Heroin Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, & Treatment

What is the most important information I should know about heroin withdrawal?

• Pharmacological treatments can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve your chances of recovery from heroin use disorder.
• Relapsing after heroin withdrawal increases the risk of overdose, so it is essential to have a plan for long-term recovery.

Overview of Heroin Withdrawal

• Heroin is an illicit drug that is highly addictive.
• When people stop using heroin, they will experience withdrawal symptoms if they have become physically dependent on the substance.
• Withdrawal symptoms can also appear following heavy use.
• Physically, heroin withdrawal may feel like having the flu.
• More severe symptoms can also occur, such as difficulty breathing, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

How Long Will Heroin Withdrawal Last?

• The initial comedown of heroin withdrawal can vary in time and intensity.
• Typically, withdrawal symptoms will begin 6 to 12 hours after the last dose, peaking within 1 to 3 days, and gradually subsiding over 5 to 7 days.
• However, some people experience weeks or months of withdrawal symptoms, known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).

Signs & Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal

• Everyone’s experience of heroin withdrawal is different but some common symptoms include:
  • Fever
  • Heroin cravings
  • Mood changes
  • Aches and pains
  • Excessive bodily fluids
  • Diarrhea and stomach pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Restlessness and sleep problems

Coping & Relief for Heroin Withdrawal

• Some things that you can do to help yourself feel more comfortable during withdrawal include:
  • Ask for help
  • Stay hydrated
  • Stay busy
  • Manage symptoms with OTC medications
  • Try acupuncture

Long-Term Treatment

• Following acute heroin withdrawal, people typically go through a protracted period lasting around six months when they often experience intense drug cravings and reduced feelings of wellness.
• Such treatments can include behavioral therapies and pharmacological treatments.
• Medications that may be used include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
• Behavioral approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and contingency management are two types of therapy that are often used to treat heroin addiction.

Resources

• In addition to friends and medical professionals, there are also online resources that can help you during heroin withdrawal.
• Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous offer information and resources that can help you during your recovery.