Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment

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Medically Verified: January 8, 2025

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All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, and Treatment

Millions of people in the United States take opioid drugs to manage pain. Opioids are highly addictive, and people may become dependent on them after short periods of abuse. It is critical to know the symptoms of opioid use disorder and seek treatment as soon as possible. 

This article will explore what happens during opioid withdrawal. You will learn:

  • How to recognize opioid abuse and addiction
  • The symptoms of opioid withdrawal
  • The opioid withdrawal timeline
  • What to expect during opioid detox treatment
  • Where to find treatment and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Living Room specialists to learn about our holistic treatment and support programs. Learn about the therapies we use to treat opioid addiction, or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today. 

Recognizing Opioid Abuse and Addiction

Opioid pain medicines are effective at relieving moderate to severe pain. These drugs are derived from the opium poppy plant. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain, affecting areas related to pain control, emotional regulation, and pleasure.

Opioid drugs can cause pleasurable side effects, including euphoria. People may like the way they feel while taking opioids. Some people abuse their prescription drugs or use illegal opioid drugs recreationally. 

Opioid abuse can quickly become a life-threatening addiction. It is critical to recognize the signs of addiction and seek treatment as soon as possible. 

Common signs of opioid addiction include:

  • Finishing a prescription early
  • Exhibiting mood swings or unusual behaviors
  • Significant changes in their appetite, appearance, or sleep habits
  • Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
  • Isolating or spending time with a new group of friends
  • Losing interest in hobbies
  • Stealing prescription drugs, money, or valuables
  • Having multiple prescriptions for opioids

People may become addicted to opioids after abusing them for a short period. People who abuse opioids may require long-term treatment and support to stop using these drugs and avoid relapse. 

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

Opioids slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. Over time, people who abuse opioids may develop physical dependence. This means a person’s body requires opioids to function.

If someone with opioid dependence suddenly stops taking these drugs, they are likely to experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. 

Opioid withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Muscle aches
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Yawning
  • Agitation
  • Runny nose
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia
  • Goosebumps
  • Watery eyes
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Depression
  • Chills
  • Inability to concentrate or focus

Some people may experience dangerous side effects, like suicidal thoughts, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat. Medical treatment and supervision are essential to a person’s safety during detox. 

Opioid Withdrawal Timeline

Opioid withdrawal can be very challenging. Many people experience severe physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms that can last for long periods of time. 

But how long does opioid withdrawal last? Understanding what to expect during each stage of opioid withdrawal may keep you motivated when things are challenging.

Many factors can affect the severity and length of a person’s withdrawal symptoms when they stop using opioids. They can depend on the type of opioid someone used, how long they have had opioid dependence and more.

Here is an example of the typical opioid withdrawal timeline.

6 to 12 hours

People using short-acting opioids may experience symptoms within just a few hours of their last dose. Physical and mental health symptoms may develop quickly and peak in intensity during the first few days of detox. 

12 to 72 hours

Withdrawal symptoms may begin or peak during this period. Symptoms may include:

  • Nausea
  • Muscle aches
  • Mood swings
  • Chills

The risk of relapse is high during this time. Medical treatment and supervision are essential to completing detox. 

One week

Many people notice their symptoms beginning to improve after about a week. Physical symptoms may get better, but psychological symptoms like depression or irritability may linger for 14 days or more.

One month

Withdrawal symptoms like depression, restlessness, and insomnia can linger for weeks or months. Many people continue to struggle with cravings, as well. It is essential to continue treatment and have long-term support.

Opioid detox can be challenging, but having support, treatment, and supervision can help you navigate this challenge. Contact The Living Room intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

Treatment During Opioid Detox

People who attempt an at-home opioid detox are unlikely to be successful. Opioid withdrawal can be very challenging, and most people require significant treatment and support to get through it without relapsing.

A medically-supported detox program can offer the treatment people need to have a safe, successful opioid detox. A medically supervised detox program may include:

  • Medications like suboxone, methadone, or buprenorphine to help manage withdrawal symptoms
  • Emotional support, including individual counseling
  • Holistic therapies like nutrition support, mindfulness, and yoga to soothe the mind and body
  • Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment

Many opioid detox programs last 5 to 7 days. However, each person’s treatment plan will differ and include targeted therapies to meet their unique needs. 

After completing detox, people must continue a comprehensive treatment program to address the underlying roots of their addiction and help them develop the skills to avoid relapse. 

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at The Living Room to learn about our treatment and recovery support programs or to make an intake appointment. 

References:

  1. National Institute of Health (NIH): The Changing Opioid Crisis: development, challenges and opportunities
  2. NIH: Review article: Effective management of opioid withdrawal symptoms: A gateway to opioid dependence treatment
  3. Science Direct: Opioid withdrawal symptoms, frequency, and pain characteristics as correlates of health risk among people who inject drugs

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