The opioid epidemic is a serious public health crisis, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that in 2021 alone, 80,000 Americans died from overdosing on opioids. These drugs are commonly prescribed to patients who suffer from chronic pain. Still, when taken in excess or used alongside other medications like benzodiazepines (commonly known as anti-anxiety medication), opioids can be extremely dangerous.
Opioid withdrawal is not an enjoyable experience. The body essentially experiences an absence of its natural opiate – also known as endogenous or exogenous opioid peptides – and any external sources of it. This produces uncomfortable and challenging symptoms for those attempting to break their addiction to opioids. To detox from opioids safely and successfully, it’s essential to understand the different phases of detox and how long they will last. To learn more about the opioid detox timeline, keep reading!
Detox LA is a Los Angeles drug and alcohol detox center that can help you overcome opioid addiction. Contact us today to learn more.
What are Opioids?
Opioids are a class of drugs that affect the way the brain and nervous system interact to control both physical and emotional pain. In simple terms, they are chemicals in the brain that make you feel good. Some of the most popular opioids include Heroin, Fentanyl, Codeine, Oxycontin, Hydrocodone, Morphine, and Heroin. As is likely evident, opioids can be extremely addictive and dangerous. This is why they are often prescribed to patients dealing with chronic pain, like those with recurring headaches, back pain, or diseases like fibromyalgia.
Do Opioid Users Need Detox Programs?
This is a very important question to ask before you decide to start opioid detox. Most people who regularly take opioids daily will need to detox from these drugs. This is because your body will become dependent on the drugs to function properly. With time, you will need higher and higher doses of the drugs to achieve the same results as when you first started taking them. As time passes, you will become more and more physically dependent on drugs. This means that when you try to stop taking them, you will experience a wide range of withdrawal symptoms.
The severity of these symptoms will depend on various factors, including the specific drugs you’re addicted to, the length of time you’ve been taking them, and your metabolism. This is why opioid detox programs can be extremely helpful. They can support you through the process while helping reduce withdrawal symptoms’ severity.
What are the Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal?
It takes 1 to 3 days to go into full opioid withdrawal. During this time, it’s important to seek medical attention if you feel like you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms, as they can become dangerous. The most common symptoms of withdrawal from opioids include the following:
- Intense cravings: Opioids can be even more intense than the original urge to take the drugs.
- Flu-like symptoms: You will have a fever, chills, and an ache in your bones.
- Sweating: You will sweat when at rest, and your hands will feel “pins and needles.”
- Irritability: You may become cranky and have mood swings.
- Bad dreams: You will have vivid, unsettling dreams that can be difficult to wake.
What is the Timeline for Opioid Detox?
The opioid detox timeline will depend on a few factors, including your metabolism and the drugs you’re addicted to. However, it’s important to note that you should not attempt a detox without medical supervision. There are two stages of detox: Withdrawal and rehabilitation.
- Withdrawal: This is when you are experiencing the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. It usually lasts 3–10 days and can be excruciatingly uncomfortable.
- Rehabilitation: This is the process during which you will be introduced to various rehabilitation methods. These can include cognitive behavioral therapy, acupuncture, and yoga.
How long it takes you to detox depends on various factors, including the specific drugs you’re addicted to and your metabolic rate.
Are There Opioid Detox Programs in Los Angeles?
There are many opioid detox programs in Los Angeles and across the country. It’s incredibly important to do your research when looking for a detox program, as you want to be sure you are working with a facility with a proven track record. To find the best opioid detox programs in Los Angeles, you can start by conducting a simple online search. From there, you can find listings of detox programs in your area. Once you’ve located a few programs, you can narrow your search based on the most important criteria. It’s also a good idea to talk to a medical professional, like a doctor or a therapist, for advice and recommendations.
Detox LA Provides Mindfulness-Based Therapy For Substance Abuse Treatment
We use a unique approach that combines traditional methods with mindfulness techniques to help people with substance abuse issues. In addition, our treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs and goals, which means you can get the help you need at Detox LA without worrying about being judged or pressured into doing something you don’t want to do. Reach out to our Los Angeles addiction treatment center today for help with your opioid addiction and recovery.