Withdrawal

 

If a dependent person suddenly stops taking opiates, or severely cuts down the amount they use, they will experience physical withdrawal symptoms because their body has to readjust to functioning without the drug. This usually occurs within a few hours after last use.

Withdrawal symptoms include a craving for the drug, restlessness, yawning, tears, diarrhoea, low blood pressure, stomach and leg cramps, vomiting, goose bumps, and a runny nose. These withdrawal symptoms get stronger and usually peak around 2 to 4 days after last use.

They also include increased irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, elevated heart rate, and emotional depression. Then they begin to get weaker and usually subside after 6 to 7 days. However, some symptoms, such as chronic depression, anxiety, insomnia, loss of appetite, periods of agitation and a continued craving for the drug, may last for periods of months and even years.