A large number of people in the United States reported using heroin during the past year and an even greater number of people reported using narcotic pain relievers without a prescription.
Narcotic pain relievers include:
- Codeine
- Heroin
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- Methadone
- Meperidine (Demerol)
- Morphine
- Oxycodone (Percocet or Oxycontin)
These drugs can cause physical dependence. This means that a person relies on the drug to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Over time, more of the drug is needed for the same effect. This is called drug tolerance. How long it takes to become physically dependent varies with each person.
When the person stops taking the drugs, the body needs time to recover. This causes withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal from opiates can occur any time long-term use is stopped or cut back.
Common withdrawal symptoms from Opioids within the initial 12 hours:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Excessive sweating
Common withdrawal symptoms from Opioids within the initial 12 – 96 hours:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
- Blurry vision
- Abdominal pain
- Rapid heartbeat
At IHAT our medical professionals will do everything they can to help alleviate these withdrawal symptoms during the course of your treatment. Buprenorphine, Buprenorphine/Naloxone, and other medications will eliminate many of these common withdrawal issues. You can always reach out to us if you are feeling sick or are discouraged in any way and we will assist you at any time during your treatment.
