Deciding to take action against your opioid use disorder is a big step. One of the first challenges in this journey is managing withdrawal, including the physical and emotional symptoms that come when you stop or reduce opioid use. But the right evidence-based care can help lessen the negative effects.
Opioid withdrawal management involves techniques that can help you through the physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral effects of stopping or reducing opioid use. It should be done safely under the supervision of licensed health care professionals. They can help to reduce the risk of complications.
Read on to learn about treatments that are backed by evidence to help you with opioid withdrawal management. That way you can know what to expect and focus on your recovery.
What opioid withdrawal feels like
Opioid withdrawal is often described as “flu-like” and uncomfortable. It can take up to 48 hours after the last opioid dose for withdrawal symptoms to begin, which may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty sleeping
On average, opioid withdrawal can last between four days and three weeks. It’s important to be monitored by healthcare professionals during the period of withdrawal in case the symptoms worsen.
Evidence-based approaches for opioid withdrawal management
When you’re ready to be treated for opioid use disorder, start by talking to your doctor. They will help you determine what steps need to be taken. They can create a plan of evidence-based treatments that can help you through the process.
Every person’s treatment plan is different. Varied approaches may be needed to get the best results. The approaches can be personalized based on the type of opioid your body has become dependent on. The frequency and amount of opioids you were taking are also considered.
Here are evidence-based approaches to recovering from opioid withdrawal:
Medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD)
The first course of action for managing opioid withdrawal is medication. It’s also known as medication for opioid use disorder, or MOUD. Some of these are medications that are approved by the FDA to help people withdraw from opioids. They reduce cravings and symptoms, such as nausea, anxiety, and sweating. Others are used to reduce cravings. A licensed clinician will determine which medication will be the most effective option.
Types of MOUD include:
- Methadone — A long-acting opioid agonist, meaning that methadone completely activates the same brain receptors as opioids. It works to manage opioid withdrawal by helping to reduce cravings and symptoms. When it’s taken as prescribed, it doesn’t cause a “strong” high. It’s effective for treating opioid use disorder because it works gradually.
- Buprenorphine — A long-acting partial opioid agonist, which means that buprenorphine only partially activates the same brain receptors as opioids. It lowers the risk of misuse and overdose. It also manages opioid withdrawal by reducing cravings and symptoms. The partial activation also means that it has a “ceiling effect,” allowing the effects to level off. That means that, even at higher doses, it’s safer than full agonists.
- Naltrexone — Instead of activating the same brain receptors as opioids, Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist. It blocks the brain’s receptors. You don’t experience the euphoric and sedative effects that you have from opioids. The medication helps to reduce cravings and prevent using again.
Behavioral therapy
OUD can affect your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors just as much as your physical health. The same can be said for opioid withdrawal. Psychotherapy can play a role in every part of your recovery, including withdrawal. There are many different evidence-based approaches that a therapist may use to help. But cognitive behavioral therapy is usually one of the main approaches..
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, explores the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The goal is to change your thought patterns that lead to negative feelings and behaviors related to opioid use. It can help you work through the negative thoughts that come from withdrawal. For example, you may feel anxious, angry, or depressed. It helps you learn coping skills for your symptoms and overcome cravings.
Proper supportive care
There are two basics your body needs during withdrawal: Hydration and nutrition. Your licensed clinicians can provide the care needed to manage opioid withdrawal. That care includes your hydration and vitamin intake.
Dehydration is a common symptom of withdrawal, which can be made worse by nausea or diarrhea. Hydration can come from water as well as drinks that include electrolytes. Your body also needs to receive the proper vitamins to fight off the symptoms.
Groups can provide opioid withdrawal management
Opioid withdrawal is a process that can be managed with the right strategies and care. At Groups, we can help you manage your symptoms. We start you on a Suboxone prescription, a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. You’ll also attend weekly group support meetings. They can include therapy approaches to reduce mental and emotional challenges that can come from recovery.
Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today. They can provide more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups don’t offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.
