Understanding heroin detox and opioid withdrawal 

Detox is the process of clearing heroin and related opioids from your body while managing the withdrawal symptoms that occur when use stops. Because heroin is a short-acting opioid, withdrawal can begin just hours after your last dose. 

At Painted Grove Recovery, we understand this process isn’t only physical but emotional. That’s why our detox program focuses on safety, comfort, and preparation for the next stage of treatment. 

What is heroin detox? 

Heroin detox helps your body safely adjust without the drug while reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The goal is not only to stop heroin use but to stabilize your health so you can transition into ongoing care. 

Our detox program provides: 

• 24/7 medical oversight and support 
• Medications, when appropriate, to reduce discomfort and cravings 
• Emotional encouragement from staff who understand the challenges of withdrawal 

Why medical supervision matters during heroin detox 

Trying to detox from heroin at home can be unsafe. Symptoms like dehydration, severe insomnia, or emotional distress may quickly spiral, increasing the risk of relapse. 

At Painted Grove Recovery, medical supervision means you don’t have to go through this alone. Our team offers: 

• Continuous monitoring of your symptoms 
• MAT options such as Suboxone or Subutex to stabilize cravings 
• Hydration, nutrition, and rest in a supportive environment 
• Compassionate care that respects your dignity every step of the way 

Who benefits from medical detox? 

Medical detox is especially important for people who: 

• Use heroin daily or in large amounts 
• Have experienced relapse during withdrawal before 
• Face mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression 
• Have used heroin alongside fentanyl, alcohol, or benzodiazepines 
• Lack stable housing or supportive environments 

Even if you’re unsure, our admissions team can help determine whether inpatient detox suits you. 

Withdrawal symptoms vary, but most people experience patterns that follow a general timeline.

Early withdrawal (6–24 hours) 

• Anxiety and restlessness 
• Sweating and chills 
• Runny nose, watery eyes 
• Stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea

Peak withdrawal (24–72 hours) 

• Muscle and bone pain 
• Severe cravings 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Mood swings or irritability 
• Elevated heart rate or blood pressure 

Subacute phase (days 3–7) 

• Gradual improvement in physical symptoms 
• Ongoing fatigue and low energy 
• Emotional ups and downs 

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) 

Even after the first week, some people experience lingering effects like low energy, mood changes, or trouble concentrating. At Painted Grove Recovery, we prepare you for this stage by introducing coping tools and therapy that help you manage cravings and stay focused on recovery. 

At Painted Grove Recovery, we use medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as part of a whole-person approach to recovery. MAT combines carefully prescribed, FDA-approved medications with therapy and counseling to make detox and long-term healing more manageable. For many people, MAT helps ease withdrawal, reduce cravings, and provide the stability needed to focus on rebuilding life. 

Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) 

Suboxone is one of the most common tools in opioid recovery. It works by reducing cravings and withdrawal without producing the same effects as heroin. Our team carefully monitors each induction to keep you safe, and in cases where fentanyl is involved, low-dose or “microdosing” protocols may be used for a smoother transition. 

Subutex (buprenorphine) 

Some clients may begin treatment with Subutex, which provides the benefits of buprenorphine alone. This option is determined based on your history, health, and recovery goals. 

Brixadi 

For those who benefit from long-acting medication support, Brixadi—an injectable form of buprenorphine—provides steady relief from cravings without the need for daily dosing. 

Naltrexone (Vivitrol) 

Once detox is complete, non-opioid options like Vivitrol can be used to prevent relapse. Given as a monthly injection, Vivitrol blocks the effects of opioids, helping you focus on therapy and long-term recovery without the worry of relapse. 

Supportive comfort medications 

In addition to MAT, our team may provide non-addictive medications to ease symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, high blood pressure, or insomnia. These comfort measures make detox less overwhelming and allow you to begin recovery with greater stability and peace of mind. 

Inpatient medical detox 

At Painted Grove Recovery, detox occurs in a residential setting, where care is available 24/7. This structured environment removes outside triggers and provides constant medical oversight. Inpatient detox is especially helpful for people with significant heroin addiction, those using multiple substances, or anyone who needs a safe place to stabilize. 

Outpatient detox 

While some treatment centers may offer outpatient detox, Painted Grove Recovery does not. Outpatient detox typically involves regular clinic visits for monitoring and medication, and it may be an option for individuals with mild withdrawal symptoms and strong support systems at home. For safety and consistency, we believe residential detox provides the most effective foundation for recovery. 

Much of today’s heroin is mixed with fentanyl, a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin itself. This makes detox more complicated and increases risks for those using. 

Why fentanyl makes detox harder 

Because fentanyl is so potent, it often leads to higher tolerance levels and longer, more difficult withdrawal periods. Even very small amounts can raise the chance of overdose, which is why medical oversight during detox is so important. 

Safe induction strategies 

At Painted Grove Recovery, our team uses careful approaches—including low-dose or “micro-induction” methods when needed—to help clients begin Suboxone safely while fentanyl clears from the body. This reduces the chance of precipitated withdrawal and supports a smoother transition into treatment. 

Harm reduction and safety 

We encourage clients and families to use lifesaving tools like naloxone (Narcan) and fentanyl test strips whenever possible. Along with detox and therapy, our staff provides education on safer practices, giving both clients and loved ones the knowledge and resources needed to stay protected during recovery.