Is It Safe to Detox from Heroin Use at Home?

Heroin abuse and dependency affects more tha 9 million people. There is no disputing that the consequences of heroin use can be devastating. Trying to quit can be difficult, but it is not impossible. Although you may wonder is it safe to detox from heroin use at home; it is important to know that most healthcare professionals advise against it. How Heroin Affects the Body Heroin affects the central nervous system (CNS) by blocking the opioid receptors and stimulating the neurotransmitter dopamine – which give the euphoria from use. The temporary sensation of pleasure cannot compare to the adverse side effects and risk for diseases such as Hepatitis, HIV and AIDS. Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms Heroin withdrawal can start as soon as the last time the drug was used. Depending on severity of use, symptoms can range from moderate to intense and may take a week or longer to subside. The side effects of withdrawal may include both physical and psychological symptoms such as: • Cravings • Nausea/vomiting • Constipation/diarrhea • Body aches/pain • Insomnia • Anxiety/irritability • Mood swings/depression • Paranoia/hallucinations Trying to kick heroin abuse or addiction at home on your own can be dangerous, even deadly without the proper medical assistance. Most physicians recommend seeking help from a professional medical detox facility when you are ready to stop using What is a Heroin Medical Detox Treatment? The fact is that it is anybody’s guess what is in the heroin that people use. The ingredients can range from drain cleaner, rat poison, lighter fluid, household cleaners, over-the-counter antihistamines and other opiates such as Fentanyl. Chronic and excessive heroin use will result in a build-up of chemical toxins in the body. The purpose of a medical detox treatment is to clean the system by removing the chemicals. The process takes about a week to 7 days... sometimes a little longer depending on the severity of use. Something to consider when you start searching for the right heroin detox treatment for you is how effective the treatment will be in controlling the withdrawal symptoms. There are several different methods used in detox treatment including oral medications (which are not the most effective and slow acting) and intravenous therapy which is fast-acting and immediate. Whichever detox method you choose, make sure that it is from a facility that is accredited and that treatment is given under the direction of a licensed physician and qualified staff. The Importance of After Care in Recovery There cannot be enough said about the importance of after care in the recovery process. Without a good support network, it is too easy to slip back into the old patterns and ways. Committing to a rehab program, behavioral therapy or community support group can help you stay focused on your recovery and decrease the chance for relapse.