Heroin withdrawal occurs when you stop using this fiercely addictive substance after sustained use. 

Heroin is a semi-synthetic opioid that interacts with your brain’s natural opioid receptors, delivering pain-relieving and rewarding properties. 

In your brain, you have neurotransmitters associated with mood and movement, as well as essential physiological processes. These neurotransmitters or chemical messengers are designed to deliver endorphins when required. Using a drug like heroin continuously floods your brain with endorphins and dopamine, which induces a sense of euphoria.

Tolerance to heroin rapidly builds as the drug triggers significant changes in brain chemistry. It is inadvisable and potentially dangerous to abruptly stop using heroin without consulting your healthcare provider, as it will likely require medical supervision during the withdrawal phase. 

Fortunately, clinically supervised withdrawal at a licensed addiction treatment center can minimize the discomfort of withdrawal. According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), medication-assisted treatment is effective for heroin withdrawal [1].

In this guide, you will discover:

• What are the symptoms of withdrawal from heroin?
• How long does heroin withdrawal last?
• How to connect with heroin addiction treatment in Southern California.

Where You’d Be Staying

We strive to provide a comfortable, home-like environment during your recovery journey. Browse our facility images below to take a look at our upscale residential facilities.

Tour Our Facilities

Heroin Withdrawal

If you become physically dependent on heroin, just like any opioid, discontinuing use will cause intensely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which can lead to heroin abuse and addiction.

You will experience withdrawal symptoms for the duration of the first few weeks after cessation of the drug. During this initial withdrawal phase, heroin and its toxic metabolites leave your system, and your body struggles to cope with this change.

For many people who have used heroin long-term, the fear of withdrawal symptoms becomes a barrier to obtaining treatment.

While heroin withdrawal is uncomfortable, the symptoms are manageable with the right support. A practical first step in this process is learning about what to expect as heroin withdrawal unfolds.

Heroin withdrawal symptoms will differ from person to person, but many experiences are similar. Various factors influence the extent and severity of these symptoms, including:

• Duration of heroin drug abuse
• How much of the drug is used
• Route of administration
• Any underlying medical conditions
• Presence of co-occurring disorder
• Previous opioid withdrawal history

Withdrawal symptoms during heroin withdrawal are the opposite of the drug’s intoxicating and pleasurable effects. Heroin use suppresses certain functions of the central nervous system and enhances feelings of pleasure, but when heroin is no longer in the body, it leads to:

• Increased heart rate
• Lowered mood
• General anxiety

Complications During Heroin Withdrawal

The heroin withdrawal process occurs similarly to withdrawal from prescription opioids, although the presentation of symptoms is typically more intense. Learning how to withdraw from heroin comfortably and safely will minimize discomfort during the initial phases and will reduce the chance of relapse in recovery.

In almost all cases, supervised clinical treatment is the most efficient route to safely withdraw from an opioid like heroin and begin your ongoing recovery with inpatient or outpatient treatment.

If you are trying to quit heroin at home without medical guidance, it can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Most individuals who abruptly stop using heroin without medical supervision find the withdrawal symptoms so aggravating that they relapse before successfully overcoming their dependency.

What Are the Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal?

The symptoms experienced during heroin withdrawal are similar to the symptoms of a bad case of influenza. Most symptoms peak during the second and third days of heroin withdrawal and then subside after about a week.

Everyone undergoes a slightly different experience during heroin withdrawal, but these are some of the most common signs of heroin withdrawal:

• Disrupted Sleep Patterns and Restlessness
  • Insomnia and restless leg syndrome are common.
• Excessive Production of Bodily Fluids
  • Examples of these symptoms include more sweating or a running nose.
• Changes in Mood
  • As heroin withdrawal unfolds, it may cause irritability, anxiety, and depression. If these feelings do not subside, it may indicate an underlying mental health condition. Dual diagnosis treatment could be a beneficial avenue as it allows you to unpack both heroin addiction and mental health disorders at the same time.
• Aches and Pains
  • Taking heroin blocks pain pathways in the body, but when this vice is removed, you may be more sensitive to aches and pains. 
• Fever
  • If you find your temperature hits 103°F or above during heroin withdrawal, seek immediate medical intervention.
• Diarrhea and Stomach Issues
  • Heroin withdrawal often involves diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, and stomach pain as the body adjusts to functioning without the drug.
• Nausea and Vomiting
  • Nausea and vomiting during heroin withdrawal can lead to appetite loss and generalized discomfort.
• Cravings for Heroin
  • Cravings develop from both a desire to experience the high of heroin and to ease withdrawal symptoms. FDA-approved medications can help manage cravings during recovery.

How Long Does Heroin Withdrawal Last?

The duration of heroin withdrawal can vary based on several factors, such as the individual’s level of dependence, the amount and frequency of heroin use, and their overall health. 

Symptoms, which can include intense cravings, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, insomnia, and anxiety, usually subside within a week. However, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping for several weeks or even months. It is crucial for individuals seeking to overcome heroin addiction to receive professional medical and psychological support to manage the withdrawal process effectively and ensure a successful recovery.

The following will provide a general timeline of how long you can expect heroin withdrawal to last. 

Heroin Withdrawal Timeline

Initial Withdrawal Phase: Day 1-2 

The first symptoms manifest after just 6 hours of abstinence from heroin. Pain and muscle aches typically begin on day one and tend to intensify as the second day progresses. You might also experience panic attacks, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhea, and shaking.

Withdrawal Phase 2: Day 3- 5

The most intense phase of heroin withdrawal is characterized by nausea and vomiting alongside sweating, shivering, and abdominal cramping. The risk of relapse is highest during this phase. 

Withdrawal Phase 3: Day 6-7

Acute heroin withdrawal is complete within a week or so for most people, but severe cases may take longer. In phase 3, nausea subsides, as do aches and pains. You may still feel fatigued and run down, but you should start noticing physical improvements by the end of the first week.

We Accept Most Major Insurance

View our wide selection of accepted providers.
Don’t see yours? Call our admissions team for help.

View our wide selection of accepted providers. Don’t see yours? Call our admissions team for help.

844-576-0144

Call Now

Verify Insurance

Struggling with addiction? We can help.

Our insurance-covered rehab offers premier treatment for drug addiction, alcohol addiction, & mental health disorders. Call our friendly team today to get started.

Call Now

Medication-assisted treatment for Heroin Withdrawal

MAT (medication-assisted treatment) is a comprehensive approach to managing heroin withdrawal symptoms and supporting individuals on their journey to long-term recovery. MAT combines the use of FDA-approved medications [2] with counseling and behavioral therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

MAT utilizes specific drug withdrawal medication to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and stabilize brain chemistry. These medications include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.

• Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that can effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as heroin, providing a controlled and supervised dose that helps prevent withdrawal and reduces the desire to use heroin.
• Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It activates the opioid receptors in the brain to a lesser extent than heroin, mitigating withdrawal symptoms while reducing the risk of misuse or overdose.
• Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids. It helps prevent relapse by binding to the opioid receptors and preventing heroin from producing its euphoric effects. Naltrexone can be administered in the form of a pill or a monthly injectable.

Additionally, MAT incorporates counseling and behavioral therapies to address the psychological aspects of addiction. These therapies can help individuals develop coping strategies, address underlying issues contributing to their addiction, and build a foundation for long-term recovery. CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), and motivational interviewing are commonly used in MAT programs.

Medication-assisted treatment is typically provided as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual’s specific needs. The treatment plan may include regular medical check-ups, counseling sessions, support groups, and other supportive services to ensure holistic care and ongoing support.

MAT is an effective approach for managing heroin withdrawal symptoms [3], reducing the risk of relapse, and improving treatment outcomes. It is important to seek MAT services from licensed healthcare professionals experienced in addiction medicine to ensure safe and effective treatment.

By combining medications that target the physical aspects of addiction with counseling and behavioral therapies that address the psychological and emotional components, MAT offers a well-rounded approach to support individuals in their recovery journey. It can provide the necessary tools and support needed to break free from heroin addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.

Heroin Withdrawal | FAQs

What are the symptoms of heroin withdrawal?

Heroin withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and insomnia. These withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous in some cases, which is why medical supervision is recommended during the withdrawal process.

How long does heroin withdrawal take?

Heroin withdrawal typically lasts about 7 to 10 days, with symptoms peaking around day 2 or 3. However, withdrawal may vary based on individual factors such as the user’s level of dependence, frequency of use, metabolism, genetics, and health.

What to eat during heroin withdrawal?

During heroin withdrawal, dehydration is prevalent, so it is essential to stay hydrated and consume nutrient-rich foods that support your body during recovery. Foods like whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help stabilize blood sugar and mood while promoting overall well-being.

What reduces heroin withdrawal symptoms?

Medications like methadone and buprenorphine can alleviate heroin withdrawal symptoms by stabilizing brain chemistry and reducing cravings. These medications are administered alongside medical supervision, proper hydration, and psychological support for safe detoxing and symptom management.

Heroin Rehab at Gratitude Lodge

If you’ve been struggling with heroin addiction, Gratitude Lodge in Southern California is here to support you with comprehensive substance abuse treatment advisory. We offer pet-friendly rehab centers that prioritize your overall well-being and provide comprehensive recovery solutions. You can find our facilities in Newport Beach and Long Beach, CA.

At Gratitude Lodge, we understand the importance of a safe and supervised withdrawal process. This will help you to purge the toxins from your system with clinical and emotional care on hand, as well as medications approved by the FDA for alleviating the intensity of cravings and heroin withdrawal symptoms.

Medication-assisted treatment can also be effective during ongoing treatment in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Your treatment team will personalize your recovery plan to include a variety of evidence-based therapies, including: 

• Psychotherapy (CBT and DBT)
• Individual counseling
• Group counseling
• Family therapy
• Holistic therapy

If you’re ready to break free from heroin addiction and begin a new life of successful sobriety, call 844-576-0144 today! 

Sources

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8389722/#:~:text=MAT%20has%20been%20shown%20to,Methadone%20is%20also%20cost%2D%20effective.

[2] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/