While opioids range dramatically from synthetically made fentanyl to prescription morphine, they all affect the body in a similar fashion with varying degrees of severity. Another thing that links them is their risk of dependence and how long they stay in your system. Opioids all process at a similar rate with similar highs and withdrawals.
At Starbridge Recovery, we’re ready to help you get opioids out of your system. Our detox and addiction treatment programs are designed to support clients in innovative ways. We believe you’re worth it and are ready to support you in making a difference in your life.
Contact Starbridge Recovery today to see how we can help you get off opioids.
What are Opioids?
Opioids are an all-encompassing name for opioids and opiates that are naturally and synthetically created painkillers. Common opioids are heroin and fentanyl, which are illegal, but they can also be prescription painkillers like morphine, codeine, oxycontin, and methadone. This class of drugs are addictive and can cause physical dependence. Individuals using opioids should be monitored by a doctor. If an individual is using opioids illegally, dependence and addiction can occur much quicker.
Individuals can misuse opioids by altering how the drug is taken, taking too much of the drug, or taking the drug with other contraindicated substances. This is most common in illegal use, but can also occur as some of the initial misuse steps of prescription medications.
How Do Opioids Affect the Body?
Opioids and opiates depress the central nervous system. These drugs block the opioid receptors and prevent individuals from feeling pain. It can also create a euphoric high that is addictive.
Opioids create a positive feeling during use. It can relieve pain and reinforce a positive emotional feeling for users. Opioid highs cause a reduction in stress by reducing “tension anxiety, and aggression.” Physically, users may experience drowsiness, loss of consciousness, nausea, constipation, and slowed breathing.
How Long Do Opioids Stay in Your System?
When it comes to testing for opioids, it is important to know how long the drug stays in your system. Opioids and opiates have a relatively quick half-life meaning that approximately half the drug has been processed through the system within an hour. However, the remaining drug can be detectable in the system for some time.
- Saliva tests are accurate when testing for opioids for 12-36 hours.
- Urine tests are accurate when testing for opioids for up to 5 days.
- Hair follicle tests are accurate when testing for opioids for up to 90 days.
What are the Symptoms of Opioid Withdrawal?
Opioid withdrawal can range from mild to severe depending on the circumstances of the addiction. Individuals with more severe addiction may experience worse symptoms for longer than those who have a more mild addiction.
Opioid and opiate withdrawal typically lasts for 7-10 days, with the most severe symptoms peaking between days 3-4. Long-term symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years following withdrawal. Opioids impact the body’s ability to repair itself. Cravings for opioids and being conscious of medications and other necessary prescriptions will be a necessity for successful sobriety.
Physical opioid withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nasal discharge
- Goosebumps
- Extreme muscle aches and pains
- Diarrhea, nausea and vomiting
- Pupil dilation
- Light sensitivity
- Rapid breathing
- Muscles twitching
- Increased heart rate
- Sweating
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased temperature
More severe opioid withdrawal can lead to hospitalization. This is why all withdrawal should be completed under the care of a medical professional.
Opioid withdrawal can also initiate or worsen mental health symptoms. Things like depression and anxiety can be worsened while going through withdrawal. Insomnia and cravings are onset symptoms of withdrawal of opioids and opiates.
How to Find Opioid Detox Programs in Studio City, CA
Finding an opioid detox program in Studio City, CA, is the best way to help get the opioids out of your system. In a treatment facility like Starbridge Recovery’s, clients can detox under medical care and transition immediately into inpatient residential care in a luxury facility.
At Starbridge Recovery, we have redefined the addiction treatment process by offering individualized treatment plans, alternative therapies, and the most effective traditional and evidence-based therapeutic options.
Speak with an admissions counselor to see how our opioid detox program can get you on the path to recovery.
