In 2016, over 11 million people in the United States used opioids without a prescription. Many of them became dependent on the drugs and went through withdrawal when they tried to quit.
Although opioid overdose poses the greatest danger, withdrawal is also a serious concern, particularly for those beginning treatment to stop opioid use.
Regular opioid use can lead your body to develop tolerance and physical dependence, causing individuals to continue using the drugs just to avoid the painful and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Although the physical and mental symptoms of opioid withdrawal can be difficult and uncomfortable, they are generally not life-threatening like those from alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal. Still, it’s important to recognize what opioid withdrawal looks like and when it typically occurs.
Opioid withdrawal symptoms can differ depending on usage patterns, individual health, and the time since the last dose. Common withdrawal symptoms often include:
Those using short-acting opioids typically experience withdrawal symptoms sooner, with initial signs appearing around 6 to 12 hours after their last dose.
Withdrawal from long-acting opioids takes longer to begin, with initial symptoms usually appearing around 24 to 30 hours after the last dose.
No matter the type of opioid, withdrawal symptoms typically reach their peak around 72 hours after the last use.
Opioid addiction treatment is most effective in a professional medical setting, where healthcare providers can offer comprehensive care that includes medication, counseling, and ongoing support.
According to SAMHSA, “Detoxification is a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal. It involves clearing toxins from the body of a patient who is acutely intoxicated and/or dependent on substances of abuse, with the goal of minimizing the physical harm caused by substance use.”
Opioid detox starts with a medical assessment, where clinicians review the client’s history, including drug use, family background, and personal health. Using this information, they create a tailored treatment plan to guide the client safely through opioid detox.
Once the evaluation is finished, clients enter detox and are closely monitored by medical staff. As withdrawal symptoms develop, the team provides care to manage them safely and ensure the client’s well-being.
After completing an opioid detox program, clients are most likely to maintain long-term sobriety by participating in aftercare. This may involve staying at an inpatient rehab facility or attending weekly support groups, depending on the individual’s specific needs.
Aftercare is crucial for all addictions, but it is particularly important for opioid users. Prolonged or heavy opioid use can chemically alter the brain, making recovery more challenging and requiring strong commitment. As a result, around 35% of clients who complete opioid detox move on to additional treatment.
Inpatient detox takes place in a residential or hospital setting, where clients stay at the facility for several days and are discharged once their withdrawal symptoms have subsided.
Outpatient detox occurs in a doctor’s office, where withdrawal symptoms are monitored and treatment plans are adjusted as needed. It is typically suited for less severe cases.
Several medications are proven to help manage withdrawal symptoms and support sobriety. Currently, three out of four FDA-approved medications for Opioid Use Disorder can be used during withdrawal.
Methadone has been used for over 40 years to treat opioid withdrawal and support recovery after detox. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, usually relieving withdrawal symptoms without producing euphoria. Methadone can remain in the body for 7–10 days, but its use is limited to certain clinics and carries a risk of addiction.
Buprenorphine, approved by the FDA in 2002, works similarly to methadone. It can be combined with naloxone to lower its potential for addiction.
This medication has been shown to be as effective as methadone and is notable as the first FDA-approved opioid treatment that any licensed physician could prescribe after receiving specific certification.
Lofexidine, one of the newest approved treatments:
Naltrexone is another FDA-approved medication for opioid use disorder, but it cannot be used during withdrawal, as doing so may lead to life-threatening complications. It is approved for long-term use after detox.
These medications are most effective when combined with therapy, a treatment approach known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Detox is just the first step in a lifelong journey.
Addiction doesn’t disappear after detox; it is a chronic disease that can last a lifetime. Without the right tools and knowledge to manage it, individuals remain at high risk for relapse.
The steps after detox are tailored to each client’s needs. For some, this may involve attending a residential rehab program for comprehensive, holistic treatment. For others, ongoing support through groups like Narcotics Anonymous can be beneficial.
The best way to ensure you receive the right treatment is to follow a doctor’s recommendation after a thorough assessment. If you’re unsure which treatment option is right for you, our addiction specialists are ready to help.
