Heroin Withdrawal

Most drug rehab, drug treatment, and detox centers are equipped to handle a person withdrawing from heroin.  A heroin withdrawal can be painful for the user, and can last between 7 to 14 days, depending on how much was used, length of time, and frequency of use.

Typical withdrawal symptoms will occur within 6 to 24 hours after a person has stopped using.  The degree of the symptoms will fluctuate from user to user, depending how much was used and how often.  The user’s tolerance for the drug will also determine the severity of their withdrawal symptoms.

The following symptoms will take place:

• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Feelings of heaviness
• Cramps in the limbs
• Insomnia
• Vomiting
• Muscle and bone aches
• Diarrhea
• Muscle spasms
• Restless leg syndrome

Many users will complain of a painful condition called itchy blood.  This problem will cause the user to scratch them self compulsively, which will cause the skin to rupture and create scabs.  These scabs can later get infected, and cause further health risks for the person.

The abrupt termination of heroin can cause dangerous health problems; however, when monitored properly, the individual does not normally experience life threatening situations.

Properly staffed drug rehabilitation programs that have effective detox methods can handle a person withdrawing off of heroin.