At California Addiction Treatment, we understand the immense challenges associated with overcoming heroin abuse and heroin addiction. Our heroin detox program in Huntington Beach is specifically designed to provide personalized, compassionate care tailored to your individual needs. Our dedicated team of addiction professionals is committed to helping you break free from substance use disorder and reclaim your life through evidence-based treatment programs.
What is
Heroin Dependence?
Heroin addiction is a complex condition characterized by a strong compulsion to use heroin, an inability to control consumption, and the development of physical and psychological dependence. Heroin is an opioid drug derived from morphine, and it can have powerful effects on the brain and central nervous system. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 660,000 people in the United States used heroin in the past year, with 587,000 individuals aged 12 or older diagnosed with heroin use disorder.
People can become quickly and severely addicted to heroin, and it is considered one of the most difficult addictions to overcome. Over time, heroin addiction can lead to increased tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects, and can have significant physical and psychological consequences. This relapsing brain disease affects opioid receptors in the brain, creating both psychological dependence and physical dependence. The age-adjusted rate of drug overdose deaths involving heroin decreased 33.3% from 1.8 per 100,000 in 2022 to 1.2 per 100,000 in 2023, though it remains a significant public health concern. Early professional intervention is crucial for successful recovery. Our medical detoxification program can help those suffering from heroin abuse and substance use disorder.
What are
the Signs and Symptoms of Heroin Addiction?
Signs and symptoms of heroin addiction and substance use disorder can vary, but some common indicators include:
- Intense cravings for heroin
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Social isolation or loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appearance or poor personal hygiene
- Financial difficulties or legal issues related to drug use
- Track marks or bruising from injections
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs and symptoms, it is essential to seek help immediately.
What are
Common Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms?
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity and duration, depending on factors such as the duration and intensity of use, individual genetics, and overall health. Opioid withdrawal syndrome typically begins within 8-24 hours after last use and can last 4-10 days for acute symptoms, with peak symptoms occurring between 48-72 hours. This withdrawal process affects the central nervous system as the body adjusts to functioning without the substance.
Common heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Intense cravings for heroin
- Anxiety or agitation
- Muscle aches and pains
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cold sweats or goosebumps
- Rapid heart rate
Although opioid withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, it is generally not life-threatening. However, proper medical supervision and detox services are crucial for a safe and successful detoxification process.
What are
Common Medications Used in Heroin Detox?
Several medications may be used during heroin detox to manage withdrawal symptoms and support recovery. Some common medications include:
A long-acting opioid agonist that can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Methadone is currently considered the gold standard in MAT and can be started at any stage of withdrawal.
A partial opioid agonist that can also help to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Buprenorphine (including Suboxone) is currently the second most effective MAT in harm reduction and relapse prevention and can be initiated and maintained through primary care. Suboxone® combines buprenorphine with naloxone to prevent misuse.
An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of heroin and other opioids at the receptors, reducing the risk of relapse. Naltrexone (including Revia) is also available as an extended-release injection for improved adherence.
A non-opioid medication that can help to manage anxiety, agitation, and other withdrawal symptoms.
What are
the Steps in the Heroin Detox Process?
The heroin detox process is the first step toward recovering from heroin addiction. It involves clearing toxins from the body that have accumulated due to prolonged substance use. The detoxification process is medically supervised, and it’s important to seek professional help for a safe and successful drug detox process.
The first step is to evaluate the patient to determine the level of addiction and the appropriate treatment method. This is done by running a series of tests and evaluations and also reviewing the individual’s medical history.
Medication-assisted detox involves administering medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. The medication may include methadone or buprenorphine. The medication is administered under close medical supervision.
Detox is the type of detox that occurs in an inpatient setting. Patients are required to stay in a rehab facility under close medical supervision. Outpatient detox is a less restrictive form of detox that occurs on an outpatient basis. Patients attend daily appointments with their healthcare provider.
Therapy is an important aspect of the heroin detox process. It involves counseling and group therapy to address the root cause of the addiction.
Heroin detox is the first step toward a successful recovery from heroin addiction. The process should be supervised by medical professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness. Therapy is important in the detox process to address the root cause of addiction.
Can You
Detox From Heroin at Home?
While it may be tempting to try detoxing from heroin at home, it is not recommended due to the potential risks and challenges associated with heroin withdrawal. Without proper medical supervision and detox services, withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and may increase the risk of relapse. Additionally, individuals may not have access to the proper tools and behavioral health support needed for safe detoxification.
At California Addiction Treatment, we provide a safe and supportive and healing environment for individuals to detox from heroin and other opioids. Our addiction professionals are experienced in helping individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and we provide a range of medical detoxification, behavioral health, and emotional support to ensure that the detoxification process is as comfortable and successful as possible. Our comprehensive approach addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of substance use disorder.
Heroin Detox Program in Huntington Beach
At California Addiction Treatment, we understand the challenges of heroin addiction and the importance of detoxing in a safe and supportive and healing environment. Our heroin addiction treatment program is designed to offer personalized care for each patient through our holistic and integrative approach. We take a comprehensive approach that combines medical detoxification with evidence-based treatment programs and behavioral therapies to help patients find lasting sobriety from substance use disorder.
Our treatment program includes inpatient detox programs, outpatient programs, intensive outpatient programs, and long-term therapy options. We also provide holistic therapies, support groups, and comprehensive aftercare planning to support your recovery journey. Our heroin rehab center follows all HIPAA regulations to ensure your privacy and confidentiality throughout treatment.
If you or a loved one are struggling with heroin addiction, don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information about our heroin addiction rehab program. Our experienced team of addiction professionals is here to help with substance abuse treatment and recovery services. To learn more, contact us today!
Dr. Deena Manion LCSW #20628, a Doctor of Psychology and Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1993, is the Co-Founder of California Addiction Treatment Center. She brings extensive experience in addiction and mental health from her previous roles at prominent recovery centers and her private practice in Los Angeles and Agoura Hills, CA. Dr. Deena has also appeared as an expert on Dr. Phil’s show and podcast, as well as various other TV programs and documentaries, sharing her expertise in mental health and addiction. Her goal is to leverage her clinical skills in the entertainment industry to reach a wider audience, making her a valuable asset in the field.
