Opioids are chemical compounds that closely resemble the effects of Opium, commonly used as powerful painkillers. Because they are closely related, they also carry many of the addictive properties and harmful side effects of drugs like heroin. Contrary to popular belief, opioids are no safer than their illicit counterparts and should be handled only as directed by a doctor.
Opioid Addiction
Addiction to Opioids in the US has been on the rise and it’s now considered a health epidemic. There were over 16,000 overdoses involving opioids in 2020, a 16% increase from the previous year.
To put that into perspective, around 932,000 people have died from drug overdoses in the US since 1999, which means that over 16% of all drug overdose deaths in the US since 1999 were caused by opioids in 2020 alone. That’s a huge number, and it shows the problem is serious and of concern to health officials and those whose loved ones may be suffering from opioid addiction.
Its imperative for addiction patients to receive proper detox treatment so they may avoid the worst of cases, but detoxing may not be as straightforward, opioid withdrawals can make it difficult for addicts to get clean. It’s important to learn how to detox from opioids safely, as the side effects of withdrawals can be dangerous and life-threatening.
Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms may appear when users have developed a degree of dependence on the drug, and they may vary depending on factors such as how long and how much of the medication was taken.
Some symptoms might be mild and not life-threatening while others such as depression or Autonomic hyperactivity could be deadly. It’s always recommended to contact a recovery specialist prior to detoxing from opioids. If any of the signs and symptoms of opioid withdrawals are present in someone taking the medication, it’s important to contact their healthcare provider or call 911 if it’s an emergency.
Some of the common symptoms of opioid withdrawal include:
- Excessive flow of tears
- Muscle aches
- Tremors
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Eye discomfort in bright lights
- Trouble sleeping
- Autonomic hyperactivity
- Irritable moods
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety
How To Detox Safely From Opioids
You don’t need to look too far to learn how to detox from opioids, many treatments are offered to treat their strong physical dependence on the body and its withdrawal symptoms.
The best way to determine if a patient needs specialized treatment is by contacting a recovery specialist or consulting with a medical professional. Trying to play doctor at home could endanger the lives of our loved ones and put them at risk of a relapse.
Whether the patient attends an outpatient or inpatient treatment program, it’s likely that pharmacological management could be offered if the withdrawal is severe. There are three main medication choices to treat the addiction at this stage: Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone. These medications will be provided by recovery experts along with counseling to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and nurse the addict back to good health. Other medicines may also be provided to alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as Clonidine to reduce blood pressure.
How To Get Help
Now that you know how to detox from opioids safely, it’s time to take action.
Opioid withdrawal symptoms can hinder recovery by keeping addicts from wanting to stop using, they can be dangerous and life-threatening if not dealt with adequately.
If you or one of your loved ones is suffering from opioid withdrawals then you must act now!
Veritas Detox offers opioid detox programs to help you or your loved ones get sober and stay that way.
Help is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week at no cost or obligation. Speak to one of Veritas recovery experts, to seek the help you and your loved ones need.
Contact Veritas Detox today!
