Opioid withdrawal is a challenging and often painful process that can vary in duration and intensity. By knowing the typical timeline and recognizing the symptoms of opioid withdrawal, you can better prepare yourself or a loved one for this demanding phase of the recovery journey.
Understanding what lies ahead can help manage expectations and make navigating this period more manageable.
What Is Opioid Withdrawal?
Opioid withdrawal is caused by the body’s dependence on opioids and occurs when someone who has been regularly using these drugs drastically reduces or stops their intake. Opioids include prescription opioid medicines like oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), morphine, and fentanyl, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. Understanding the underlying causes of opiate withdrawal can shed light on why the process is so challenging, dangerous, and painful.
How Opioid Dependence Develops
- Regular Use: When opioids are used regularly, the body adapts to their presence. These drugs bind to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the perception of pain and creating a sense of euphoria. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to this artificial stimulation.
- Tolerance: As opioid use continues, tolerance develops. Higher drug doses are needed to achieve the same effects, leading to increased consumption.
- Dependence: With ongoing use, the body becomes physically dependent on opioids. The brain’s natural production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, decreases because it relies on the drug to produce these effects. This dependency means that normal functioning becomes reliant on the presence of opioids.
What Triggers Opioid Withdrawal?
When someone who is dependent on opioids stops taking the drug or significantly reduces their dose, the body experiences a sudden imbalance. This is because the brain and body are no longer receiving the opioid stimulation they have become accustomed to. The opiate withdrawal process is the body’s way of readjusting to the absence of the drug.
Neurochemical Changes
- Dopamine and Endorphins: Opioids increase the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. When opioid use stops, dopamine levels drop, leading to symptoms like depression and anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure).
- Receptor Sensitivity: The brain’s opioid receptors, which have been flooded with the drug, suddenly become deprived. This causes the receptors to become hypersensitive, contributing to withdrawal symptoms like pain and discomfort.
How Long Do Opioid Withdrawals Last?
The duration of opioid withdrawals can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of opioid along with other drugs used, the length of drug use, and individual differences. Generally, withdrawal symptoms begin within 12-30 hours after the last dose and can last from a few days to several weeks. Acute withdrawal symptoms typically peak within the first 72 hours and gradually subside over the following week.
Risk Factors for Withdrawal Severity
Certain factors can influence the intensity and duration of withdrawal symptoms:
- Type of Opioid: Short-acting opioids like heroin can cause withdrawal symptoms to appear more quickly but may resolve sooner. Long-acting opioids like methadone may lead to prolonged withdrawal symptoms.
- Duration of Use: Long-term use increases the severity of withdrawal.
- Dosage: Higher doses of opioids can lead to more intense withdrawal symptoms.
- Individual Health: Co-occurring mental health conditions
Early Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms
The early phase of opiate withdrawal can be particularly challenging as the body just begins to cleanse itself of the drug. These symptoms typically start within 12 to 30 hours after the last dose, depending on the type of opioid used and the individual’s unique physiology.
This initial stage can be distressing and uncomfortable, often marked by a range of physical and psychological symptoms. Understanding what to expect during this phase can help individuals and their support networks better prepare and manage the process.
In the beginning stages of opioid withdrawal, individuals may experience a range of symptoms as the drug detoxes from the body. These early symptoms can include:
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Yawning
- Hot and cold flushes
- Insomnia
Peak Withdrawal Symptoms
The peak phase of opioid withdrawal is a critical juncture in the detoxification process, typically unfolding within 48 to 72 hours after the last opioid dose. This stage is characterized by the intensification of withdrawal symptoms, making it one of the most challenging and life-threatening periods for those in recovery.
As withdrawal progresses, the intensified symptoms can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Severe craving
Late Withdrawal Symptoms
As the peak phase of opioid withdrawal starts to subside, individuals enter the late withdrawal stage, which presents its own set of challenges and experiences. This phase generally begins a week or so after the last opioid dose and can persist for a long period, even a few weeks, depending on various factors like the duration of opioid use, the specific opioid involved, and individual health conditions.
These late withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Anxiety
- Cravings
Managing Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Navigating opioid withdrawal symptoms can be a challenging process, but managing them strategically is important for a successful recovery. As you move through the different stages, a well-thought-out approach to symptom management becomes increasingly important.
Understanding how to manage these symptoms not only eases discomfort but also plays a key role in supporting overall recovery from opioid use disorder and addiction, boosting your chances of long-term success.
Effective opioid withdrawal management is essential to ease withdrawal symptoms and support recovery from drug abuse. Here are some strategies to consider:
Medications
Certain medications or pain medicines can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. These include:
- Methadone: A long-acting opioid that can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Buprenorphine: Often combined with naloxone (as in Suboxone) to ease withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse.
- Clonidine: Can help reduce anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, and sweating.
Support Groups
Joining support groups can provide emotional support and help individuals stay motivated during their recovery journey. Groups like Narcotics Anonymous offer a community of people who understand the challenges of opioid dependence.
Counseling and Therapy
Counseling and therapy are crucial components of opiate withdrawal management. Behavioral therapies can help individuals address the psychological aspects of addiction and that patients develop coping strategies to prevent relapse.
Medical Detox Facilities
For those with severe withdrawal symptoms, medical detox facilities offer supervised care and treatment to manage symptoms safely. Detox facilities can provide a structured environment and access to necessary medications.
Lifestyle Changes
Making positive lifestyle changes can also help manage withdrawal symptoms and help overcome drug and alcohol abuse for the long term. These changes can include:
- Regular exercise: Helps reduce anxiety and improve mood.
- Healthy diet: Supports overall health and well-being.
- Hydration: Essential to stay hydrated, especially during the peak withdrawal phase.
When to Seek Help
Recognizing when to seek help for your opioid withdrawal symptoms is vital for a safe recovery. Here are key signs that indicate it’s time to get professional assistance:
- Severe Symptoms: If you experience intense nausea, vomiting, or dehydration, these can be life-threatening, and medical help is necessary.
- Unmanageable Cravings: Persistent cravings that interfere with your recovery plan require professional support.
- Mental Health Issues: Severe anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts need immediate attention.
- Physical Complications: Symptoms like rapid heartbeat or severe muscle pain should be evaluated by a doctor.
- Inability to Function: Difficulty with daily activities or maintaining relationships signals a need for additional help with an opioid use disorder
- Lack of Progress: Worsening symptoms or lack of improvement may indicate the need for a different treatment approach.
- Previous Relapse: If past attempts to quit have failed, professional guidance can offer new strategies.
- Support Needs: Limited support from friends or family can be supplemented with professional resources.
Seeking help when you notice these signs can enhance your chances of a successful recovery.
Reach Out to Luxe Treatment Center Today
Understanding how long opioid withdrawal symptoms last and what to expect can help you prepare for the challenges ahead. While withdrawal can be a difficult process, with the right support and management strategies, recovery is possible.
If you or a loved one are experiencing opioid withdrawal, it’s important to seek professional help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a national helpline and referral service for those needing assistance with substance abuse and mental health issues.
When you are ready to embark on the journey to recovery from addiction, Luxe Treatment Center is here to support you. Our personalized approach to substance use disorder treatment empowers individuals to conquer addiction and rediscover a fulfilling life.
Contact the team at our Las Vegas rehab center by filling out our online form or calling us at (725) 215-3017 to take the first step toward healing. Let us guide you on the path to reclaiming your life and embracing a brighter future.
