Heroin Detox in Charlotte, NC

Finding a heroin detox in Charlotte, NC is the first step to overcoming heroin addiction. Heroin is an illicit opioid that is derived from the poppy plant and is partially responsible for the opioid epidemic the country has been facing for the last decade. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 14,996 people died of a heroin overdose in 2018.[1] People who abuse heroin smoke, snort, or shoot the drug to achieve an intense, calming, and euphoric high.

Despite the widespread use of this illegal drug, very few people actually find the help that they need. Overcoming heroin addiction isn’t easy, but it is possible with the help of a certified addiction treatment provider. However, before people begin treatment, it’s important to undergo heroin detox. Our heroin detox center in Charlotte, NC is comprised of medical professionals, compassionate clinicians, and immense emotional support.

Heroin Dependence and Withdrawal Symptoms

Heroin is a potent, illicit opioid that impairs the brain’s reward system. Over time, this increases an individual’s tolerance to the drug. People who are addicted to heroin end up needing higher and more potent doses to achieve the same high they did when they first started using the drug. As their drug abuse continues, most people quickly become physically dependent on heroin, resulting in withdrawal symptoms when they stop using.

 

What to Expect During Heroin Detox

Heroin detox provides patients with a safe and supportive environment to get sober and effectively manage their withdrawal symptoms. In rare cases, complications from heroin withdrawal require medical supervision. However, even if a patient’s life is not in jeopardy, their symptoms may be so uncomfortable that they are unable to get clean on their own. As a result, supervised medical detox is always encouraged for people who suffer from heroin addiction.

“Detox is the natural process the body takes while drugs and alcohol are being removed from a person’s body. When withdrawing from substances, it’s important to seek medical assistance because some symptoms can be dangerous or life-threatening.”

When you first check into a drug detox, you will go through intake with an addiction specialist. They will gain an understanding of your drug use and medical history to create a plan that works for you. Your withdrawal symptoms will be evaluated to determine whether or not you require FDA-approved medications that help treat opioid use disorder.

Throughout your time in detox, you will have access to 24/7 emotional support, medical assistance, and counseling. In the event of a complication, a physician will be ready to intervene. The ultimate goal of heroin detox in Charlotte, NC is to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety.

Depending on the severity of your withdrawal symptoms and other factors (such as mental and physical health), detox may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. After your symptoms subside and you are deemed medically stable by a doctor, you should move on to a comprehensive opioid rehab program.

Medically-Assisted Detox for Heroin Addiction

Medication-assisted treatment for heroin addiction involves the use of FDA-approved medications and counseling to treat opioid use disorder, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and prevent relapse or overdose.[3] While these medications aren’t for everyone, they are extremely helpful in reducing heroin withdrawal symptoms.

Medications that are used during heroin detox include:

• Methadone
• Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex)

Both of these drugs suppress cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms to make the process more tolerable. In some cases, people remain on these medications throughout their treatment program before tapering off. In other circumstances, medication-assisted treatment is only used during detoxification.

Get Help from a Heroin Detox in Charlotte, NC Today

Deciding to get sober is one of the most important decisions you will make. If you are addicted to heroin you might feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle. Don’t be mistaken – recovery isn’t always easy. However, seeking help from a heroin detox in Charlotte, NC will make the process much easier.

Charlotte Detox Center is a family-owned and operated drug and alcohol detox in North Carolina. Our compassionate and expert staff works closely with each patient to ensure their safety and comfort during medical detox. After you’re done with detox, we will develop a customized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and be with you every step of the way – from heroin detox and residential treatment to outpatient counseling and aftercare.

If you or a loved one is ready to give up heroin for good and for all, contact us today.

References:

1. https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates
2. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/opioid-withdrawal-symptoms
3. https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/treatment