What is the Opiate Epidemic?  

In recent years, the United States has been grappling with an opiate epidemic of unprecedented proportions. The alarming rise in opioid-related overdoses has garnered national attention, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities across the country. The proliferation of prescription opioids, coupled with their highly addictive nature, has contributed to the widespread misuse and abuse of these drugs. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), an estimated 68% of drug overdoses in the United States involve opioids. This staggering statistic underscores the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for effective interventions. Opioid-related overdose deaths have seen a dramatic increase, with a quadrupling of fatalities since 1998. Cook County, in particular, has experienced a 16% rise in opioid-related overdose deaths from 2013 to 2015 alone. 

What Is the Difference Between Opiates and Opioids?

Opiates, derived from natural compounds like morphine and codeine found in the opium poppy plant, have a long history of medicinal use dating back to ancient civilizations. Their ability to bind to specific receptors in the brain and central nervous system makes them effective for pain relief but also poses a higher risk of addiction and misuse. In contrast, opioids encompass a broader range of drugs, including both natural opiates and synthetic or semi-synthetic chemicals like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl. While opioids offer precise and potent pain relief, they may also present greater hazards due to their synthetic nature and potency. The term "opioid" has expanded to include various drugs used in modern medicine for pain management.

Despite their differences, both opiates and opioids share similar addictive qualities and potential for abuse. Treatment methods for addiction to these substances often involve medically supervised detoxification to stabilize individuals physically and manage withdrawal symptoms safely. This initial phase of treatment aims to address the immediate challenges of withdrawal and lay the foundation for ongoing recovery efforts.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Opiate Addiction

Recognizing these signs in yourself or in a loved one is the first step toward seeking help and initiating the recovery process. Identifying these symptoms can lead to the necessary actions to begin treatment and support recovery efforts.

  • Constant cravings for the drugs
  • Taking opiates in a way that is not recommended or prescribed
  • Lying about the frequency and amount of drug use
  • Changes in behavior
  • Mood swings
  • Weight changes
  • Stealing to sustain the addiction

Questions about our Facilities or Programs?

Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.

Talk To Our Team

Withdrawal Timeline and Symptoms for an Opiate Detox?

If a person suddenly stops taking opiates, they may experience many uncomfortable and painful withdrawal symptoms. Even people who have taken opioids for a long period according to their prescription may experience these side effects.

The duration of opiate withdrawals depends greatly on the severity of the dependence. Scientifically, we can pinpoint different symptoms of the withdrawal process, but it is hard to verify a specific opiate withdrawal timeline due to the varying factors in usage severity, length, age, and other determining factors. Withdrawal symptoms may linger for weeks or even months in certain people.

Stages of the opioid withdrawal timeline and symptoms include:

  1. Early stage (6-24 hours): The first six to twenty-four hours following the last dosage are usually when withdrawal symptoms start to manifest. Restlessness, anxiousness, aches in the muscles, tears, perspiration, runny nose, and insomnia are some of the early symptoms. Strong opioid cravings may also occur in some people.
  2. Peak stage (2-3 days): The first two to three days are often when withdrawal symptoms peak. More severe symptoms, such as excruciating pain in the muscles and bones, cramping in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, elevated blood pressure, and heart palpitations, may occur during this phase.
  3. Subacute stage (4-7 days): The intensity of symptoms progressively starts to decrease following the initial peak. Even though certain psychological symptoms like worry and anger as well as some physical discomfort may linger, they usually don't feel as bad as they did during the peak stage.
  4. Post-acute stage (7+ days): Withdrawal symptoms may linger for weeks or even months in certain people. Persistent worry, despair, sleeplessness, and narcotic cravings are a few of these symptoms. However, they are typically milder than acute withdrawal symptoms.

Opiates are among the most commonly abused substances in the United States. As the opiate epidemic continues, more people may become trapped in addiction. Our addiction center strives to offer our clients a safe and comfortable form of detox for opiate addiction. It's important to keep in mind that individual results may vary significantly and that this outline is merely an approximate guideline. Moreover, receiving medical care and assistance via our opiate detoxification program can help manage the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and increase the chances of a full recovery. This process can be aided by medication, counseling, and other professional support. Get counsel from a medical professional if you or someone you know is considering an opiate detox.

How Long Does Detox Treatment Take?

The length of stay for an inpatient detox program varies based on the substance used and individual experiences and needs. Detox can last anywhere from a few days (3, 5, 7, 10-day detox) to a few weeks, depending on the substance. Once stabilized through the detox process, patients typically enter an inpatient rehab program at the same facility. Here, they attend therapy sessions and learn techniques for long-term recovery.

Factors Influencing Detox Duration

Several factors influence the duration of detox treatment:

  • Substance used: Different substances have different detox timelines.
  • Individual experiences and needs: Personal health, history of addiction, and mental health can all affect detox duration.
  • Severity of dependence: More severe dependencies may require longer detox periods.

Post-Detox Steps

After completing detox, patients usually transition to an inpatient rehab program. This next step is crucial for:

  • Therapy: Engaging in individual and group therapy sessions to address underlying issues.
  • Skills for Recovery: Learning techniques and strategies to maintain long-term sobriety.

Getting into treatment is easy with our free insurance verification

"*" indicates required fields

Consent to Text*
Consent to Call*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Insurance Considerations

Insurance may cover all or part of the detox and rehab program, depending on your coverage. It's essential to verify your insurance details to understand what is covered.

In summary, while the duration of opiate withdrawals can be unpredictable and prolonged, structured detox programs offer a clearer timeline and a pathway to rehabilitation and recovery. Understanding the factors that influence detox duration and being aware of subsequent steps and insurance considerations can help in navigating the treatment process effectively.

Why Is Withdrawal So Painful?

Withdrawal can be painful because it symbolizes the body's reaction to the abrupt absence or reduction of a substance to which it has grown used. Regular long-term use of a chemical causes the body to adjust to its presence, altering neurotransmitter levels, receptor sensitivity, and general physiological functioning. When the chemical is suddenly removed, these adaptations are disrupted, causing a spike in pain and anxiety.

Withdrawal symptoms are made worse by the body's attempts to restore equilibrium. Neurochemical imbalances, heightened sensitivity to pain stimuli, and dysregulated physiological systems all affect the severity of withdrawal symptoms. The specific qualities of the substance and the level of reliance greatly influence the severity of withdrawals. For instance, medicines like opioids and benzodiazepines can produce particularly severe withdrawal symptoms due to their potent effects on the central nervous system. Ultimately, withdrawal is proof of the intricate relationships between the body, the brain, and the substance. It emphasizes the importance of professional help and intervention to handle this challenging phase of recovery successfully.

Banyan’s Opiate Detox Program

Opiate detox can be perilous, even with home remedies. Mental obsession and medical complications are significant risks during withdrawal. Seeking medical supervision is crucial to mitigate these dangers. For safe and successful detox, we offer medical supervision ensuring patient comfort and long-term success. Our experienced medical staff provides round-the-clock monitoring, handles complications, and administers medications to ease discomfort.

Our controlled environment minimizes exposure to triggers and supports patients through physical and psychological symptoms, fostering a solid foundation for sobriety. While detox is just the beginning, it's a crucial step toward achieving and maintaining sobriety.

Our opiate addiction treatment plan prioritizes comprehensive therapy, education, family support, and aftercare programs. We aim to bolster our client's recovery journey by providing continuous support and encouragement. Begin your journey to recovery with us today.

If you or someone you know is struggling with opiate addiction or abuse, help is just a phone call away. Call Banyan Treatment Centers now, we are here to help: (888) 709-0683

What Facilities Offer Detox?

Sources:

Related Readings: