The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that heroin is an addictive drug with a high propensity for abuse. According to trends reported from a 2008 survey, a significant amount of individuals age 12 and older have abused heroin at least once in a given year.
MayoClinic.com indicates heroin addiction can cause serious withdrawal symptoms when stopped. Symptoms of heroin withdrawal may include high blood pressure, tremors and pain in various parts of the body. Detox from heroin is possible in an addiction recovery facility or at home. Physician consultation is suggested prior to starting detox.
Step 1
Decide the type of detox facility to attend. The Recovery Connection explains that attending a medically supervised detox program is strongly encouraged. A variety of facilities offer recovery programs; however, for initial heroin detox, a facility that offers medically supervised support is usually recommended.
The website Heroin Detox explains that rapid detox verses regular medical detox is an option in some recovery facilities. Medical detox involves monitoring the process in a hospital and use of medications to manage symptoms. Rapid detox is usually pain-free, and the addict detoxes while under anesthesia. Rapid detox is designed to be a quick process that typically lasts less than two days.
Step 2
Attend your detox appointment with chosen facility. Recovery Connection explains that the comprehensive medical staff available around the clock is beneficial during detox. Additionally, the structure offered in a monitored facility aids in reducing return to using and the initial cravings associated with detox.
Step 3
Set up ongoing recovery and support. During the initial phase of detox, you may not feel like reaching out for support. However, this is a key element in maintaining your recovery efforts once the drug is fully out of your body. Discuss the inpatient and outpatient treatment options with the facility you attend for detox. The website Heroin Help indicates that the destruction from heroin addiction is often difficult to overcome alone. MayoClinic.com further indicates that ongoing therapies may help you stay sober while teaching you how to overcome your addiction to heroin.
Step 4
Maintain your nutrition during the detox. The detox process depletes your body. The University of Maryland Medical Center encourages eating healthy meals and staying hydrated with low-sugar drinks to prevent nutritional disruptions. You may not want to eat while struggling with severe withdrawal, but it is essential to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Step 5
Follow up with your recovery team and physician. After detox is complete, maintain your appointments for recovery follow up and visit your primary care physician. MayoClinic.com suggests sticking with your treatment plan of sobriety. Start working on your relapse prevention plan during and after detox to set a firm foundation for long-term recovery success.
Tips and Warnings
- Withdrawal symptoms are often uncomfortable and vary depending on use pattern, the University of Maryland Medical Center says.
- Home detox is an option, but it is not suggested for heroin withdrawal given the severe symptoms that can occur. If you choose home detox, do so after thoroughly speaking with your physician, who may provide medications to help decrease the severity of symptoms. During home detox, follow the prescriptions exactly as written to avoid accidental overdose. Detox attempts do not always signify end of addiction. If relapse occurs, try again.
