Most people need some time to adjust after opioid detoxification. Although the acute withdrawal phase may have passed, some people may experience tiredness, changes in sleep, low mood, anxiety, restlessness or heroin cravings. The intensity and duration of these symptoms vary from person to person.
Some people may also experience withdrawal-like or “false withdrawal” symptoms after the acute withdrawal period has ended. These can be triggered by stress, emotions, memories, people or places associated with previous drug use. They may feel similar to withdrawal even though the body is no longer physically dependent on the drug.
Cravings and withdrawal-like symptoms can sometimes be difficult to manage. If they occur, contact your medical team so that appropriate medical and relapse-prevention support can be provided.
It is also important to understand that opioid tolerance decreases after detoxification. If opioid use is resumed, the amount previously tolerated may now cause an overdose. Returning to previous opioid doses can therefore be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
Continued medical, psychological and relapse-prevention support after detoxification can help patients maintain abstinence and reduce these risks.