (where higher heroin doses are needed to achieve the same effects) and physiological dependence. Dependence on heroin is marked by withdrawal symptoms that manifest when someone reduces their intake or discontinues usage altogether. While withdrawal symptoms are not typically life-threatening, they can be aggravating and painful, rendering it challenging for many people to break their heroin addiction without professional help.
Withdrawal is characterized by a specific set of symptoms that occur when someone stops using a substance to which their body has become dependent – heroin, for example. The withdrawal symptoms associated with all opioids are similar, although the onset, duration, and presentation of symptoms can vary significantly. These differences are influenced by factors that include the specific opioid(s) used, the dosage and duration of use, concurrent use of other addictive substances, and the interval between doses.
Common heroin detox symptoms may include both physical and psychological symptoms.
Physical symptoms
These are the most common physical symptoms associated with detoxing from heroin:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping and muscle aches
- Sweating and chills
- Excessive yawning
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Rapid heartbeat and increased blood pressure
- Tremors and shaking
Psychological symptoms
Psychological symptoms that may manifest during a detox for heroin include:
- Intense drug cravings
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Irritability and mood swings
- Depression and feelings of hopelessness
- Insomnia and disturbances in sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
- Agitation and increased sensitivity to stimuli
Heroin Detox Timeline
How long does it take to detox from heroin, then? The heroin withdrawal timeline differs from person to person, contingent on variables such as the person’s physical health status, the duration of heroin use, the amount of heroin consumed, and whether other substances were used alongside heroin. This is a general outline of the stages and timeline of heroin withdrawal:
Early withdrawal symptoms (within 6 to 12 hours after the last dose)
Initial symptoms may include cravings for opioids, anxiety, restlessness, and aching muscles.
Many people detoxing heroin also experience symptoms like teary eyes, runny nose, excessive yawning, and sweating.
Peak withdrawal symptoms (within 1 to 3 days)
The most intense symptoms typically occur within the first 3 days of detox and may include severe muscle aches, abdominal cramping, nausea, and vomiting. Psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and drug cravings can also peak during this time.
Gradual improvement (3 to 5 days)
Physical symptoms gradually begin to subside, although some discomfort may persist. Some people may experience reduced abdominal cramping, muscle aches, and sweating.
Psychological symptoms may still linger, including mood swings, insomnia, and cravings, although they tend to become less severe.
PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) – several weeks to months
Some people detoxing from heroin may experience a protracted withdrawal phase that is clinically described as PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome). PAWS can last for weeks or months after the last use of heroin. The symptoms associated with PAWS include persistent psychological effects like depression, anxiety, and intense cravings, along with difficulty concentrating and disrupted sleep patterns. Seeking professional medical help and support during this period can significantly improve the management of symptoms and increase the likelihood of successful long-term recovery from heroin addiction.
Heroin Detox Treatment
Heroin detoxification is the first vital step in the treatment of heroin addiction. It aims to manage the acute physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms while preparing individuals for ongoing addiction treatment. The most effective heroin detox treatment usually involves a combination of medical intervention, psychological support, and behavioral therapy.
MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
Medications approved by the FDA to treat opioid use disorder include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. These medications may be prescribed to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. MAT is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to manage the physical aspects of heroin detoxification.
Medical monitoring and support
Medical professionals closely monitor individuals undergoing detox to ensure their safety and manage any potential complications that may arise during the withdrawal process. Monitoring vital signs, managing dehydration, and addressing any severe symptoms are key components of medical support during detox.
Psychological support and counseling
Behavioral therapies, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and CM (contingency management), are frequently indicated to address the psychological aspects of heroin addiction. These therapies help individuals understand the underlying triggers of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and learn healthier behaviors to prevent relapse. When MAT is employed to treat heroin addiction, it is always most effective when blended with psychotherapies like CBT.
Support groups and peer counseling
Participating in support groups like NA (Narcotics Anonymous) can provide people battling heroin addiction with a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who have lived experience of opioid addiction can provide encouragement, guidance, and a sense of belonging during the challenging detoxification process.
Holistic therapies and wellness practices
Incorporating holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness meditation, and art therapy can help individuals manage stress, improve emotional well-being, and promote overall wellness during detox and recovery.
Aftercare planning
Developing a comprehensive aftercare plan helps people to maintain long-term abstinence from heroin after detox. This plan may include continued therapy, support group participation, ongoing medical monitoring, and lifestyle changes to support a drug-free and healthy lifestyle.
Successful heroin detox treatment, then, is often part of a broader, long-term addiction treatment program that addresses the complex physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. It is important to seek professional guidance and support to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Get Treatment for Heroin Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers
At Ohio Recovery Centers, we are dedicated to providing tailored addiction treatment programs specifically designed to address heroin addiction.
Studies indicate that both mild and moderate heroin addictions can be effectively managed through intensive outpatient treatment, which offers the same level of success as residential rehabilitation. Our outpatient treatment is not only flexible but also more cost-effective, ensuring that you receive the necessary care without financial strain. Select from our comprehensive programs available at our Cincinnati facility:
- IOPs (intensive outpatient programs)
- Outpatient programs
All of our addiction treatment programs at Ohio Recovery Centers integrate a personalized mix of science-backed treatments, and include a robust aftercare component. For immediate assistance, please reach out to our admissions team today at 877-679-2132.
