Quitting heroin "cold turkey," or abruptly stopping its use without any medical assistance or tapering off the drug, can lead to severe and intense withdrawal symptoms. Heroin is an opioid drug that produces physical dependence in users. When someone is physically dependent on heroin and suddenly stops taking it, their body undergoes a range of physiological and psychological reactions, which can be extremely challenging to endure. Here's what happens during heroin withdrawal and why it is so unbearable:
Opioid receptors: Heroin binds to opioid receptors in the brain and other parts of the body, which are responsible for pain relief and feelings of pleasure. When heroin is used chronically, the body adjusts by reducing its own natural production of endorphins (the body's natural opioids) and increasing the number of opioid receptors.
Withdrawal symptoms: When heroin is no longer present in the body, the sudden drop in opioid receptor stimulation leads to a variety of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can start as early as a few hours after the last dose and may include:
- Intense cravings for heroin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches and pains
- Agitation and restlessness
- Anxiety and depression
- Sweating and chills
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Dilated pupils and blurred vision
- Goosebumps ("cold turkey" expression comes from the goosebumps that resemble a plucked turkey's skin)
Psychological impact: Aside from the physical symptoms, heroin withdrawal can have a profound psychological impact. Users may experience extreme anxiety, depression, irritability, and an overwhelming desire to use the drug again to alleviate these distressing feelings.
Duration of withdrawal: Heroin withdrawal symptoms typically peak within 1-3 days after the last use and gradually subside over the course of a week or so. However, some symptoms, like depression and cravings, may persist for much longer.
Risk of relapse: Due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms and the overwhelming desire to end the discomfort, many individuals find it extremely difficult to quit heroin "cold turkey" successfully. The risk of relapse during withdrawal is high, as individuals may turn to heroin again to alleviate their suffering.
Because of the intense physical and psychological distress caused by heroin withdrawal, it is generally recommended that individuals seek professional help when attempting to quit heroin or other opioids. Medically supervised detoxification, counseling, and support services can significantly improve the chances of successful recovery and reduce the risk of potential complications during the withdrawal process.