Withdrawing from Opiates

by | Sep 13, 2016 | Health

Opiate drugs, including prescription pain medicine and heroin, are some of the most widely abused and dangerous drugs today. Withdrawal from these drugs can be a painful and uncomfortable process, but it is important to fight through it and get better. Here is some information about Opiate withdrawal.

The symptoms of withdrawal from opiates vary greatly depending on how dependent the user is on the drug. This can be affected by how long the drug has been taken, how much is taken at once, which opiate it is, how it was taken and even your medical history and biological factors. Early withdrawal symptoms, usually beginning within six hours of withdrawal, include muscle aches, agitation, trouble sleeping, anxiety, runny nose, sweats, a racing heart, fever, among others. As time goes on, the symptoms of opiate withdrawal can peak, usually around 72 hours, to nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, goosebumps, cramps, depression, and cravings.

Once the withdrawal has started, physical symptoms can last around a week; however some of the psychological symptoms such as the cravings may continue even longer. To get through this point in the withdrawal process, it is important to seek out therapy and psychological support from a mental health professional. Substance abuse programs have proven helpful in these cases. Some withdrawal aids can include medical detox, which involves supervision by specialists in a safe setting. Medical detox provides a safer way to detox, and relief from some of the worse symptoms. Vital signs can be monitored so that brain and body functions can be regulated.

Opiate withdrawal is a serious matter, and it should be handled immediately to ensure that the patient does not go back to abusing opiates. It is important to educate yourself if you or someone you know is going through the withdrawal process, and get the necessary help to ensure success. Find more information today. Contact Alternative to Meds Center or visit the website  for more information.

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