How To Stop Relapse On Heroin
Relapse is a widespread problem in heroin rehab. The powerful hold that heroin and other opiates have on an addicted person is difficult to break. Heroin binds to receptors in the brain associated with pleasurable experiences. It covers these receptors completely and remains for a significant period. When it fades, the chemistry of the brain changes and powerful cravings erupt. The changes to brain and blood chemistry make heroin addiction particularly difficult to break.
Withdrawal and Illness
Within one day after the last dose, heroin addicts begin to feel severe effects of withdrawal. This illness takes many forms but usually involves a lot of pain, cramping, and gastric discomfort. Many people require medication during this phase. The intensity can be overwhelming.
Relapse on Heroin
Many addicts use medications that reduce the symptoms of heroin dependence. Treatment facilities use medications to ease the stress of heroin detox. Some such as Buprenorphine can mask the symptoms of withdrawal. The downside is that prolonged use of medications can create new dependencies. The phenomenon called bridging happens when a heroin addict uses a substitute to avoid withdrawal but then becomes attached to the substitute drug. For some addicts, this helps them merely cover periods without heroin and avoids facing the need to get clean.
Chemical-Assisted Therapy
A very high percentage of addicts relapse, and for some, they must adjust over a longer period. Some will need longer periods of drug-free therapy. Others will succeed with chemical-assisted therapy. Methadone maintenance is one such treatment method. Methadone replaces heroin, and the recovery can proceed as methadone maintains the addict, and the treatment plan gradually decreases the dosage. Relapse is not uncommon in heroin addiction and treatment. The addictions to heroin and opioids are difficult to treat.
Psychological Dependence
Heroin addicts have powerful mental cravings along with physical symptoms. The deep impression from heroin use creates a craving that may never fade in some addicts. They must learn ways of coping and controlling the urges.
After Relapse
The addict must begin the recovery process over again with a detox and treatment plan. Some drugs like Suboxone can replace heroin and provide a smooth transition. Ideally, the treatment plan would decrease the Suboxone dosage to zero. Other drugs offer benefits such as extended-release drugs that have reduced relapse in some studies.
Call Us for Heroin Addiction
We understand the powerful physical and mental forces involved in heroin addiction. The pain from withdrawal can be overwhelming for some addicts. Depending on the tolerance for the drug, medical supervision may be needed to detoxify some users. We can help find the best solution for heroin addiction and relapse. Call us today; we match the program and resources to the needs of the addict and the addiction.