Drug and Alcohol Detox Programs - Getting Off Heroin and Methadone

Symptoms of withdrawal from heroin or methadone, and the detox process itself, can be extremely painful. If you are considering detoxing from heroin, or other opiates, you may be wondering how to handle the withdrawal process. Here, we'll take a closer look at the different symptoms of methadone detox withdrawal.

Symptoms of withdrawal from methadone

• Withdrawal from methadone is very uncomfortable. Aside from the physical symptoms, methadone addiction affects the circulatory system. Some symptoms include bloating and swelling, irregular heartbeat, choking and pallor. Other symptoms of methadone withdrawal include pale skin and a shaky or shaking body. Tenderness in the arms, hands and feet is also a common symptom.
  
  
• Symptoms of methadone withdrawal are usually mild but last anywhere from three to six weeks. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms like fever and muscle aches and pains. Some individuals may experience irritability, panic attacks, depression, insomnia, and body aches. Though the worst withdrawal symptoms usually last for just one or two days, some people experience the full range for up to a week.

Symptoms of withdrawal from other opiates

• Withdrawal from opiates is not easy. The body becomes physically dependent on them after prolonged use. Although it may be uncomfortable, it is possible to overcome withdrawal from opiates. To ease the symptoms, there are several things you can do to make it more comfortable. Here are some suggestions. First, try to distract yourself. Try to watch a funny film or read a book. If all else fails, surround yourself with supportive people.
  
  
• Opioids are commonly prescribed pain medications, which are made from the opium poppy plant. This chemical is considered a schedule II controlled substance, and has several risks for misuse and addiction. They are not available as freely as they were in the past, and there is a high risk of dependence. The danger of addiction is significant, as many people become physically and psychologically dependent on these drugs. Once an individual becomes addicted, it is difficult to quit using them, and they may take dangerous or illegal steps to get more of them.

Symptoms of withdrawal from heroin

• As soon as six hours after the last use, individuals can begin to experience the signs of withdrawal. These include aches, pains, nervousness, and intense feelings of ill-health. These symptoms can last from a few hours to a week, but the mental and emotional effects of heroin withdrawal can be even more distressing. People experiencing withdrawal from heroin must actively fight against the cravings that will be present throughout the process.
  
  
• While there are no certain methods for preventing or minimizing these symptoms, there are medications available to help alleviate the discomfort. Medications like methadone and suboxone are prescribed by physicians to help people wean themselves off of heroin without experiencing serious withdrawal symptoms. However, these medications must be used under the supervision of a qualified addiction medicine professional. As a result, these medications have some risks and should only be used with the help of a doctor.