Heroin is a highly addictive illicit drug abused for its euphoric side effects. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, heroin's contents are taken from an Asian opium poppy plant. Heroin appears as a white, brown or black substance that is injected, smoked and snorted. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health says the average age of initial heroin use is 21.8 years of age. Unfortunately, heroin is highly addictive, physically and mentally. You can experience various withdrawal signs when discontinuing heroin.
Early Signs
According to MedlinePlus, early signs of heroin withdrawal include yawning, sweating (diaphoresis), a runny nose (rhinorrhea) and trouble sleeping (insomnia). You may also experience muscle pain, agitation and anxiety. During the initial stages of withdrawal, you may experience intense and unbearable cravings for heroin. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says the major withdrawal symptoms reach its heightened stage between two to three days following your last heroin use. Usually, these side effects subside with one week.
Late Signs
MedlinePlus indicates that heroin's late withdrawal signs include stomach cramping, diarrhea, dilated pupils (mydriasis), nausea, vomiting and goosebumps (piloerection). Unfortunately, diarrhea and vomiting can promote dehydration. When you're dehydrated, your body lacks the fluid necessary to maintain electrolyte (minerals in your body) balance. Your skin gradually becomes dry and you become thirsty. Also, you don't go to the bathroom to urinate as frequently. Diarrhea and vomiting, therefore, lowers your potassium levels. Potassium is a necessary component in your body that's necessary for normal cell function. Decreased levels of potassium can result in constipation and muscular cramping. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says some people experience heroin withdrawal for one or more months.
Withdrawal Methods
You may opt to enter a detoxification center and discontinue heroin altogether. Your doctor may prescribe such medications as methadone, buprenorphine or naltrexone to help your body handle withdrawal symptoms. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, methadone is a man-made opiate medication that works on the same areas of the brain as heroine. Buprenorphine causes less serious side effects than methadone because it reduces your chances of overdose and withdrawal symptoms. Naltrexone interferes with heroin's action on the brain. Typically, this medication is prescribed at your doctor's office. Talk to your physician if you're concerned about heroin's withdrawal signs and she can prescribe medications to reduce and even eliminate them.
