Narcotic Withdrawal Symptoms You May Be Experiencing

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When you choose to stop using harmful narcotics, you are making a decision that will ultimately save your life. However, you may not automatically think about the withdrawal symptoms that come along with quitting.

After using opiates such as OxyContin, methadone or heroin for a prolonged period, uncomfortable symptoms are sure to follow. These symptoms may be uncomfortable, but they are treatable and will improve over time. Many former users will agree that these narcotic withdrawal symptoms are a small price to pay for regaining control of their lives.

What Causes Narcotic Withdrawal Symptoms?

Narcotics withdrawal is difficult and uncomfortable, but know that the duration is only about a week!

According to the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 7.8 million people, aged 12 and older, misused opioids, such as heroin and prescription pain medication, within the past year. 

When you use narcotics regularly over several weeks or more, it is easy to become physically dependent on them. This means that you rely on the drug to function normally and avoid symptoms of withdrawal. 

What Types of Symptoms Can I Expect?

Some of the most common early symptoms of narcotic withdrawal include:

• Insomnia
• Muscle aches and pain
• Intense anxiety and restlessness
• Excessive yawning
• Tearing up and a runny nose

Over time, you can expect to experience one or more of the following late symptoms of narcotic withdrawal:

• Nausea & vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Dilated pupils
• Goose bumps on arms and legs

These symptoms can be uncomfortable, but are not usually life-threatening and will disappear over time. You can also seek out treatment options for your withdrawal symptoms if they begin to be too difficult to handle.

What Treatment Options are Available for Withdrawal Symptoms?

Treatment for drug withdrawal includes a combination of support and medication.  This includes FDA-approved medications like buprenophine/ buprenorphine-naloxone, Lucemyra and methadone. Other medications are also used to help treat specific symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, pain or diarrhea. 

Will Everyone Experience the Same Symptoms?

The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms vary from one person to the next. Several factors can impact this process, such as age, weight, health and duration and amount of the drug the person has been using. Since the symptoms can vary, the treatment options for withdrawal are often different for each person as well. Some may be able to cope with their symptoms using prescription medication, while others may rely on more structured and intensive support, such as a medically assisted detox. 

Keep in mind that the withdrawal symptoms are only temporary, and once they pass, you will be on your way to rebuilding your drug-free life.

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