Opioid Addiction: Symptoms, Risks, Withdrawal & Treatment Options
Opioids are a class of powerful drugs that include naturally derived opiates (like morphine and codeine), semi-synthetic opioids (such as oxycodone and hydrocodone), and fully synthetic opioids like fentanyl, one of the most dangerous substances involved in today’s overdose crisis. All opioids work by binding to receptors in the brain and body to reduce pain—but they also create intense euphoria, which can quickly lead to dependence and addiction.
Opioid addiction is a chronic condition that requires evidence-based care, often provided through professional opioid rehab programs, opioid detox centers, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Short-Term & Long-Term Effects of Opioid Use
Short-Term Effects of Opioids
Opioids produce several short-term effects, including:
- Euphoria
- Pain relief
- Drowsiness
- Slowed breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Skin flushing or itching
Because opioids depress the central nervous system, even a slightly higher dose than intended can result in respiratory depression, the primary cause of opioid overdose deaths.
Long-Term Effects of Opioid Misuse
Chronic opioid use can lead to:
- Memory and concentration issues
- Increased sensitivity to pain (opioid-induced hyperalgesia)
- Depression and anxiety
- Liver damage
- Heart and lung problems
- Severe physical dependence
- Life-threatening overdose
For those using fentanyl—knowingly or unknowingly—the risks are significantly higher due to its extreme potency.
Risks of Opioid Use & Overdose
The most dangerous consequence of opioid misuse is overdose, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Signs of an Opioid Overdose
- Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Blue or gray skin, lips, or fingernails
- Unresponsiveness
- Snoring or gurgling sounds
- Pinpoint pupils
If you suspect an overdose: call 911 immediately.
Opioid Withdrawal & Detox
Stopping opioids abruptly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Medical detox is highly recommended to ensure safety and comfort.
How Long Does Opioid Withdrawal Last?
Detox lasts 4–20 days, depending on:
- The opioid used
- How long you’ve used it
- Whether it’s short-acting (heroin) or long-acting (fentanyl, methadone)
Common Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
- Anxiety & irritability
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Hot/cold flashes
- Sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Insomnia
- Runny nose & teary eyes
Medication-Assisted Detox
Medically supervised detox may include:
- Buprenorphine/Suboxone – reduces cravings & withdrawal
- Methadone – stabilizes the system without causing a high
- Clonidine – helps with anxiety, agitation, & physical symptoms
These medications make detox safer and significantly reduce relapse risk.
Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs
Trying to stop opioids “cold turkey” greatly increases the risk of relapse and overdose. Professional addiction treatment is the safest and most effective path.
Levels of Care for Opioid Addiction
You may be referred to one of the following programs:
- Inpatient Rehab / Residential Treatment 24/7 care in a structured environment. Ideal for moderate to severe opioid addiction or co-occurring mental health disorders.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) Intensive daytime treatment with medical and clinical support.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) 3–5 sessions weekly, focusing on therapy, relapse prevention, and accountability.
- Outpatient Rehab 1–2 sessions weekly for ongoing support.
For a full comparison, see your Opioid Rehab & Treatment Directory
Evidence-Based Therapies for Opioid Use Disorder
Treatment typically includes a mix of behavioral therapies and medication.
Common Therapies Used
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Contingency Management (CM)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Relapse Prevention Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Medications Used in Opioid Addiction Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment is considered the gold standard for opioid use disorder:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone) – reduces cravings
- Methadone – prevents withdrawal and stabilizes recovery
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol) – blocks the effects of opioids
MAT significantly reduces relapse and overdose deaths.
Questions to Ask Your Provider
When discussing treatment options, consider asking:
- Which levels of care are appropriate for my symptoms?
- Should I begin treatment with medical detox?
- Am I a candidate for Suboxone, Subutex, or methadone?
- What does relapse prevention look like?
- Can treatment address co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety?
- Is treatment covered by my insurance?
