Morphine is a cheap and readily available opioid drug, making it one of the most abused opioids. Heroin is simply a synthesized version of morphine. Morphine is available in the form of a liquid, injectable solution, and both regular and extended release capsules and tablets. The injected solution provides a more rapid high, which peaks in about 15 minutes.
Morphine addiction happens rather quickly; in just a week or two of regular use, dependence on the drug can develop. This means that the neurotransmitters in the brain have become altered in response to the regular morphine dosing. Once dependence to morphine has occurred, the individual will experience drug cravings as well as unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when it is not present as the brain attempts to stabilize. This is why the long term morphine withdrawal process should be supervised. Before starting the detox process, individuals typically spend time with an intake clinician who gathers information about their addiction to morphine.
Realistic Expectations During Morphine Withdrawal & Detox
It isn’t a good decision to try quitting morphine cold turkey once you’re addicted to it. Suddenly removing the drug will quickly bring about intense long term morphine use withdrawal symptoms. This will likely cause the detox process to be interrupted as the individual returns to the morphine.
During a residential detox process, the detox specialists will put the person on a tapering schedule to slowly wean them off the drug, which eases the withdrawal symptoms immensely. Also, the detox doctor can prescribe a replacement opioid such as methadone or buprenorphine to help reduce the symptoms, including the drug cravings.
A morphine detox will begin 6 to 12 hours after the last dosage and typically last about one week, with symptoms peaking on days 2 and 3 before subsiding.
Long term morphine use withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Sweating
- Glassy eyes
- Yawning
- Runny nose
- Chills
- Goosebumps
- Elevated blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Inability to feel pleasure
- Restlessness
- Stomach cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea/ loose bowels
- Tremors
- Joint and muscle pain
- Drug cravings
- Depression
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
