How Is Heroin Withdrawal Treated?

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Heroin withdrawal should be treated in a professional rehab facility so those suffering from heroin addiction can navigate the withdrawal process safely.

Call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) now to find safe, reliable rehab centers where you can recover from addiction after being treated for withdrawal.

Professional Detox is Necessary

Heroin withdrawal can be dangerous and requires professional treatment.

According to the National Library of Medicine, “Withdrawal from [opioid] drugs on your own can be very hard and may be dangerous.” While the symptoms themselves are not considered to be life-threatening, it is possible that the severity of the pain and discomfort you are likely to experience could lead you to relapse.

For this reason, the safest option for someone needing to detox is through a medically supervised detox, ideally one that can smoothly transition you into a comprehensive addiction treatment program.

Medications for Heroin Withdrawal

Withdrawal from heroin is usually treated with one of three medications. As stated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “It is not recommended that clinicians attempt to manage significant opioid withdrawal symptoms without the effective detoxification agents.”

This is because opioid withdrawal symptoms, especially those associated with heroin abuse, can be extremely uncomfortable and overwhelming. The deep muscle and bone pain and the flu-like symptoms often experienced by abusers are among the most intense symptoms.

The three types of heroin withdrawal medications are:

• Clonidine: Clonidine is an antihypertensive agent that can reduce symptoms of anxiety, agitation and cramping, as well as the flu-like and painful symptoms of heroin withdrawal. This medication does not treat cravings, nor does it minimize gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea.
• Methadone: Methadone is an opioid agonist that occupies the opioid receptors in the brain, keeping the individual who takes it from experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, including cravings. As long as methadone is taken at the right dosage, it will not become dangerous or cause euphoria.
• Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that works much in the same way as methadone but has a lower potential for abuse because it is not a full opioid agonist. In addition, it is usually paired in treatment with naloxone, which precipitates withdrawal in those who attempt to crush and snort it.

Preparations for Addiction Treatment

Most detox programs are designed to help you take the next step into addiction treatment. In some cases, the transition is especially smooth when the same facility offers both detox and rehab services. Even if detox and treatment take place at different centers, your detox program should help you prepare for ongoing care and connect you with the right treatment program.

Detox alone is rarely enough to support long-term recovery. While it helps your body clear heroin and manage withdrawal symptoms, it does not address the underlying causes of addiction. Without continuing into a structured treatment program after detox, the risk of relapse is much higher.

Seek Heroin Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment Now

You can begin your treatment with medically supervised detox and move on to addiction treatment as soon as possible by calling 800-934-1582(Sponsored) .

We will help you find a program that will cater to your needs and find long-term recovery. Call now to discuss your options.

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