Going through detox is a crucial step in every addiction recovery program. In fact, many rehab centers won’t accept you if you haven’t gone through drug detox first. Additionally, some drugs are harder to detox from than others, including opioids. To ease your apprehensions about undergoing an opioid detox program, we’ve compiled some useful information on what to expect.

Pills illustrate the importance of an opioid detox programWhat Is Detox?

People need to understand what the term “detox” means. Overall, it refers to the process of removing toxins from the body. For example, some people detox on a regular basis to cleanse their bodies of toxins certain foods leave behind. In terms of drug detox, it involves removing the harmful chemicals drugs leave in the body.

If you’re struggling with addiction and attempt to stop using, you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms. These side effects may be extreme and, therefore, require the expert guidance of a detox center.

What Are Opioids?

Opioid drugs come from the opium poppy plant. Doctors frequently prescribe them to treat pain. They block pain signals from reaching the brain and increase endorphin production. Eventually, people develop addictions to the euphoric feelings these drugs produce.

Opioid Detox Program Program Timeline

Like any drug, there’s a general timeline for an opioid detox program. However, keep in mind that everyone detoxes at different rates. People can use this timeline to understand what to expect during the withdrawal process.

Stage One

The first stage of and opioid detox program occurs within 12 to 36 hours after the last dose of opioids. Doctors refer to this period as acute withdrawal. Generally, it lasts for around three to five days. The most intense symptoms occur for up to 72 hours, including:

• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Body aches

In most cases, these symptoms aren’t life-threatening. However, they do make people feel uncomfortable. Sometimes people start using again just to get rid of these uncomfortable side effects.

Stage Two

Opioid addiction depletes the brain’s supply of naturally occurring endorphins. Overall, these endorphins regulate your sense of well-being. During the second stage of an opioid detox program, the brain starts to restore normal levels. However, this process can take anywhere from one to two weeks.

While the brain attempts to balance endorphins, people usually experience changes in mood. In most cases, you’ll experience extreme depression and anxiety. Physically, you might notice goosebumps, chills, and leg cramps.

Stage Three

The final stage of opioid withdrawal is the easiest for people to handle, but it lasts the longest. The symptoms during this period are much milder than the previous ones. However, they can last for years.

Attending rehab after detox is a great way to learn how to manage these symptoms. Rehab centers teach people life skills to help them avoid future relapse. It’s still important that people undergo an opioid detox program before going to rehab though.

Overcome Opioid Addiction with Steps to Recovery

At Steps to Recovery, we help our clients overcome all addictions, including opioid abuse. Our goal is to provide you with the necessary tools to avoid relapse. In addition, we focus heavily on family support during the rehabilitative process.

Steps to Recovery offers several effective, comprehensive programs. We create custom treatment plans to handle each client’s’ unique needs. The various programs we offer include:

• Dual diagnosis treatment center
• Partial hospitalization program
• Intensive outpatient programs
• Sober living homes

Don’t waste another day fighting your addiction alone. Come see how Steps to Recovery in Levittown, Pennsylvania can help you break free from the devastating disease. Contact Steps to Recovery at 866-488-8684 for more information.