What Are Drug Withdrawals?

Withdrawals are part of a drug detox. They tend to be what clients consider the uncomfortable, even painful, part of drug addiction treatment. Of course, there are ways to mitigate the discomfort and even make this time an important milestone in your next step to integrating full recovery into your life.

If you regularly use certain drugs like heroin, cocaine, or even alcohol, your brain begins to adjust to the presence of the substances. You may slowly become physiologically dependent on these drugs to perform and feel “normal.”

People with significant levels of dependence often respond with withdrawal because of the sudden lack or declining blood concentration of a particular substance. The withdrawal process involves the body trying to reach a new homeostasis state as it eliminates any lingering chemical effects of the specific drug. Besides causing temporary interferences in brain chemistry, this may lead to significant physical and mental health repercussions.

Explanation of Common Physical Symptoms

These describe bodily symptoms that emerge from abruptly ceasing using drugs. Lethargy and fatigue are common reactions caused by numerous substances because of the harm drugs cause to the body. Other examples include tingles, clammy skin, shakes, and sweats. People often undergo muscle aches and spasms.

The withdrawals themselves will vary, based on the drug involved, but here are some general patterns a person can expect.

1. Neuroadaptation: Prolonged drug use leads to neuroadaptation, where the brain adjusts its functioning to compensate for the presence of the drug. This often involves changes in the levels of various neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain.
2. Disruption of neurotransmitter balance: When drug use is abruptly stopped or reduced, the disrupted balance of neurotransmitters can lead to withdrawal symptoms. The specific neurotransmitters affected depend on the drug used. For example, opioids affect the production of endorphins, while benzodiazepines affect the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety and relaxation.
3. Hyperactivity and rebound effects: Without the drug’s presence, the brain may exhibit hyperactivity in response to the sudden absence of the substance. This hyperactivity can cause various physical and psychological symptoms. Additionally, rebound effects can occur, which are the opposite effects of the drug. For example, stopping a sedative medication like a benzodiazepine can lead to rebound insomnia or anxiety.
4. Physical symptoms: Drug withdrawals often involve physical symptoms that can be quite uncomfortable. These symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, tremors, sweating, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and flu-like symptoms.
5. Psychological symptoms: Alongside physical symptoms, drug withdrawals can also cause a range of psychological symptoms. These may include anxiety, depression, irritability, restlessness, insomnia, mood swings, cravings for the drug, and difficulties with concentration and memory.
6. Duration and severity: The duration and severity of drug withdrawal symptoms vary depending on factors such as the drug used, the duration of use, the dose, and individual factors. Withdrawal symptoms can last for days, weeks, or even months, gradually improving over time.

Timeline and Stages of Withdrawal Symptoms

While the withdrawal timeline depends on the drug, withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, clinical depression, and cravings. The duration of the person’s addiction and their unique chemical makeup also affect the timeline for withdrawal. Other factors include the individual’s height, weight, metabolic rate, age, and any underlying physical or mental health issues.

The first symptoms often occur within 24 hours of drug use and tend to worsen for the first 48 hours. Generally, the symptoms will slowly improve as your body adapts, and the withdrawal process often lasts about 7 to 10 days.

Medication Assisted Treatment in Drug Detox

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an approach that combines medications with counseling and therapy to aid individuals struggling with drug dependence or addiction. MAT helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms and stabilize brain chemistry. By providing medical supervision during the withdrawal process, MAT minimizes health risks and ensures individuals receive appropriate care.

Moreover, by reducing the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings, MAT increases treatment engagement and decreases the likelihood of relapse. This comprehensive treatment approach supports long-term recovery by integrating medication with counseling and support services. It is crucial to seek MAT under the guidance of healthcare professionals who specialize in addiction treatment to receive tailored and effective care.

Understanding of Psychological Symptoms

These are the effects that drug withdrawals have on mood, mental health, and well-being. Much like frustration and agitation are common reactions to the absence of substances, nervousness, and anxiety are commonly seen. Hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that only exist in your mind) are also part of quitting certain drugs. Other psychological withdrawal symptoms may include paranoia and delirium.

The Impact of Polydrug Use and Mental Health Conditions

Polydrug use often intensifies the impacts of any individual drug. It adversely depletes the brain’s calming and feel-good chemicals. As such, it can spark mental issues like anxiety and depression. People with a polydrug problem and suffering from a mental health condition need treatment that treats both at once. They should consult a doctor or psychotherapist to discuss their options.

Role of Healthcare Professionals in Safe Drug Detoxification

Medically supervised detoxification involves removing addictive substances from the body with the support of competent medical experts. The procedure occurs at a treatment facility, where a skilled team provide around-the-clock care. These professionals can personalize treatments and curb the harsh impacts of withdrawal on the body.

Like diabetes, arthritis, or other chronic conditions, you can manage addiction effectively via medical intervention. Detox centers like Saddleback Recovery in Costa Mesa help treat addiction with high quality, professionally monitored drug detox. Healthcare professionals offer stabilization and support to help manage the side effects of drug detoxification in a safe environment and offer the best support for getting a client’s life on the road to recovery.