Heroin is one of the most addictive substances on the planet due to its pharmacological effects on the brain and body. That is why getting the proper help for a drug detox from heroin is essential for a successful recovery. Heroin is classified as an opiate. The National Institute of Drug Abuse defines and explains opiates as,
“a class of drugs naturally found in the opium poppy plant. Some prescription opioids are made directly from the plant, and others are made by lab scientists using the same chemical structure. Opioids are often used as medicines because they contain chemicals that relax the body and can relieve pain.”
When heroin is ingested, it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier and converts into morphine. Morphine binds to opioid receptors in the brain, producing a powerful and immediate euphoric effect. This rapid onset and intense high contribute to its potency. Both heroin and morphine are potent analgesics that can provide significant pain relief. The drug binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, reducing pain perception and inducing relaxation and well-being.
Repeated heroin use can lead to an increased drug tolerance, requiring higher and higher doses to achieve the desired effects. Additionally, the drug can lead to physical and psychological dependence, making it challenging for individuals to quit without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Transformations Care provides the proper medical treatment to help individuals suffering from an opioid addiction.
Detoxing off powerful opiates, such as heroin, requires medical care. It’s far too dangerous to attempt drug detox outside of the supervision of trained and experienced professionals. Transformations Care knows heroin triggers a massive dopamine release in the brain, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This flood of dopamine creates an intense rush of joy and reinforces the drug’s addictive properties, making it difficult for individuals to resist continued use. Undergoing a safe and comfortable process of opiate withdrawal under medical supervision is essential. If one has been consuming opiates regularly over an extended period, abruptly ceasing use can cause profoundly dangerous physical and mental side-effects.
In some cases, quitting abruptly and without oversight carries risks of severe health issues or even life-threatening complications. Many attempt drug detox at home without professional assistance, despite being aware of the dangers. The motivations vary – some people feel shame about returning to treatment again, others wish to keep their substance use private, and some users hope they can discreetly take time off at home without significant issues. However, a medically-monitored drug detox is usually necessary for health and long-term recovery.
The best case scenario for attempting an at-home drug detox is arguably obtaining medication like suboxone from others. Still, even this carries risks as one would not have medical guidance on proper usage. It could lead to precipitated withdrawal by taking the medication too early or relying on “friends” to provide occasional painkillers during the retreat at irregular intervals, which is unlikely to result in a sustainable recovery.
While the desire to detox privately is understandable, history shows home detoxes from opioids seldom succeed in avoiding flu-like systems, and the associated discomforts can become severe without medical oversight.
As former users, we have direct experience with how strenuous opioid withdrawal can be. That is why Transformations Care offers a clinically monitored residential detox program designed to optimize comfort and care. Our opioid detox protocol is carefully planned and monitored by addiction experts highly experienced in safely managing the process. Discomfort is addressed proactively to minimize suffering. Peripheral issues like pain, cramps, anxiety, or sleep problems also receive treatment. Our peaceful setting allows thorough medical detox to lay the foundation for ongoing recovery work.
Transformations Care is equipped to manage billing and verification of coverage for most major private health insurance plans that include out-of-network benefits. We also have in-network agreements with providers such as HealthNet MHN. For those with state-administered insurance like Medi-Cal/Medicaid or Medicare, we unfortunately are not currently in-network. However, we offer self-pay rates that are reasonable and equitable for individuals without private coverage. Contact us and let’s explore what arrangements might be possible to suit your treatment needs or those of a loved one. Our goal is to make our clinically sound services accessible regardless of insurance situation.
For those struggling with opioid dependence or any other addiction, undergoing a medically supervised detox is overwhelmingly preferable to taking unassisted risks with personal safety and long-term health. It’s time to embark on change, but lasting recovery requires support. You may struggle to envision a fulfilling life without substance reliance, but Transformations Care has evidence that one choice can meaningfully impact your future trajectory – away from active addiction. Through successfully guiding countless individuals to long-term sobriety, we understand recovery is achievable. Everyone deserves the opportunity to reclaim health and wellness. Contact us at (424) 339-0965 to take that first step toward a life of renewal. Our caring staff are ready to walk with you on your journey.