Although the effects of opioids may last only a few hours, the drug remains in your system for much longer, which could be problematic if you need to take a drug test for work or court. If you have committed to quitting opioids, you may be wondering what type of opioid withdrawal symptoms you can expect as the drug leaves your body, how long it will last, and what you can do to manage the discomfort. How long do opioids stay in your system?
Overcoming opioid dependence can be your reality when you put your trust in My 5 Palms. Our Florida opioid rehab is here to guide you back on your path to sobriety. Call us at 1.844.675.1022 or fill out our online form to learn more about our treatment options for opioid addiction.
How Long Opioids Stay in Your System
Opioids can be detected in a person’s system for different lengths of time depending on the type of test used:
- Blood test – up to 12 hours
- Saliva test – one to four days
- Urine test – two to four days
- Hair test – up to 90 days
Various factors can influence the duration that opioids remain in your system. These include the length of time a person has been using opioids, the frequency of their use, the dosage consumed, and the individual’s health status. Generally, opioids may remain in the system longer in someone with an extended opioid use history, who uses opioids frequently, uses high doses of the drug, or has a health condition that slows their metabolism or impacts their ability to process toxins.
Common Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Opioid withdrawal symptoms occur when you abruptly stop using opioids or reduce your dosage. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the same factors that impact how long the drug remains in your system. Some common opioid withdrawal symptoms you may encounter are:
- Flu-like symptoms – This can include headache, fatigue, runny nose, sweating, chills, and muscle aches.
- Gastrointestinal discomfort – This may involve stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
- Psychological symptoms – You may feel anxious, irritable, restless, or depressed and also have trouble sleeping.
Opioid withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as eight hours after your last dose but could take as long as 36 hours to appear. Symptoms are typically at their worst from days one through three, then slowly taper off, lasting approximately seven to 14 days.
How to Manage Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
Getting through opioid withdrawal is often one of the biggest roadblocks to recovery. But with the proper treatment, you can manage your symptoms better and increase your chances of maintaining sobriety. Here are some of the most effective ways to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT involves the use of particular medications that can help ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Medications often used for opioid withdrawal are buprenorphine, Suboxone, methadone, and naltrexone.
Behavioral Therapies
No opioid addiction treatment program is complete without therapy. Getting professional help through counseling allows you to address the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction, develop healthy coping strategies, and receive unwavering support from a professional.
Complementary Therapies
Complementary therapies help round out your treatment plan, increasing your chances of recovery. Some complementary therapies that may be incorporated into your program are yoga, meditation, acupuncture, equine, or nature therapy. These unique treatment approaches help promote relaxation and stress reduction.
Enroll in Opioid Rehab by Calling My 5 Palms in Florida
If you are ready to end your dependence on opioids, it is time to enroll in opioid rehab at My 5 Palms. Our comprehensive addiction treatment programs address all areas of your life to ensure a successful recovery. Fill out our online form or give us a call at 1.844.675.1022 to get started.
