Nothing is scarier than watching a loved one struggle with an addiction to a drug like heroin. To make matters worse, heroin abuse is on the rise. If a loved one struggles with this drug, you might wonder, “How long does heroin withdrawal last?” Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer.
What Is Heroin?
Let’s discuss heroin in greater detail so that you can understand this drug. Then, it will be easier for you to understand the benefits of a heroin addiction treatment center. In short, heroin is an opiate that comes from the poppy plant. The drug has no medical use, so people simply take it for recreational purposes.
However, it’s dangerous for a number of reasons. Firstly, heroin is extremely addictive because of the euphoric feeling that it creates. Secondly, sellers usually cut the drug with other substances. Because of that, people never know how much heroin they actually take, which only increases their chances for overdose.
How Long Does Heroin Withdrawal Last?
With more knowledge about heroin, let’s discuss how long that the withdrawal takes? Like with any drug addiction, the main thing to note is that the process is different for everyone. Some people naturally withdrawal from drugs quicker or slower than others.
However, most people start to feel the onset of withdrawal within the first 10 to 15 hours after quitting. From this point, the symptoms only get worse until they reach a peak. In most cases, this peak hits at around the 72-hour mark of being in withdrawal.
Once the symptoms peak, though, withdrawal doesn’t just end. It slowly becomes more tolerable, which can take days or even weeks. Sometimes, cravings for the drug never completely go away. For that reason, rehab is a very important part of the treatment process.
Withdrawal is just one step. Once people are stable, they must go to rehab so that they can learn to control their cravings and triggers. Only then can they truly manage addiction and maintain drug-free lives.
Genetics Matter
When learning how long does heroin withdrawal last, genetics play a role too. In fact, they’re usually a hidden factor when it comes to substance use disorder. Some genes simply make people more susceptible to addiction.
Those who are more likely to develop an addiction also take longer to detox. As a result, a family tree might actually play a role in how long it takes to detox.
Let Us Help You
Do you need more answers about how long does heroin withdrawal last? If so, consider Boise substance abuse programs. At Zelus Recovery, we work hard to ensure that you safely overcome drug addiction. A few of the programs that we offer include:
- Early intervention for adolescents
- Family therapy
- Group counseling
- Outpatient rehab
- Intensive outpatient treatment
Don’t let a lack of knowledge keep you or a loved one from getting heroin addiction help. Learn more about how long does heroin withdrawal last. Reach out to us today at 208.518.0797 to start your treatment.
