Opiate Detox

Suboxone is a medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). As a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine activates the same receptors as other opioids—but to a lesser degree—reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings while lowering overdose risk. Naloxone discourages misuse. Our team follows evidence-based protocols for timing the first dose and carefully adjusts dosing to your symptoms. 

Benefits of Suboxone during detox: 

• Eases acute withdrawal and cravings 
• Supports stabilization so you can participate in therapy 
• Can transition into longer-term maintenance if clinically appropriate 

Methadone is a full opioid agonist often used for individuals with severe or long-term opioid use. It can effectively reduce cravings and withdrawal when provided under medical supervision. 

Considerations with methadone: 

• Particularly helpful for people with high tolerance or complex withdrawal histories 
• Requires careful dosing and monitoring to avoid over-sedation 
• Can be part of a short-term detox plan or a longer-term maintenance strategy, depending on clinical need 

Fentanyl and heroin are among the most commonly misused opioids and can cause intense withdrawal. Our protocols combine medical supervision, MAT, and therapy to keep you safe and supported. 

What this can look like: 

• Early assessment for precipitated withdrawal risk when initiating buprenorphine in the setting of fentanyl 
• Symptom-targeted medications for nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, anxiety, and muscle pain 
• Frequent clinical check-ins to adjust the plan in real time 
• Focused counseling to manage distress, cravings, and triggers 

Short-acting opioids often produce withdrawal symptoms within 12 hours of the last dose, peaking between one and three days. Long-acting opioids may take up to 30 hours for symptoms to appear, with a peak around the fourth day. 

Early withdrawal (6–30 hours) 

Runny nose, sweating, goosebumps, and muscle aches—symptoms similar to the flu—often show up early, along with anxiety and cravings. Gentle movement, hydration, and reassurance help you get through this stage. 

Peak withdrawal (1–4 days) 

Symptoms intensify: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and strong muscle pain are common. Fatigue and insomnia may increase. This is when medical care, MAT, and frequent check-ins are most important. 

The first week 

Physical symptoms typically lessen by the end of the first week. Emotional symptoms like cravings, anxiety, and depressed mood may persist as your body recalibrates. You’ll begin focusing on the transition to residential or outpatient treatment, building daily routines, and practicing coping skills. 

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) 

Weeks or months after quitting, some people experience PAWS—periods of mood swings, sleep issues, low energy, or cravings. PAWS is manageable with structure, therapy, community support, and sometimes medication. We’ll help you plan for it so you know what to expect. 

Tapering protocols for safety 

For some people, gradual tapering is the safest way to detox. Our tapering strategies aim to minimize discomfort while preserving your sense of control and dignity. 

• Gradual dose reduction: Small step-downs allow your body to adjust. 
• Collaborative planning: You help shape the plan through shared decision-making that reflects your goals and values. 
• Behavioral health support: Therapy addresses trauma, anxiety, and other concerns that can amplify symptoms. 
• Symptom management: Non-addictive medications may be used for sleep, anxiety, stomach upset, and aches. 
• Continuous monitoring: Regular check-ins help us fine-tune the plan and keep you safe. 

Managing post-acute withdrawal syndrome 

PAWS can feel discouraging—and it’s normal. We prepare you with strategies that sustain progress after detox: 

• Self-care basics: Sleep, nutrition, hydration, light movement, and time outdoors support your nervous system. 
• Routine and structure: Consistent wake/sleep times, meals, therapy, and meetings reduce emotional swings. 
• Therapy and coaching: Individual and group settings help you practice coping skills, process triggers, and celebrate wins. 
• Connection: Staying close to peers, mentors, and family builds accountability and hope. 

Effective aftercare is personalized and practical. Together, we’ll build a plan that includes: 

• Consistent support to navigate cravings and stressors 
• Healthy routines—sleep, meals, movement, therapy, meetings 
• Community and peer networks that keep you connected 
• Academic or employment support if school or work re-entry is part of your goals 
• Clear safety plans for high-risk situations and how to ask for help 

Many people with opiate addiction also experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Treating mental health and substance use together reduces relapse risk and improves quality of life. Our team can coordinate psychiatric care, therapy, and medications so you have what you need to stay steady. 

Recovery requires daily practice. Your relapse prevention plan may include: 

• Continued MAT for the first several months as clinically indicated 
• Trigger mapping—identifying people, places, and emotions that raise risk 
• Coping skills such as urge-surfing, grounding exercises, and reaching out 
• Daily structure with therapy, recovery meetings, meals, and self-care 
• Accountability through sponsors, mentors, or peer groups 

We’ll make sure you leave with clear next steps and contacts you can call when you need support.