Opiate Detox
Detoxification does not address the emotional causes of addictive behavior or provide relapse prevention, but rather eliminates the toxins in the body that underlie the physical addiction, a necessary early step toward sobriety. The goals of detox are:
- Providing a safe withdrawal from the drug of dependence
- Establishing a process that is compassionate and confidential
- Preparation for the next phase of opiate or heroin treatment
Opiate Detox
Opiates include heroin, morphine, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), codeine and methadone, and require similar withdrawal treatment at drug rehabilitation centers. The severity of symptoms depends on the kind of opiate, the daily dosage level, length of use and interval between doses. Withdrawal generally takes five-seven days with the symptoms can be grouped into four categories:
- Gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
- Pain in joints and muscles, and abdominal cramping
- Anxiety
- Sleeplessness
