Heroin and prescription drug abuse have become an epidemic. Rising addiction rates and record numbers of fatal overdoses has led the United States to issue a public health emergency to address opiate addiction. Many times, prescription opiate addiction and abuse lead to heroin addiction and heroin withdrawal symptoms. The cost of prescription opiates like OxyContin is extreme, leading many people to transition to heroin because it is more powerful and cheaper. This is when you should attend a heroin detox center in Tampa FL.
Unfortunately, additives like Fentanyl often show up in illicit heroin. The inclusion of dangerous drugs like Fentanyl to heroin has led to a significant rise in fatal and non-fatal overdoses. Accidental drug overdoses are now the leading cause of unintentional death, demonstrating the seriousness of the opiate epidemic.
Painful heroin withdrawal symptoms, such as restless legs, joint, and muscle pain and depression, can make it extremely difficult to stop using heroin without help. A South Tampa detox center provides a controlled, supervised setting to safely detox from heroin or other substances.
What is Heroin Addiction?
Heroin is a type of illicit narcotic derived from opium. Opium is always produced from poppy plants. Heroin was additionally developed in the early 1900s and was commonly used as an additive in over the counter medications. However, users soon discovered heroin to be highly addictive as well. Heroin has been illegal for decades, but recreational use and black markets have continued to flourish.
Opioids like heroin cause intense euphoria, making it highly prone to abuse and addiction. Users inhale, smoke, or inject heroin, typically sold in a powder or solid form. When you use heroin, your brain releases dopamine. However, when the effects wear off after several hours, you begin to experience a comedown, meaning that the lack of neurotransmitters causes depressive emotions and cravings.
How Are Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Treated?
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can occur within hours of your last use when you become physically addicted.
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Restless legs
- Cramps and joint and muscle pain
- Sweating and tremors
- Vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea
- Insomnia and exhaustion
- Mood changes, such as depression and anxiety
- Intense cravings
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can become overwhelming, making it easy to resume using. Medically supervised detox programs can help control and alleviate painful heroin withdrawal symptoms. Medication-assisted treatment can help control things like anxiety, depression, and insomnia, making it easier to complete detox. Treatment centers may also use holistic treatments, like yoga or meditation, to help treat withdrawal symptoms.
Following detox, you can choose to enter inpatient or outpatient treatment. Completing an addiction treatment program maximizes your chances of remaining abstinent. Inpatient programs are residential and are best if you need additional structure or are suffering from severe heroin addiction.
Finding Help Today
Heroin withdrawal symptoms can make it difficult to quit using. However, with the help of a detox center or rehab, you can find the support you need to navigate recovery. South Tampa Detox knows what it takes to recover.
