Opioid detox is the initial and essential phase of the journey to recovery from opioid addiction. This process involves the removal of opioids from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms in a safe and controlled environment.

What are Opioids 

Opioids are a class of drugs that interact with opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. They can be naturally derived from the opium poppy plant (like morphine and codeine), synthetically manufactured (like fentanyl and methadone), or semi-synthetic (like oxycodone and hydrocodone). 

While they are effective in relieving pain, opioids also carry a high risk of dependence and addiction due to their ability to produce feelings of euphoria. Their use can lead to serious health consequences, including overdose and death, particularly when misused or combined with other substances. 

Types of Opioids

Opioids encompass a range of substances categorized by their origin and production. Natural opiates, like morphine and codeine, are directly derived from the opium poppy plant. 

Semi-synthetic opioids, including prescription medications such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and hydromorphone, as well as the illicit drug heroin, are created in laboratories from natural opiates. 

Finally, synthetic opioids, such as methadone, tramadol, fentanyl, and buprenorphine, are entirely man-made. This classification system helps distinguish between the various types of opioids and understand their respective origins and chemical compositions. 

Opioids vs. Opiates

The distinction between opioids and opiates lies in their origins. Opiates are a specific subset of opioids, referring exclusively to natural compounds derived directly from the opium poppy plant, such as morphine and codeine. 

Opioid, on the other hand, is a broader term encompassing all substances, both natural and synthetic, that interact with opioid receptors in the brain. This includes not only opiates but also semi-synthetic opioids, which are created in laboratories from natural opiates like oxycodone and heroin, and synthetic opioids, which are entirely man-made, such as fentanyl and methadone. Therefore, while all opiates are considered opioids, the term “opioids” encompasses a wider range of substances with similar effects.

Commonly Prescribed Opioid Painkillers:

• Oxycodone (OxyContin or Percocet).
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin).
• Morphine.
• Oxymorphone (Opana).
• Hydromorphone (Dilaudid).
• Codeine.
• Fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic, Sublimaze).
• Tramadol (Ultram).
• Tapentadol (Nucynta).
• Meperidine (Demerol).

What to Expect During Opioid Detox

Opioid detoxification, often the first step in overcoming opioid addiction, is a challenging yet crucial process. At Hillside Retreat, individuals can expect to experience various physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms as their bodies adjust to the absence of opioids. These symptoms may include intense cravings, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

The detox duration varies from person to person, typically lasting several days to a week. Alongside medical interventions, counseling and therapy play a vital role in addressing the psychological aspects of addiction and helping individuals develop coping strategies for the challenges ahead. Opioid detox is the first step on the path to recovery, offering individuals a chance to break free from the grip of addiction and move towards a healthier, drug-free life.

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms & Timeline

Opioid withdrawal symptoms arise as the body adjusts to the absence of opioids, and their severity and timeline vary depending on the specific opioid, dosage, and duration of use. Generally, early symptoms, appearing within hours of the last dose, include muscle aches, anxiety, sweating, and runny nose. Within 24-72 hours, peak symptoms emerge, characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, chills, dilated pupils, and intense cravings.

Psychological symptoms, such as irritability, restlessness, and insomnia, are also common. While the most acute physical symptoms typically subside within a week, some individuals may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, and depression, for weeks or even months. The timeline and intensity of withdrawal underscore the importance of medically supervised detoxification to manage these symptoms safely and effectively.

How Opioids Impact the Brain & Body Long-term

Long-term opioid use can induce significant and lasting changes in both the brain and body. Chronically elevated dopamine levels disrupt the brain’s reward system, leading to tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect, and dependence, where the brain relies on the drug for normal function. Structural and functional changes in brain regions responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation contribute to addiction and increase the risk of relapse.

Physically, prolonged opioid use can lead to hormonal imbalances, impacting reproductive health and bone density. Gastrointestinal issues, such as chronic constipation, are common. The risk of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C increases due to shared needles. Long-term opioid use can contribute to mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, and increase the risk of cognitive decline.

Sources

https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/opioids

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7645309/#:~:text=Suganya%20Marudhai

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/how-opioid-drugs-activate-receptors#:~:text=Opioids%20work%20by%20activating%20opioid,%2Dcoupled%20receptors%20(GPCRs)