Do I Need Detox? Understanding Withdrawal from Opioids

I’ve often heard it said that detoxing from opioids won’t kill you but it sure will make you feel like death. During my time in active addiction the general rule of thumb was that only alcohol and benzos were dangerous to withdraw from on your own. But with the increasing prevalence of dangerously potent opioids like fentanyl, withdrawing from opioids is something that should be done in the presence of medical professionals inside a licensed detox program. In this blog we’ll dive into what opioid withdrawal is, why it’s difficult and dangerous to manage on your own, and discuss the importance of medical detoxification.

What is Opioid Withdrawal?

Withdrawal is a physiological and psychological phenomena that occurs when someone who is dependent on opioids suddenly stops or significantly reduces their use of the drug. Characterized by a range of symptoms, opioid withdrawal can present itself within hours of the last dose depending on the specific opioid and amount being used. As the body adjusts to functioning without the presence of opioids, withdrawal symptoms can grow to be severely uncomfortable and distressing. The severity depends on factors such as the type of opioid used, the duration of use, and individual physiology.

Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal

Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms include:

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Muscle aches & pains
Anxiety & agitation
Insomnia & restlessness
Sweating & chills
Runny nose & watery eyes
Dilated pupils
Tremors and shaking
Depression, dysphoria, & extreme feelings of hopelessness
Cravings for opioids

The intensity of these symptoms can be overwhelming with withdrawal being the primary reason for relapse as users will do anything to alleviate their suffering.

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Fentanyl, being far more potent than morphine or heroin, presents with its own set of withdrawal symptoms which can be particularly rough due its potency and fast-acting nature.

Intense cravings for fentanyl
Severe anxiety & agitation
Rapid heartbeat & hypertension
Muscle stiffness & spasms
Profound fatigue & weakness
Nausea, violent vomiting, & diarrhea
Extreme Insomnia & restlessness

Managing fentanyl withdrawal without professional assistance can be especially dangerous due to the severity of the symptoms and the risk of medical complications.

The Role of Medical Detox

Detoxing from opioids, especially fentanyl, runs the risk of medical complications which could result in death. A medical detox program provides a safe, structured, and supervised environment for you to withdraw under the care of licensed healthcare professionals.

During your time detox you’ll be provided around-the-clock medical supervision to monitor vital signs, manage withdrawal symptoms, and address any complications which may arise during the withdrawal process. Doctors may prescribe certain medications such as buprenorphine to alleviate cravings and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Other comfort meds may be provided to help with sleep, anxiety, and to make the detox process more manageable. With 24/7 support, you’ll have everything you need to safely and effectively come off opioids. As you become medically stable, you’ll work with the clinical staff to create an aftercare program of support and resources to prevent relapse and encourage long-term sobriety.

Get the Live Again Difference

If you or someone you love needs help for opioid addiction, give Live Again Detox a call. We offer the latest in evidence-based medical care for those in need of detox and medical stabilization. If we aren’t the best fit for you or a loved one, we’ll help you find a detox program that best fits your specific needs. Don’t let the fear of withdrawal keep you from living the life you deserve. Call us today.

	Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Vahid Osmanm, M.D. Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Addictionologist
	Clinically Reviewed By: Josh Sprung, L.C.S.W. Board Certified Clinical Social Worker