Opiate drugs are one of the most prescribed drugs in the nation. Most who use opiates have done so under a doctor’s care for the treatment of pain. However, these medications are highly addictive and even when taken as prescribed a dependency can develop.
Addiction to Opiates
Prolonged use of opiate drugs can result in the individual developing a tolerance, requiring larger doses of the drug to find relief. Commonly, those taking opiates will increase their dose against the advice of their doctor, leading to prescription drug abuse. As the body becomes dependent on opiates the individual will begin to show addictive behaviors, seeking the drug with obsession.
Opiate drugs are commonly sought out by drug abusers medications for its euphoric effects. Taking the drug by for their euphoric effects. They often take these medications in high doses by crushing and snorting the drug. This creates a fast high, sense of well-being and euphoria. These effects keep the abuser coming back to the drug for more, eventually developing a tolerance and addiction. When taking opiate drugs incorrectly it puts the individual at a great risk of overdose. Some die as a result of cardiac or respiratory arrest when overdosing on opiate drugs. Thankfully many are also saved when found in time, taken to a hospital and given naltrexone intravenously as a reversal.
Withdrawing from Opiates
Withdrawing from opiate drugs can be uncomfortable, even painful at times. With both a physical and emotional dependency to the drug it can be overwhelming when trying to stop its use. Depending on the severity of your addiction and if you are using opiates in combination with other drugs (such as alcohol or benzos) there can be life threatening effects during the withdrawal process.
Common symptoms of opiate withdrawal include but are not limited to:
- Low energy
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Insomnia
- Runny nose
- Teary eyes
- Hot and cold sweats
- Goose bumps
- Yawning
- Muscle aches and pains
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
The initial symptoms of opiate withdrawal will occur within the first two weeks of discontinuing its use, however post-acute withdrawal symptoms can last several months depending on the severity of the addiction.
Detoxifying from Opiates
The first step in treating opiate addiction is detoxification. At Outpatient Medical Detox we offer professional care from experienced chemical dependency specialists and medical Doctors. During the medical detox process you will be gradually weaned off the opiate medication, helping to prevent withdrawal symptoms, adding other medications to help you stay comfortable. You will be monitored during your entire stay to ensure you’re healthy and safety. Detoxification will help set the path for your recovery and must be done correctly. At Outpatient Medical Detox, we offer the best services to ensure you overcome your opiate addiction and move on to live a happy, healthy and more fulfilling life in recovery.