Opiate Withdrawal Timeline

One of the most challenging aspects of recovery from opiate addiction is the withdrawal process. Many of our patients want to know what to expect from the opiate withdrawal process. However, no two people have the same withdrawal experience. The timeline for opiate withdrawal depends on a variety of factors and differs between individuals. That is why effective treatments for opiate addiction cannot take a “one size fits all” approach. Understanding the typical symptoms of opiate withdrawal can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

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Why Opiate Withdrawal Occurs

Opiate addiction does not develop overnight, and the same is right for recovery from the drug. Opiates — whether heroin or prescription painkillers — exert their effects by crossing the blood-brain barrier and acting on specific brain areas. The opiate molecules bind to particular receptors in the brain’s limbic system, which is responsible for processing rewards and emotional information. When these receptors are activated, they trigger the “rush” or euphoric sensations experienced by opiate users.

Over time, however, the brain becomes numb to the effects of opiates. As the brain and body begin to expect frequent doses of the drug, they prepare a compensatory response. This is the reason why it takes more and more of the drug to achieve the same effect. When the drug is no longer taken, and the body does not get its usual dose, the result is a collection of physical and psychological symptoms.

What to Expect from Opiate Withdrawal

Opiate withdrawal symptoms typically start within a few hours of the drug leaving the bloodstream—the peak between 5 and 10 days. After a few weeks, most people have no residual symptoms, although some people have reported experiencing a post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) that lasts up to a few months. While individuals have commonly described PAWS in the recovery community as something real, the disorder is not recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders or any other significant medical association. The severity and duration of the opiate withdrawal symptoms can depend on the length of opiate dependence, dosage, metabolism, the drug of abuse, how drugs are taken, and other factors.

Risks of Opiate Withdrawal

Going “cold turkey” can be dangerous for some opiate users. Patients run the risk of severe dehydration or elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, opiate withdrawal can cause heart irregularities that may be dangerous for patients with certain chronic medical conditions. Professional medical attention is suggested to keep one safe during the opiate withdrawal process. For example, medical detox protocols help remove opiates from your system and safely manage withdrawal symptoms.

Perhaps one of the most prominent disadvantages of going “cold turkey” is the high likelihood of relapse. Due to the extreme discomfort, some might not even complete the withdrawal process. Professional medical detox is more likely to result in a positive, safe, and effective manner to obtain an opiate-free life—the Waismann Method ® located exclusively in So. California has successfully treated thousands of patients and medically assisted them overcome opiate withdrawal symptoms.

"Waismann Method was like no other program out there. If you're trying to stop opiod addiction and you need to get back to life as soon as possible this is the way to go. I'm not going to sugar coat it and say it's easy, but it is definitely easier than going through withdrawals or posibly an overdose. If you're serious about being done with your addiction waismann method is truly the best. From the start they treat you with the outmost respect and professionalism. I recommend this place 100%"

"I have a very loud voice & I am going to shout to the people who are dealing with this beast but just can’t get through the withdrawal nor the beast of burden called TREATMENT CENTERS, let your ears hear me !!!"

"This place gave me my life back!! Methadone takes over 30 days to get out of your system and they got it out in one day!! The people there are literally miracle workers!! Go Here and keep up with your vividtrol and you can be free and clean!! I would give this place 10 stars if I could "

"A dear friend underwent rapid detox at the Waismann Method and all we can say is “THANK YOU”. My friend had (for years) been in a seemingly endless cycle of rehab and relapse. Even at some of the top rehabs, he still seemed to find his way back to opiates. I’m so grateful to say that it’s been almost a full year since his treatment at the Waismann Method and he is better than ever! He is finally himself again. Thank you to the caring, knowledgeable, warm and patient staff that supported and assisted my friend from start to finish! It was a blessing that we heard about the Waismann Method - our only wish is that we tried it sooner!"

"I have heard first hand from people who have gone through the Waismann rapid detox and they said it changed their life. They no longer felt like drug addicts and were treated like patients. Thank you Dr. Lowenstein and staff for all you do!"

"I'm so grateful that I came across the Waismann Institute. It saved a family members life and I will forever be thankful to all the hard work and dedication of the entire staff there! Well worth EVERY penny! The therapist at the Waismann Method was amazing. The breakthroughs that were made were tremendous. The staff encourages you along the way and were incredibly patient with our family and all the questions we had. They really care about the individual seeking treatment because they were always there - every step of the way! Not only is my family member sober, but he is happier than I have ever seen him in years. In all honesty, he is living the life he has always deserved. Thank you Waismann for giving him back a life worth living!"

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DISCLAIMER: The text presented on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is for your information only and may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Be advised that Opiates.com articles are derived from various sources and may not reflect your own country’s regulations.