Opiate Detox

Opiates, like heroin, prescription opioids (i.e. oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, etc.), and synthetic fentanyl, are highly addictive drugs that bind to receptors in the brain. Opioids affect basic physiological functioning like heart rate, sleep patterns, as well as breathing. Additionally, opioid use creates a false sensation of pleasure by flooding the brain with chemicals like dopamine. There is a current opioid crisis in the United States, with statistics from the National Institute on Drug Abuse stating 115 Americans dying of an opioid overdose each day.

Discontinuing Opiate Use

Because opioids are extremely addictive, it is difficult to stop abusing them on your own. Most opioid abusers need comprehensive treatment in order to overcome their addiction, which starts with a medical detox. The physical pain associated with stopping any form of opioid often leads users to use again despite negative consequences. Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights offers medication-assisted detox in our facility so as to make the detox process as painless and safe as possible. We offer non-addictive medication options to manage the pain faced during withdrawal.

Effects of Opiates on the Mind/Body

As some of the most potent and habit-forming narcotics available, opioids have major side effects after being abused. With withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild to severe, detoxing from opioids is indeed best performed at our medical detox center with 24/7 medical supervision. Opioid abuse history, age, coexisting medical conditions, and health status all affect withdrawal symptoms. No matter your individual circumstances, our medical team is highly trained and well-equipped to manage your withdrawal symptoms and ensure your safety during the detox process and beyond.

Short Term Effects of Opioid Use:

• Lethargy/drowsiness
• Paranoia
• Depression
• Nausea

Long Term Effects of Opioid Use:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Liver and brain damage
• Tolerance/dependence

Do I Have an Opioid Addiction?

If you are unsure whether you have an addiction to opioids, please see these warning signs below:

• “Doctor shopping” for multiple prescriptions
• Snorting or injecting pills to increase effects
• Planning activities around opioid use
• Engaging in high-risk behaviors
• Loss of interest in activities
• Continuing to use despite negative effects or consequences
• Withdrawal symptoms and/or cravings

If you or someone you love shows these warning signs, medical help to safely detox is necessary.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms start to occur within the first six to seven hours after the last use, peak in severity around 72-hours and can persist for roughly one week. As a result, a controlled environment, like our medical detox facility, is the best setting for a safe and comfortable detoxification. With medical treatment, symptoms are more effectively regulated. Royal Life Centers at Spokane Heights encourages guests to continue treatment after their stay at our medical detox facility, to greatly improve their chances of lasting sobriety.

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms may include:

• Depression
• Stomach cramps
• Severe muscle and bone pain
• Sleep problems
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Hot and cold flashes with goosebumps
• Uncontrollable leg movements
• Severe cravings

After Medical Detox

After medical detox, our team highly suggests continuing treatment to overcome substance abuse. Medical detox is only the first step of recovery; in fact, comprehensive treatment is often necessary. From working with a case manager, therapist, as well as joining in group therapy sessions, guests will begin the real work of learning how to live without drugs or alcohol. Following detox, guests may move into our residential inpatient program. Each aftercare plan is carefully determined by the clinical team, case manager, and the guest to ensure successful individualized treatment.

If you or a loved one is suffering from an opioid addiction or any substance use disorder, please reach out to us at (877)-RECOVERY or (888) 907-0898 to speak with one of our knowledgeable addiction specialists, who are available to you 24/7. Because We Care.