Heroin is an incredibly intense drug derived from morphine. Before you can begin your rehabilitation and sobriety journey, you must participate in heroin detox. The safest way to detox from heroin is in a medically supervised, accredited facility. Heroin detox should not be attempted on one’s own at home – doing so could have serious, even fatal consequences. Many people feel better going into the detox process if they know what to expect, so we’ve laid out the process as simply as possible. As always, if you have any questions you can reach out to the Solution Based Treatment admissions team for guidance.
Heroin Detox Basics
Heroin detox can take anywhere from three to ten days, but can be longer depending on the level of addiction. Upon entering the heroin detox program you will meet with your care team that is going to oversee your detox and recovery.
This team will include medical doctors, nurse practitioners, licensed therapists, and other support staff. It’s critical that you are open and honest with this care team so that they can provide you with the best care possible.
Once you have met with your team and they have laid out the best treatment plan for your needs, you will begin the detox process. Your doctor will prescribe medications to aid in your comfort and wellbeing as you detox.
The two most commonly used medications in heroin detox are Buprenorphine and Naltrexone. The care team working with you will adjust what medications you are prescribed based on your condition – changing the dosage as needed.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal typically begins anywhere from 8 to 24 hours after last use. As with other components of heroin detox, withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on the level of addiction. Heavier users may experience more intense withdrawal symptoms sooner. Initial withdrawal symptoms include:
- Heightened pulse & breathing
- Elevated body temperature
- Trouble sleeping
- Dilated pupils
- Sweating
- Muscle pain or spasms
- Mood swings
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
These symptoms can be quite uncomfortable and may result in a strong desire to relapse. This is why detoxing under medical supervision is so important for successful detoxification.
When the body comes off of a strong drug like heroin, psychological conditions may also become present. Common conditions include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Chronic fatigue
If you feel that you are experiencing signs of psychological conditions it’s critical that you notify your care team as soon as possible.
Detox with a Support System
Heroin detox is not something that should be done in isolation or at home. Having a medical team present ensures your safety during before, during, and after the detox process. They have the experience and tools needed to give the support you need during a very vulnerable time. Medically supervised detox takes place in a controlled environment, allowing your care team to set you up for sobriety from the start. Detox safely the first time for long term recovery success. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of heroin addiction, connect with the Solution Based Treatment admissions team today to see if our detox and rehab programs are right for your needs.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.