It is a fact that drugs and yes even alcohol have withdrawal effects. The most commonly used and abused street drug from the opiate family is heroin. Lots of narcotic pain killers are opiates as well, and are widely abused. Opiates are dangerous, highly addictive, and if used for an extended period of time can leave the user experiencing withdrawal effects if a dose is missed.
Contrary to popular belief you cannot die from opiate withdrawal. The only drugs that you can die during withdrawal from are alcohol, and benzodiazepines. Opiate withdrawal does cause the person to experience flu like symptoms, cramps, and mental health problems. The flu like symptoms usually consist of but are not limited to a runny nose, cold sweats, chills, and diarrhea.
These physical symptoms are very uncomfortable, but will usually only last between 48 to 36 hours. The cravings for opiates should be fewer at this point as well. Mental health symptoms such as anxiety or depression can be ongoing and should be evaluated by a licensed doctor or psychiatrist.
There is good news though. Modern advancements in medicine have produced drugs to help minimize the withdrawal effects. Some common medicines used are suboxone, methadone, librium, catapres, and the recently approved Vivitrol.
Most hospitals have a detox unit available to help one get through the withdrawal process from opiates. Typically once admitted you will be monitored for a period of about 5 days. This great service is very effective but does not come cheap. You should expect to be billed roughly $5000.00 for your stay. Upon discharge they will usually suggest following up with an in-patient or out-patient drug and alcohol rehab facility.
