Heroin addiction has become a significant public health concern in the U.S. Over a million Americans have a substance use disorder related to opioids, causing potentially severe and life-threatening complications. Though the heroin addiction recovery rate varies according to several factors, treatment is possible and can lead to a more fulfilling life.
If you’re looking for a heroin rehab center near you, contact Promises Recovery Ranch. Through evidence-based therapy and compassionate care from experienced professionals, we help individuals achieve long-term sobriety. Call 1.844.876.7680 today to start recovering from heroin.
What’s the Heroin Addiction Recovery Rate?
The rate of heroin recovery is difficult to pin down exactly. In general, addiction recovery depends upon the type of drug used and the duration of treatment. Whether the client completes a recovery program for heroin addiction is another factor in success rates.
Studies have produced mixed results regarding the heroin addiction recovery rate, but some experts feel it may hover around 70 percent or higher. Regardless, people who enter treatment show at least a decline in heroin use, which may significantly improve recovery outcomes.
What to Know About Recovering from Heroin
Generally, doctors improve the heroin addiction recovery rate by using replacement medications that wean clients off the opioid over time, known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). By and large, it’s proven effective in the treatment of both opioid use disorders.
During MAT, clients present themselves at a treatment facility for detoxification. They receive replacement medications such as buprenorphine or buprenorphine mixed with naloxone. In the long run, these drugs are less harmful and addictive than heroin, yet they trick the body into thinking it’s just received an opioid. This medicine alleviates withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to severe.
Without the use of replacement medications, the symptoms of heroin withdrawal may include:
- Restlessness and irritability
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Anxiety, shaking, or rapid heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
Medication-assisted treatment ultimately blocks most or all of these uncomfortable symptoms, and withdrawal becomes much less unpleasant. As a result, more clients can complete the detox process and move forward into recovery.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Heroin Addiction?
It can take years to recover from heroin. Ultimately, these drugs make fundamental chemical changes in the brain, increasing recovery challenges. However, the right treatment plan and the help of behavioral therapy and counseling can lead to lasting sobriety.
Many clients choose a methadone maintenance program to wean themselves off heroin. With this treatment, a client takes methadone, a safer and less addictive opioid than heroin, regularly to prevent the onset of withdrawal. Afterward, individuals gently tapering off methadone until they can stop using the drug entirely without side effects. Methadone maintenance programs have multiple benefits, including:
- Helping clients recover from opioid and alcohol use disorders
- Preventing the contraction of HIV and other infectious diseases spread by injection
- Reducing the risk of relapse
- Discouraging harmful behavior of clients trying to score heroin
Methadone, alongside counseling and therapy, has been used as a treatment option for opioid addiction for decades. Consequently, it improves the heroin addiction recovery rate and helps to prevent relapse.
Enter the Heroin Rehab Center at The Ranch
If you or a family member battle an addiction to heroin, it’s essential to realize that recovery is possible. While it may not be easy and take longer than you initially planned, you can heal from heroin use disorder.
At Recovery Ranch, the heroin addiction recovery rate depends only upon your determination to succeed. Here, you’ll find a safe, peaceful haven to work improving your health and life. In addition, you’ll have acres of nature to explore as you recover among the glorious foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
You’ll also have access to compassionate and highly knowledgeable physicians, counselors, and staff to help move you toward your goals. Call us today at 1.844.876.7680 or complete our online form to start your journey to a brighter, drug-free future.