Heroin is a potent and highly addictive opioid drug that more than a million Americans are addicted to. One aspect that makes heroin so addictive is the effects it has on the body. Using heroin results in a strong rush of euphoria and pleasure that people continually seek after trying it. Additionally, rapidly quitting heroin after a period of regular use results in withdrawal symptoms that can be so intense that many addicts prefer to continue using heroin rather than finish detoxing.
Heroin withdrawal can range from mild to severe, and the timeline usually lasts a total of 1-2 weeks.
Although heroin withdrawal is difficult to overcome, the process can be made easier by detoxing under medical supervision. Drug and alcohol detox centers can prescribe medications and offer the support needed to detox with safety and comfort. If you or a loved one are addicted to heroin and ready to begin your recovery journey, please contact Cobb Outpatient Detox to discuss your treatment options.
Understanding Heroin Withdrawal
If you abruptly stop using heroin after you’ve become physically dependent on it, you will experience symptoms of withdrawal. Withdrawal occurs as the body re-adjusts to functioning without heroin in the system. Heroin withdrawal is usually not life-threatening, however, it can be so painful that people who are addicted to heroin often develop great fear and anxiety about going into withdrawal.
Wanting to avoid withdrawal is a significant barrier that stops many people from seeking treatment, but in reality, the best way to detox from heroin is to do so under medical supervision. Doctors and detox centers can prescribe medications like Suboxone to alleviate your withdrawal symptoms and help your body acclimate safely.
How long heroin withdrawal lasts and how severe symptoms become varies from one person to the next. Factors that can influence the heroin withdrawal timeline and severity include:
- Length of use – Long-term use can lead to more severe physical dependence and more intense withdrawal symptoms.
- Frequency of use – Frequent heroin use can result in a more severe and rapid onset of withdrawal symptoms due to the body’s dependence on the drug.
- Potency/size of dose – Heroin that is higher potency or larger doses of heroin typically leads to more severe withdrawal symptoms as they create a stronger physical dependence on the drug.
- Method of administration – Injecting heroin tends to lead to a faster onset of withdrawal compared to other methods.
- Underlying medical conditions – People with underlying health conditions or mental disorders may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Previous opioid withdrawal history – A history of previous opioid withdrawal can affect subsequent withdrawals, potentially making them more intense due to the body’s increased sensitivity to the absence of the drug.
Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal
Heroin withdrawal is often described as feeling like a severe case of the seasonal flu combined with intense cravings, depression, and irritability. Common symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Muscle aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Excessive sweating
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose and teary eyes
- Goosebumps and chills
- Irritability
- Yawning
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Tremors or shaking
- Depression or mood swings
- Cravings for heroin
Symptoms may start as mild, peak after a few days, then slowly subside.
The Heroin Withdrawal Timeline
The exact timeline for heroin withdrawal varies, however, most people experience the following.
First 24 Hours
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can appear as quickly as 6-8 hours after the last dose. Early symptoms include yawning, watery eyes, runny nose, anxiety, and body aches. These symptoms may gradually worsen as time goes on.
2-3 Days After the Last Dose
Symptoms peak 2-3 days after the last dose. Individuals may experience aches, pains, chills, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid pulse, and more. Relapse is a serious concern during this phase of withdrawal, so it’s essential to seek professional help.
4-5 Days After the Last Dose
Symptoms begin to subside after 4-5 days, however, mood swings and cravings may be exceptionally strong. Gastrointestinal symptoms may fluctuate. Sweating, chills, and body aches will begin to lessen but may come and go.
6-7 Days After the Last Dose
After 6-7 days, most people report that the majority of their symptoms have resolved. However, heavy heroin users may experience lingering symptoms, a condition known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
Potential Complications During Heroin Withdrawal
In the majority of cases, heroin withdrawal is not life-threatening and can be successfully managed on an outpatient basis. However, without medical guidance, complications can occur. The main risk comes from dehydration. Nausea can lead to reduced appetite, and vomiting and diarrhea can result in the loss of water. These symptoms combined may lead to dehydration, which can be serious in extreme cases.
Another risk is relapse. Due to the physical and mental discomfort from withdrawal, it can be tempting to start using heroin again. Heroin relapse is a potentially fatal occurrence because a lot of the heroin on the street today also contains fentanyl, a drug that is 50 times stronger than heroin and responsible for the vast majority of opioid overdoses today.
The risk of complications is higher if you are detoxing from alcohol or other drugs, too. Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can result in seizures and other serious health problems. Whether you’re addicted to heroin or heroin and other drugs, it’s essential to seek medical assistance when planning to detox.
How to Detox From Heroin Safely
Safe heroin detox typically involves:
- Medical Supervision – Detoxing under medical supervision helps manage severe withdrawal symptoms and ensures a safer process.
- Inpatient or Outpatient Programs – Depending on the severity of addiction, heroin detox can occur in a specialized inpatient facility or through outpatient programs with regular medical check-ups.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Medications like methadone, buprenorphine (Suboxone), or naltrexone may be used to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings while tapering off heroin.
- Supportive Care – Proper nutrition, hydration, and rest are essential during detox. Emotional support through counseling or therapy can also be beneficial.
- Ongoing Support – After detox, continuing care such as counseling, support groups, or ongoing medication can help prevent relapse and support recovery.
Find Help for Heroin Addiction at our Georgia Detox Center
If you or a loved one are struggling with heroin addiction, our team at Cobb Behavioral Health can help you jumpstart your recovery. With safe and effective outpatient detox services, we’re here to help you detox safely and get the treatment you need to embrace a healthier, happier life. Please contact us today to verify your insurance and begin the intake process.