Professional Opioid Detox for a Stronger Recovery

Medically supervised opioid detox that helps manage withdrawal, reduce relapse risk, and prepare you for ongoing recovery.

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Medically supervised opioid detox that helps manage withdrawal, reduce relapse risk, and prepare you for ongoing recovery.

Opioid Detox and Withdrawal Support

Opioid detoxification is the period of time when the body adjusts after opioid usage is stopped or reduced after dependence has developed. Opioids include either prescription opioids like oxycodone or hydrocodone, or illicit opioids like heroin or fentanyl.

While opioid withdrawal is generally less likely to be life-threatening in the way alcohol withdrawal can be, it can still cause extreme discomfort and possibly increase the potential for relapse if someone is not provided with adequate support.[1] An evaluation by a professional will provide insight into whether the person would benefit from medically supported detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, inpatient treatment, or some other form of treatment.

What Happens During Opioid Detox?

When undergoing detox, the body starts removing the substance from its system, and the nervous system readjusts so that it can function without the presence of the drug. Opioids attach to receptors in both the brain and body and control aspects of pain relief, mood, respiration, and reward. As physical dependence develops, stopping consumption can trigger a withdrawal syndrome that impacts sleep, digestion, temperature regulation, mood, and cravings.[3]

The main goal of managing withdrawal from opioids is to reduce discomfort, assess and address symptoms, minimize the possibility of relapse, and allow the client to stabilize before transitioning to further treatment.

Detox is not the same as addiction treatment, but to stabilize a client and help manage withdrawal symptoms. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are FDA-approved for opioid use disorder, while broader recovery support may also include counseling, behavioral therapies, and other services.[4]

SOBA New Jersey offers medical oversight during the detoxification process for people experiencing withdrawal from opioids to help these clients transition into their recovery journey and develop a treatment plan for the next stages of recovery.

Who May Need Medically Supervised Opioid Detox?

A clinical evaluation can determine whether a person requires medical detoxification. Clinicians may consider the type of opioid used, the amount and frequency of use, prior withdrawal history, current health conditions, and whether other substances are involved.

Medically supervised opioid detox may be especially important for people with:

Daily use of opioids for extended periods
Severe opioid withdrawal symptoms when stopping use
Previous history of relapse during withdrawal
Significant cravings
Co-occurring mental illness issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma
If other substances like benzodiazepines or alcohol are involved
Pregnancy
Chronic pain
Dehydration risk or other health conditions
Lack of a stable living environment or support system

The severity of withdrawal symptoms cannot always be determined solely based on the type of opioid used and how frequently it was used. People using fentanyl or similar potent opioids may experience significantly greater challenges during detox than others using lower-potency opioids. People using combinations of substances may require more vigilant monitoring.

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Absolutely the best place to build a solid foundation for my recovery.

Amazing & friendly community. Can’t say enough about the staff, EVERY tech, clinician & nursing are energetic, helpful, generous & welcoming. GROUPS are very educational. Delicious food made by talented chefs. If you’re struggling there is no better place to recover.

Tracy Ferrara

I went to SOBA’s residential and sober living program and it really helped me on my journey with recovery.

The facility was great and so were the people. Mike C in particular was so great, he was kind, compassionate and welcoming and he also kept it real with me which was exactly what I needed. Couldn’t recommend SOBA enough.

Kayleigh Wharton

This treatment facility is like no other, its extremely clean, very well organized, and the program they run attends to the clients needs.

At SOBA, its personal, and you are looked at as individuals rather than just a number. All the staff are amazing at what they do and take the extra time to make you feel at home. The techs that work here are top tier, and were the reason why I felt so at ease and hopeful for my future. Thank you!

John Marone

SOBA saved my life and brought the best out of me

The entire staff is amazing and they were all truly there for me at all times. They put you first and I am beyond grateful for the help and support I received. Thank you all for helping me rediscover myself. I couldn’t have done this without SOBA. Big Shoutout to Mike C for going out of his way to make the unthinkable happen for us all and putting us first.

Michael Lamboy

The staff and food were standouts!

Special thanks to everyone there especially Mike, Scott, Sid, James, Deal, Passion, Roshida, Jess, Augie, Andre, Nelson, Amy to name a few. Hopefully will never have to go back but if I do I would choose SOBA!

Tom Pohmer

SOBA NJ truly changed my life.

The techs and clinicians made me feel welcome from day one and helped me find hope again. Everyone there genuinely cares and goes above and beyond to support your recovery. I’m so grateful for everything they’ve done for me — I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. Big shout out to Mike C, Scott, Hov, Desi, Phil, Sam, and the rest of the team !

David Vazquez

When I first started going to SOBA to help with my drug addiction.

I knew right away that this place would change my life. SOBA has helped me in so many ways, and I am so thankful for the group of people I’ve met who are so kind and sweet to me and I love that they show that they care for one another. I highly recommend going to SOBA it will CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Ariel Meza

I’m forever grateful to you all.

“Entering recovery was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. It was also one of the smartest, and one I wish that I had made 20 years ago. Last week I reached my 10-month clean date. I’d like to express my gratitude to the staff members who helped me along the way.”

Amanda S.

I will forever be grateful to SOBA.

The staff is truly amazing. They made the difference there and are the best people I have met they truly care about the people in the facility. Everyone does such an amazing job to help you to get to the other side. I will never forget that thank you!!!

Erica Kane

They SAVED MY LIFE. They can save yours.

“I came to them totally broken. The staff there helped me get my mental health straightened out, all while getting me off any and all drugs for the 1st time in 24 years. I’m able to say that I now have 152 days clean and sober.”

Jade B.

Words cannot even describe what SOBA has done for me.

“My life has made a 360 degree turn around for the best life I’ve ever experienced. I credit all the staff there. I am forever grateful to all of the SOBA staff and patients.”

Gary P.

SOBA rehab is a dedicated facility that helps you with addiction.

It’s program gave me the tools to help me in my recovery. The staff was amazing,and supportive. I was able to continue my treatment past detox on their campus next door. Housing was comfortable and once again the staff helped me transition in my program. They continue to help me in my process in recovery and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Alexis Habiger

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Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

The effects of opioid withdrawal can vary widely depending on the specific areas affected in the body and brain. Opioid withdrawal symptoms can resemble flu symptoms; however, intense cravings and emotional disturbances associated with the experience can create challenges for many people attempting to manage withdrawal without support.[5]

Examples of opioid withdrawal symptoms frequently experienced include:

Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea and abdominal cramping
Reduced appetite
Muscle aches and joint pains
Tremors, chills, or sweating
Goosebumps
Frequent yawning
Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings
Sleep disturbances like insomnia, restlessness, fatigue, or poor sleep
Agitation
Depression
Elevated heart rate
Runny nose, sneezing, or watery eyes
Intense cravings for opioids, especially during acute withdrawal

Dehydration caused by frequent episodes of vomiting or diarrhea is another symptom to watch for, and among several reasons why close monitoring may be beneficial during opioid detox.

Opioid Withdrawal Timeline

The opioid withdrawal timeline depends on the type of opioid used. Short-acting opioids like heroin will usually produce withdrawal symptoms much quicker than longer-acting ones like methadone, which could take longer to start showing symptoms and would likely show them for a longer time frame.

There are also additional factors that can affect how soon withdrawal starts and lasts, such as prior health issues, length of time using the drug, dose amount and frequency of doses taken, fentanyl exposure, and if any additional substances were used. [6]

In general, though, the timeline presents as follows:

How-Long-Does-Suboxone-Stay-in-Your-System

Step 1

First 6 to 12 Hours

Short-acting opioids generally have withdrawal symptoms beginning 6 to 12 hours after their last use. Some common early symptoms of withdrawal are anxiety, restlessness, excessive sweating, irritability or a short temper, and feeling achy. Other possible early withdrawal symptoms can include yawning, runny nose, watery eyes, and cravings.

Step 2

12 to 24 Hours

Symptoms of withdrawal often become very apparent. The person may experience muscle aches, insomnia, stomach cramping, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, fever or chills, cold sweats, and goosebumps. Cravings for the drug may intensify over this period.

Adderall may increase the risk of low birth weight

Step 3

Days 2 to 3

Withdrawal symptoms from many short-acting opioids tend to peak in the first few days. During this time, people may experience some of the worst symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, trembling or tremors, anxiety, irritable behavior, and severe body pain. If treated properly under a doctor’s care, these symptoms can be greatly diminished, which can prevent the possibility of dehydration or other complications.

Step 4

Days 4 to 7

Although the acute symptoms may begin to subside, many still report feelings of exhaustion due to lack of sleep and may still experience mood swings and cravings. Many users who are going through this phase are at a higher risk for relapse because of extreme fatigue, both physically and mentally.

Step 5

Considerations for Longer-Acting Opioids

The process of withdrawing from longer-acting opioids like methadone tends to happen more slowly and typically continues past the initial week. Due to the slow onset of withdrawal symptoms from longer-acting opioids, treatment providers can help determine whether tapering off slowly, buprenorphine, methadone, clonidine, lofexidine, or other symptom management options may be beneficial.

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Step 6

After Acute Withdrawal

Even though the most intense withdrawal symptoms have subsided, many people will continue to experience cravings along with sleep disturbances, anxiety or depression, and irritability or mood swings. This is why detox should be followed by ongoing opioid use disorder treatment and relapse prevention support.

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What Affects the Severity and Length of Opioid Withdrawal?

Because everyone has different experiences with opioid withdrawal, there are numerous factors that can determine how severe withdrawal will be and how long it will last.

These include:

Type of opioid used (heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, codeine, methadone)
Whether the opioid was short-acting or long-acting
Duration of use, amount, frequency
History of withdrawals or relapses
Additional substance use like alcohol or benzodiazepines
Current physical and mental health
Hydration, nutrition, sleep, and pain levels
Whether the withdrawal was supervised medically

Someone dependent on opioids may believe that they cannot stop using due to their physical dependency on the drug, but it does not mean that recovery is out of reach. In reality, it simply means that the person requires help from medical and psychological services to create a personalized plan for their recovery.

Common side effects of stimulant withdrawal include anxiety and depression

Why Can Opioid Withdrawal Be Dangerous?

Withdrawal from opioids can be dangerous due to the potential for dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea. The mental health aspects of withdrawal can also be detrimental, as people struggling with opioid withdrawal symptoms can experience extreme anxiety, insomnia, and cravings, making it difficult to remain abstinent.

One additional danger of opioid withdrawal is having a lowered tolerance to opioids during detox. If a person relapses with their previous dose, even after just a short period of not using an opioid, their body may no longer tolerate the same amount, which dramatically increases their overdose risk. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that medications for opioid use disorder, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, can help people reduce or stop opioid use and lower overdose risk.[7]

Naloxone is also an important overdose reversal medication, but it is not a replacement for opioid addiction treatment. People leaving detox should have a follow-up plan that addresses relapse prevention, cravings, medication options, therapy, and ongoing support.

Is It Safe to Detox From Opioids at Home?

When a person decides to undergo a home-based opioid detox, they are likely to experience escalating withdrawal symptoms. As well as potentially experiencing extreme cravings, the person will also be at greater risk of developing dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea, which are both common symptoms.

Using another person’s medication (such as buprenorphine, Suboxone, methadone, clonidine, diazepam, or naltrexone) to manage symptoms associated with withdrawal from opioids can also be unsafe. Naltrexone, in particular, can induce withdrawal if there are even trace amounts of opioids present in a person’s system.[8]

When a family member or friend shows serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pains, extreme dehydration, disorientation, unconsciousness, seizures, overdose symptoms, or suicide threats, immediate action must be taken. In this case, contact local emergency services by calling 911 immediately or seek medical attention at the nearest emergency room.

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Opioid Detox at SOBA New Jersey

Detox is only the first step in achieving stabilization from opioid use. The most successful results come from following detox with ongoing care.

The staff at SOBA New Jersey offer comprehensive support throughout the opioid withdrawal process and help clients transition into an individually developed treatment program based on their specific needs. These types of ongoing treatment options allow clients to develop strategies to deal with cravings and triggers related to both substances and other areas of concern, including mental health issues, pain management, interpersonal relationship problems, and day-to-day habits that promote long-term recovery.

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Begin Opioid Detox and Treatment

Contact SOBA New Jersey Today

Opioid withdrawal can feel overwhelming, but it’s manageable with the right support and the right clinical team in your corner.

To learn more about our available treatment options, reach out today. Our team of healthcare professionals will provide support and create a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opioid Detox & Withdrawal

How long does opioid detox take?

Opioid detox length depends on the type of opioid used, how long it was used, and the person’s health. Withdrawal from short-acting opioids may begin within hours and peak in the first few days, while withdrawal from longer-acting opioids may start later and last longer.

What are common opioid withdrawal symptoms?

Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, joint pain, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, sweating, chills, goosebumps, yawning, sneezing, abdominal cramps, tremor, increased heart rate, and cravings.

Is opioid withdrawal life-threatening?

Opioid withdrawal is usually not life-threatening for otherwise healthy adults, but it can still become dangerous. Dehydration, relapse, overdose risk after reduced tolerance, pregnancy, polysubstance use, and serious mental health symptoms can all require medical care.

What medications help with opioid withdrawal?

Depending on the person’s needs, medical professionals may use medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, clonidine, or lofexidine to help manage withdrawal symptoms. Naltrexone may be used later for opioid use disorder treatment after opioids are cleared from the body.

Is Suboxone used for opioid detox?

Suboxone contains buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine can help reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings when used appropriately under medical supervision. It should not be started without clinical guidance because timing matters.

What happens after opioid detox?

After detox, clients should continue with addiction treatment. This may include medication-assisted treatment, residential care, PHP, IOP, outpatient therapy, relapse prevention, mental health support, and aftercare planning.

Sources

[1] [2] [5] [6] MedlinePlus. (2024). Opiate and opioid withdrawal. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000949.htm

[3] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2006). Detoxification and substance abuse treatment: Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, No. 45. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64116/

[4] [7] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). TIP 63: Medications for opioid use disorder. https://library.samhsa.gov/product/tip-63-medications-opioid-use-disorder/pep21-02-01-002

[8] American Society of Addiction Medicine. (2020). The ASAM national practice guideline for the treatment of opioid use disorder: 2020 focused update. https://www.asam.org/quality-care/clinical-guidelines/national-practice-guideline