Heroin is a highly addictive opioid that wreaks havoc on the lives of users, sadly causing many fatal overdoses. Those addicted to heroin want to get clean but may be apprehensive about going through the uncomfortable process of withdrawal. Nevertheless, detox is still important, and we can offer support along the way.
The Retreat of Atlanta provides hope to these individuals by offering comprehensive heroin detox in Eatonton, Georgia. Our care team aids in making withdrawal symptoms more tolerable and cravings more manageable. We also set the stage for long-term abstinence from heroin.
What is Heroin Detox in Eatonton, Georgia Like?
The Retreat of Atlanta is proud to offer effective inpatient drug detox programs. Our programs are medically supervised and provide hands-on monitoring and support to our clients. During this process, our qualified staff of addiction experts administers specific detox medications to ease pain and cravings. These medications combined with a high level of structure reduce the risk of relapse.
This combination lays the foundation for a successful recovery. The Retreat of Atlanta provides a secure and nurturing environment. We also offer private and semi-private bedrooms and bathrooms to ensure our clients feel at ease while staying in our heroin detox center. Finally, we offer a variety of leisure activities to distract individuals from their discomfort.
How Long Does It Take To Detox From Heroin?
Heroin is a short-acting opioid, meaning it enters and leaves the bloodstream quickly. Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms first surface only six to 12 hours after a person’s last dose of heroin. These symptoms peak within 72 hours, meaning side effects and cravings are most severe during this time. Symptoms generally subside after five to 10 days.
Despite this, however, post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) can persist for months following detox. Fortunately, these symptoms are usually mild. They include cravings, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of anxiety. Thankfully, those who undergo detox safely at a licensed facility are far less likely to develop PAWS.
Heroin Detox Symptoms
Heroin withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the person and the severity of their addiction. This makes the detox process emotionally and physically draining. Therefore, it isn’t ideal to detox at home. Unfortunately, an individual can become medically unstable while in withdrawal without proper medical supervision. They also face a higher risk of relapse as their cravings can quickly grow out of their control.
During heroin detox in Eatonton, Georgia, clients are likely to experience a combination of the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Runny nose
- Muscle aches
- Restless legs
- Bone aches
- Fever and cold sweats
- Extreme cravings
- Anxiety
- Increased heart rate and high blood pressure
Heroin Detox Medications Used in Eatonton, Georgia
Our qualified medical team administers specific detox medications to help individuals maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. These medications accomplish this by relieving cravings and reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms. For example, methadone is one of the most common drugs used in heroin detox, as it “tricks” the brain into believing a person is still using heroin. However, this opioid agonist does not result in a “high” or give a synthetic sense of euphoria.
Individuals are safely tapered off of methadone as treatment progresses. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that acts similarly to methadone. However, it is not as potent and is more suitable for long-term use. Another commonly administered medication is naltrexone. It prevents individuals from getting high by blocking the actions of opioids.
Additionally, patients receive anti-nausea medications to relieve the unpleasant stomach symptoms that often occur during heroin detox. Also, antidepressants help individuals cope with the depression and anxiety often associated with withdrawal.
Why Detox at a Medical Facility?
Detoxing is an essential step in the recovery process. However, getting clean can be nerve-wracking, what with the withdrawal symptoms produce. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous, especially for those attempting to detox at home.
This is because quitting “cold turkey,” without medical supervision, can induce withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Hallucinations
- Wild mood swings
- Intense cravings for heroin
These symptoms, on top of any underlying health issues, can prove a fatal combination. In addition, intense cravings can lead to a relapse.
So Why Choose a Medical Facility for Detox?
Medical detox facilities help prevent relapse by offering emotional and physical support. Also, unpleasant withdrawal symptoms are treated and monitored. Furthermore, a medical detox helps to remove the “triggers” that often lead to relapse.
Unfortunately, it is common for patients to experience anxiety and depression during detox. These symptoms typically fade as the detox process progresses, but if they don’t, a medical detox facility provides access to appropriate services.
In short, medical detox offers patients:
- A safe way to detox
- Medical supervision
- Effective treatment of withdrawal symptoms
- Relapse prevention
What Happens After Heroin Detox?
Following heroin detox in Eatonton, Georgia, individuals will want to pursue comprehensive heroin addiction treatment. Inpatient rehab is highly recommended for those leaving a detox program. After all, inpatient rehab allows individuals to focus on their recovery away from the stresses and potential triggers of the outside world.
Moreover, since each person’s experience with drug abuse is unique, we believe treatment programs should be personalized to the individual. For this reason, our staff conducts a comprehensive review of all of our clients’ medical backgrounds and needs before they arrive, ensuring that their care plan is tailored to their specific circumstances.
The Retreat of Atlanta’s programs include the following services:
- Individual therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Community therapy
- Trauma-focused therapy
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Holistic treatment options
Start Your Heroin Detox in Eatonton, Georgia Today
Instead of letting heroin run your life, seek help from The Retreat of Atlanta today. We want your stay with us to be peaceful and calming, so you can channel all of your energy into recovery. We accept TRICARE, PHCS, and Aetna insurance to help cover costs. Our specialized detox programs help those battling active addiction adopt a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. Reach out to speak with an admissions specialist to learn more about our Georgia-based facility.
We are always here to answer your questions and assist you in taking the next step on your road to recovery. To get started today, give us a call or visit our admissions page.
