What is heroin detox?

Heroin detox is the process of clearing heroin and related opioids from the body while safely managing withdrawal symptoms. Because heroin is a short-acting opioid, withdrawal can begin within hours of the last use. The goal of detox is not only to stop drug use but also to stabilize the body, ease discomfort, and prepare for ongoing treatment.

Detoxing from heroin at home can be overwhelming and risky. Symptoms such as dehydration, severe insomnia, and suicidal thoughts can escalate quickly. Medical supervision provides:

• 24/7 monitoring of vital signs and withdrawal symptoms
• Medications to reduce discomfort and cravings
• Supportive care, including hydration and nutrition
• Emotional encouragement from a trained team

Supervision helps reduce relapse risk and gives clients a safer, more stable start to recovery.

Not everyone needs inpatient detox, but many benefit from it. Medical detox, or medically assisted withdrawal management, is recommended for people who:

• Use heroin daily or in large amounts
• Have tried to quit before and relapsed during withdrawal
• Struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions like depression or PTSD
• Use heroin alongside fentanyl, alcohol, or benzodiazepines
• Lack stable housing or social support

On the first day, symptoms may include:

• Restlessness and anxiety
• Strong cravings
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Stomach cramps, nausea, or diarrhea
• Sweating and chills

Symptoms intensify over the next few days:

• Muscle and bone pain
• Difficulty sleeping
• Goosebumps and shivering
• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Emotional distress and agitation

After the first few days, symptoms start to improve. Fatigue, insomnia, and stomach upset may linger, but hydration, nutrition, and rest support recovery.

Even after detox, individuals may experience lingering symptoms such as:

• Low energy and fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings or depression
• Intermittent cravings

At Cedar Grove Recovery, we prepare clients for PAWS by providing therapy and relapse prevention planning.

Suboxone helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Induction is carefully managed to prevent precipitated withdrawal. Microdosing protocols can also be used, especially if fentanyl is present.

Methadone has been used for decades to treat heroin addiction. It is a long-acting opioid that reduces cravings and withdrawal without creating the same high as heroin. Some clients may continue methadone long-term; others may taper off gradually.

Naltrexone is a non-opioid medication that blocks opioid receptors, preventing the effects of heroin. It can only be started after detox is complete. Vivitrol, the monthly injection, is one option for ongoing relapse prevention.

Non-opioid medications like clonidine or lofexidine can ease symptoms such as anxiety, sweating, or high blood pressure. Anti-nausea medications, sleep aids, and non-addictive anxiety treatments are also used to make detox more manageable.

At our center in Louisville, MAT options include:

• Buprenorphine (Subutex)
• Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone)
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol)

These medications are offered under close medical supervision, with dosage and duration tailored to each client’s unique needs and recovery goals.

Inpatient detox provides around-the-clock support in a structured, trigger-free environment. It’s recommended for individuals with severe dependence, polysubstance use, or co-occurring mental health conditions.

Outpatient detox can work for individuals with mild withdrawal, strong family support, and reliable transportation. Clients attend regular check-ins for medication and monitoring.

After detox at Cedar Grove Recovery, most clients transition into longer-term treatment. Options include:

• Residential rehab (21–35 days) for immersive care
• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) for structured daytime treatment
• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) for flexible, ongoing therapy

Choosing between residential rehab and PHP/IOP ultimately depends on the individual's specific needs and situation. It’s important to discuss options with a healthcare provider to determine the best level of care.

Before beginning treatment, consider these important questions:

1. Do you have a safe, substance-free living environment for detox?
2. Is reliable support available if you experience challenges at home?
3. Have you previously experienced severe withdrawal symptoms or relapse?
4. Is transportation to and from appointments consistently accessible?
5. Can you readily access help and support whenever it is needed?

It's important to note that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Each person's journey to recovery will look different and may require different levels of care at different times. This should not discourage anyone from seeking help—options are always available, and support networks are ready to help.

Fentanyl-contaminated heroin leads to higher tolerance and more severe, prolonged withdrawal symptoms. The heightened potency of fentanyl also significantly increases overdose risk, as even small doses can be fatal.

To avoid precipitated withdrawal, low-dose buprenorphine induction can be used. This allows individuals to transition to Suboxone safely while fentanyl clears from the system.

Clients and families are encouraged to carry naloxone (Narcan) and use fentanyl test strips. Cedar Grove Recovery provides harm reduction education as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.

Many people with heroin addiction also face mental health conditions. At Cedar Grove Recovery, every client is screened for co-occurring disorders and offered integrated treatment, including individual therapy and psychiatric care.

For clients with chronic pain, we explore non-opioid options such as physical therapy, mindfulness, and non-addictive medications.

Our licensed providers offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and coordination with primary care doctors for holistic support.

Therapy begins during detox and continues afterward. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing are used to help clients reframe thought patterns and build motivation.

Support groups play a vital role in fostering connection and accountability during recovery. They create a safe space for individuals to share experiences, gain encouragement, and build a sense of community. Families are encouraged to join groups like Al-Anon to understand their loved ones' struggles better and provide more effective support throughout their recovery journey.

Recovery is about more than just abstinence—it’s about creating a fulfilling, healthy life. At Cedar Grove Recovery, we help clients build “recovery capital” by focusing on meaningful lifestyle changes that support long-term healing. This includes improving sleep, nutrition, exercise, and fostering strong, supportive relationships.

Relapse prevention planning starts early, typically during the detox phase, to set a strong foundation for recovery. Clients may continue with MAT, along with therapy and case management, to address the root causes of addiction and build healthy coping skills. These ongoing support systems are crucial in helping clients stay committed to their recovery journey and prevent setbacks.

Therapists collaborate with clients to pinpoint individual triggers, working to understand their origins and impact. Together, they develop and practice a personalized toolkit of healthy coping skills, empowering clients to navigate challenges effectively.

Sober living environments and recovery coaches provide crucial structure, accountability, and encouragement during the vulnerable post-detox period. These resources help individuals solidify their recovery efforts and build a sustainable, substance-free future.

Residential rehab provides daily structure, group support, and evidence-based therapy for 21–35 days. Clients also engage in holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, breathwork, wilderness, art, and music therapy.

Outpatient programs offer flexibility, allowing individuals to maintain their work or school commitments while attending therapy sessions several times a week. These programs often include evening programming and morning IOPs, providing varying levels of intensity to suit individual needs.

The most effective approach often combines MAT with ongoing therapy, such as group therapy and individual counseling.

Our admissions team offers same-day assessments and placement when possible, making it easier to get help quickly.

Clients are guided on what to bring to detox and given a clear outline of their first day, so there are no surprises.

Confidentiality is protected under HIPAA, and licensed professionals review and guide every client’s care plan.

At Cedar Grove Recovery in Louisville, Kentucky, you’ll find a welcoming space to begin heroin detox. Our medical team provides 24/7 care, evidence-based treatment, and compassionate support for every client. Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or a loved one, recovery can begin with one call.

Reach out today at 502.317.8031 or through our online contact form. Our caring team is here to provide a confidential consultation, verify your insurance quickly, and help you take that crucial first step toward lasting recovery.