Heroin abuse is a serious problem in the United States. Not only can it cause potentially life-threatening health complications, but the abuse often impairs a person’s ability to function in daily life. Many people addicted to heroin would like to stop using the drug, but uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms may keep them returning to the drug. Individuals wishing to stop using heroin should contact a doctor or explore medical drug treatment programs to make the withdrawal process safer and easier.
Symptoms
Symptoms of heroin withdrawal include diarrhea, vomiting, chills, muscle pain, bone pain, restlessness, insomnia and involuntary kicking movements of the legs.
Time Frame
Major withdrawal symptoms usually peak between 48 to 72 hours after the last time the person used the drug. Many people find withdrawal symptoms lessening after a week, but some may experience withdrawal symptoms for several months. Cravings for heroin may persistent for years after stopping the drug, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, or NIDA.
Risks
Heroin withdrawal is generally less dangerous than alcohol or barbiturate withdrawal, explains NIDA, but still may prove fatal in individuals in poor health. Participating in a medically-assisted detoxification program can help those struggling with heroin addiction stop using the drug safely.
Considerations
Suddenly stopping the use of heroin during pregnancy may be life-threatening to the unborn baby, according to the March of Dimes. Pregnant women who wish to stop using heroin should consult a doctor about treatment options. Pregnant women who continue to use heroin throughout the pregnancy may cause their babies to experience heroin withdrawal after birth. These newborns typically show withdrawal symptoms within three days after being born. Heroin withdrawal symptoms in newborns include fever, sneezing, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, continual crying, trembling and seizures. The more the mother used heroin during pregnancy, the more severe the symptoms. These babies are also at a greater risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
Misconceptions
Detoxification programs provide assistance at getting through the withdrawal process, but are not effective at treating heroin addiction alone. Individuals who wish to stop using heroin completely should seek additional treatment options such as medication, drug rehabilitation centers or substance abuse counseling.
Warning
Most opiate overdose deaths occur in individuals who have just gone through the withdrawal or detoxification process, according to MedlinePlus. Withdrawal reduces tolerance for heroin, so those who have just gone through this process may not realize they can overdose on a much smaller amount than they normally would have taken.
