Opioid Withdrawal Timeline and Symptoms

People who struggle with opioid abuse are very likely to experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when they stop using them. Read on to find out what opioids are, their common withdrawal symptoms, and what the average opioid withdrawal timeline looks like.

What is Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioid withdrawal refers to physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person dependent on opioids stops using opioids, or significantly reduces their opioid intake. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. When people use opioids regularly over an extended period, their bodies become dependent on these substances, leading to changes in the brain's chemistry.

When someone abruptly stops or reduces opioid use, their body reacts negatively because it has gotten used to the presence of opioids. This results in a range of withdrawal symptoms, which can be highly uncomfortable. The severity and duration of opioid withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on several factors, including the type of opioid used, the dosage, the length of use, and the individual's physical makeup and health.

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What Causes Opioid Dependence?

Opioid dependence, also known as opioid use disorder (OUD), develops as a complex interplay of physiological, psychological, and social factors. 

Here are the key factors that contribute to the development of opioid dependence:

Repeated Opioid Use: The main factor leading to opioid dependence is the repeated use of opioids. Opioids, whether prescribed for pain relief or used illegally, activate the brain's reward system and provide pleasure. Over time, individuals may continue to use opioids to seek these pleasurable effects.

Neurochemical Changes: Opioids work by binding to specific receptors in the brain known as opioid receptors. When opioids bind to these receptors, they release neurotransmitters like dopamine, which are associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. Repeated opioid use can lead to chemical changes in the brain, changing the brain's reward system. This can reinforce drug-seeking behavior.

Tolerance: As individuals use opioids constantly, they often develop tolerance, which means they need ever-increasing amounts of the drug to get the desired effect. Tolerance can lead to escalating opioid use as individuals try to recreate the initial high.

Physical Dependence: With continued opioid use, the body adapts to the presence of opioids. This adaptation leads to physical dependence, where the body needs opioids just to function normally. When opioid levels drop, people will experience withdrawal symptoms, which can be extremely uncomfortable and drive them to continue using opioids to avoid these symptoms.

Psychological Dependence: Opioid dependence also involves mental factors. The pleasurable effects of opioids can lead to cravings and compulsive drug-seeking behavior, even when there are no physical withdrawal symptoms. This psychological dependence can be a powerful motivator for continued drug use.

Genetics: Genetics can play a role in an individual's susceptibility to opioid dependence. Some people may have genetic factors that make them more prone to developing opioid use disorder when exposed to opioids.

Environmental and Social Factors: Social and environmental factors can contribute to opioid dependence. Exposure to opioids, peer pressure, trauma, and stress can all increase the likelihood of opioid abuse and dependence.

Mental Health Issues: Co-occurring mental health disorders, like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can all increase the risk of opioid dependence. Some individuals may use opioids to ease emotional or psychological pain.

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What Causes Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioids affect the release of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) such as dopamine in the brain's reward system. Chronic opioid use leads to changes in the release and function of these neurotransmitters. The brain becomes used to the presence of opioids and now needs them just to maintain a sense of balance.

When a person sows or stops opioid use and opioid levels in the bloodstream drop significantly, the brain detects the absence or tapering of opioids and understands it as a threat to the body's inner balance. This causes a series of physiological responses, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

What Are Some Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms?

The intensity of these symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some people experiencing more pain than others. 

What Is a Typical Opioid Withdrawal Timeline?

You might be wondering ‘how long do opiate withdrawals last?’ Below is the average opiate withdrawal timeline:

Days 1-2:

Symptoms typically start within 6-12 hours after the last dose. Early symptoms include cravings, restlessness, anxiety, and muscle aches. People may experience excessive yawning, sweating, and teary eyes.

Days 3-5:

Symptoms intensify during this time. Severe cravings, insomnia, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea become more pronounced.

Muscle aches and pains can be very uncomfortable.

Restlessness and anxiety may increase.

Days 6-7:

Symptoms may begin to subside gradually, although some individuals may continue to experience cravings and mood swings. Physical symptoms like muscle aches and gastrointestinal distress start to improve. Psychological symptoms like depression and anxiety may persist.

Weeks 2-4:

Most physical symptoms have subsided at this point, but some individuals may still experience lingering fatigue and depression. Cravings and emotional symptoms can persist for weeks or months, making relapse a significant risk. It's important to note that the severity and length of withdrawal can vary based on factors like an individual's history of use, the dose they were using, and their overall health. Some people may experience a milder withdrawal, while others may have a more protracted and intense withdrawal period.

Additionally, it's crucial for individuals going through opioid withdrawal to seek professional medical help and support from addiction treatment programs. Medical supervision and medications like buprenorphine [1] or methadone can help manage withdrawal symptoms and increase the chances of successful recovery. 

Can You Die from Opiates Withdrawal?

Opioid withdrawal, while extremely uncomfortable, is unlikely to result in death. Opioid withdrawal is characterized by flu-like symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, aches and pains, insomnia, runny nose and insomnia. The only two symptoms that could potentially cause death are diarrhea and vomiting, which could lead to dehydration if left untreated. Dehydration can lead to elevated sodium levels and result in heart failure.

With medical supervision, opioid withdrawal is less likely to result in death. Jail wardens should ensure that prisoners get proper medical care to avoid death during withdrawal. If you or a loved one suffer from opioid addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can help you taper off opioids safely and effectively.

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Which Medications Are Suitable for Opioid Withdrawal?

Does Gabapentin Help with Opiate Withdrawal?

Gabapentin, originally an anticonvulsant and nerve pain medication, is currently in the research phase for potential off-label use in managing chronic, non-cancer pain in patients who are either tapering off opioid treatment or have developed opioid addiction.

Since the use of gabapentin is still in the research phase, its suitability as a medication for opioid withdrawal or addiction remains uncertain. Early studies indicated that gabapentin could be effective in tapering off opioids. More recent studies found that gabapentin has the same efficacy as a placebo (fake pill) in tapering off opioids and has a high chance of misuse.

In fact, research has raised concerns that at higher doses, gabapentin may actually increase the risk of opioid-related deaths by up to 60% compared to opioid abuse alone. The uncertainty surrounding gabapentin's effectiveness and safety in the context of opioid addiction treatment has led to reduced utilization of the drug for this purpose. 

Is using Clonidine for Opioid Withdrawal Effective?

Clonidine is quite effective for opioid withdrawal. It can ease uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like sweating, hot flashes, watery eyes and restlessness. This can reduce the length of detox and decrease the chances of relapse.  Medication offers the highest chance of recovery when complemented by a comprehensive approach, including inpatient or outpatient treatment, participation in support groups, and access to professional counseling. Licensed treatment facilities like Avenues Recovery provide a well-rounded recovery plan that incorporates various elements of treatment. 

How Can I Deal with Opiate Withdrawal Insomnia?

Here are some tips to help you with opioid withdrawal insomnia:

Create a Sleep Routine:

Establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it's time to sleep. This may include activities like reading a book, taking a warm bath, and/or practicing relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment:

Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.

Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.

Remove electronic devices that emit blue light, which can interfere with sleep.

Limit Stimulants:

Avoid caffeine and nicotine, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Relaxation Techniques:

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation or aromatherapy to help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.

How Should I Treat Opioid Withdrawal and Addiction?

Treating opioid withdrawal and addiction involves a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of the addiction. 

Here are the components of a typical treatment plan:

1. Medical assessment and detoxification
2. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
3. Behavioral therapy and counseling
4. Support groups and peer support
5. Treatment for co-occurring disorders
6. Lifestyle changes
7. Relapse prevention strategies
8. Family and social support
9. Long-term follow-up and aftercare

You don’t have to struggle with addiction on your own any longer! Our highly qualified addiction specialists are very passionate about helping people just like you reach sobriety. We have helped thousands of people free themselves from the iron grip of their opioid addiction, and we can help you too! If you or a loved one suffer from opioid addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery, to hear about our personalized opioid addiction treatment plans! Be guided by the top experts in the addiction field at Avenues Recovery, and live the life you deserve.

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Sources

[1] www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov