Opioids Archives

Percocet and hydrocodone pills pouring from bottles

Percocet vs. Hydrocodone: Key Differences, Similarities, and Risks

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on December 28, 2025. Posted in Drug Addiction, Opioids, Recovery, Stories, Substance Addiction, Support.

Percocet and hydrocodone are two widely prescribed opioid medications used to manage moderate to severe pain. While both are effective for short-term pain relief, they also carry a high risk of addiction, especially when misused. Understanding the differences between these drugs can help patients make informed decisions and recognize the signs of opioid dependence.

In this guide, we compare Percocet vs. hydrocodone—including their ingredients, effects, dosage, side effects, and potential for addiction.

What Is Percocet?

Percocet is a brand-name prescription painkiller that combines two drugs:

Oxycodone: A potent opioid that alters how the brain and nervous system respond to pain.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol): A non-opioid pain reliever that enhances oxycodone’s effects and helps reduce fever.

Percocet is often prescribed after surgery, injury, or for short-term pain management. It is available in various strengths and typically taken every 4–6 hours.

What Is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is another opioid medication, commonly found in brand-name drugs like Vicodin, Norco, and Lortab, which also include:

Hydrocodone: A semi-synthetic opioid similar to oxycodone in strength.
Acetaminophen: Included in many formulations to boost pain relief.

Hydrocodone is prescribed for similar reasons as Percocet, including post-surgical pain, injury recovery, or chronic pain conditions.

Percocet vs. Hydrocodone: What’s the Difference?

Feature	Percocet	Hydrocodone
Opioid Component	Oxycodone	Hydrocodone
Other Ingredient	Acetaminophen	Acetaminophen (in most versions)
Brand Examples	Percocet	Vicodin, Norco, Lortab
Strength	Slightly stronger, faster onset	Milder, longer-lasting for some users
Addiction Risk	High	High
DEA Schedule	Schedule II controlled substance	Schedule II controlled substance

Key takeaway: Both drugs are powerful opioids with similar risks. Percocet may have a slightly higher potency due to its oxycodone content, but both should be taken only as prescribed.

Common Side Effects of Percocet and Hydrocodone

Both medications share many side effects, including:

Drowsiness
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Dizziness
Headache
Slowed breathing

More serious risks include:

Respiratory depression
Physical dependence and addiction
Liver damage (from excessive acetaminophen)
Overdose

Never mix either drug with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system depressants.

Which Is More Addictive: Percocet or Hydrocodone?

Both Percocet and hydrocodone have a high potential for misuse, tolerance, and addiction. The risk increases with prolonged use, higher doses, or recreational use (e.g., crushing and snorting pills).

Signs of opioid addiction may include:

Taking more than prescribed
Doctor shopping or running out early
Mood swings or isolation
Withdrawal symptoms when not using
Obsessive thoughts about obtaining the drug

If you or someone you love is showing signs of opioid misuse, early intervention can be life-saving.

Treatment for Percocet and Hydrocodone Addiction

Tulip Hill Recovery offers personalized, compassionate care for individuals struggling with prescription opioid addiction. Our evidence-based programs address both physical dependence and underlying mental health conditions.

Our treatment options include:

Medical detox to manage withdrawal safely
Dual diagnosis care for co-occurring disorders
Individual and group therapy
Relapse prevention and coping skills

We work with you to develop a long-term recovery plan tailored to your needs.

Get Help for Opioid Addiction Today

Opioid medications like Percocet and hydrocodone can be effective pain relievers—but they can also lead to addiction, overdose, and long-term health consequences. If you’re struggling with dependence or misuse, Tulip Hill Recovery is here to help you reclaim your life.

? Call us at 629-201-2726 or fill out our confidential form to learn more about our opioid treatment programs in Murfreesboro, TN.

What We Treat

Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Addiction Treatment Therapies

Mental Health Treatment

How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to Opioids?

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on June 6, 2025. Posted in Drug Addiction, Opioids, Recovery, Stories, Support.

A person who could benefit from opioid addiction treatment in Murfreesboro.

How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to Opioids?

At first, opioids can feel like a lifeline—relieving pain after surgery, an injury, or chronic illness. But what begins as a legitimate treatment can quickly turn into something more dangerous. For many individuals, the line between medical use and dependency blurs faster than expected. The question most people ask, especially concerned loved ones, is this: how long does it take to get addicted to opioids?

The answer is both startling and complicated. In some cases, dependence can begin within just five days of use. That’s right—five days. Understanding how this happens, who’s at risk, and what steps to take next could mean the difference between early intervention and long-term addiction.

Understanding Opioid Addiction

Opioid use disorder (OUD) doesn’t just happen overnight, but it can progress rapidly. When someone uses opioids—whether prescribed oxycodone or illicit fentanyl—the brain starts to adapt. Over time, this rewiring can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. People might begin craving the drug not only to relieve pain but also to feel “normal.” This dangerous shift marks the beginning of addiction.

At Tulip Hill Recovery, we’ve seen how quickly dependency can take hold. That’s why early awareness and education are essential. Addiction isn’t a moral failing; it’s a medical condition that needs treatment and compassion.

How Quickly Can Addiction Develop?

Some believe it takes months or years to become addicted. However, recent data from the Truth Initiative suggests that opioid dependence can begin in as little as five consecutive days of use—especially if taken at higher doses or more frequently than prescribed.

For others, it may take a few weeks of steady use before cravings and withdrawal symptoms start. But the danger lies in how opioids hijack the brain’s reward system, reinforcing use even when the individual knows it’s harming their health, relationships, or finances.

If you’re worried about how quickly a loved one is becoming dependent on painkillers, don’t wait. Early signs of misuse—such as taking more than prescribed or experiencing mood swings—should never be ignored. Our addiction resources can help you learn what to watch for.

Risk Factors for Rapid Addiction

No one chooses addiction, but certain factors can increase the risk of becoming dependent on opioids quickly. These include:

Genetics and family history – A person with relatives who have struggled with substance use is more likely to follow the same path.
Mental health conditions – Depression, anxiety, PTSD, or unresolved trauma can drive someone to misuse opioids to numb emotional pain.
Past substance use – Individuals who have used alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs are more susceptible to opioid addiction.
High dosage or long-term prescriptions – Even when used as prescribed, strong or prolonged exposure increases dependency risk.
Environmental stressors – Financial pressure, isolation, or living in areas with high substance access can accelerate misuse.

Understanding these risks can help individuals and families stay vigilant. If these factors sound familiar, it might be time to talk to a professional. Our dual diagnosis treatment program addresses both mental health and addiction, recognizing how deeply they’re connected.

The Importance of Early Intervention

The longer opioid misuse continues, the harder it becomes to stop. That’s why recognizing the warning signs early is vital. You might notice someone skipping work or school, isolating from friends, or becoming increasingly secretive. Physical symptoms like drowsiness, nausea, or constant flu-like conditions are also red flags.

Early intervention can prevent a full-blown opioid use disorder. It might start with a conversation with a doctor, a call to a treatment center, or joining a support group like 1 rel=”nofollow noopener noreferrer”2Al-Anon. What matters most is acting before the addiction takes deeper root.

Treatment Options for Opioid Use Disorder

Fortunately, recovery is possible—and more accessible than ever. The most effective treatments for OUD include a combination of medication and therapy.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) uses FDA-approved drugs like buprenorphine or methadone to reduce cravings and manage withdrawal.
Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), help reframe thoughts and behaviors related to drug use.
Support groups and family therapy reinforce recovery and help rebuild strained relationships.

At Tulip Hill Recovery, our treatment plans are built around the whole person. Whether you’re seeking detox support, outpatient therapy, or family counseling, we’re here to walk with you through every stage of healing.

Recent Trends in Opioid Overdose Deaths

There’s a glimmer of hope in recent national data. According to the CDC, opioid-related overdose deaths declined nearly 27% in 2024—the first major drop in years. This positive trend reflects greater access to naloxone (a life-saving overdose reversal drug), improved treatment infrastructure, and widespread public awareness.

Still, the threat remains. Potent synthetic opioids like carfentanil continue to cause fatal overdoses, particularly in communities without access to treatment. The Washington Post reports that states leading the recovery movement invested heavily in education, harm reduction, and holistic care.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you or someone you love is caught in the grip of opioid use, you’re not alone—and it’s not too late. Recovery is possible with the right support, tools, and professional care. At Tulip Hill Recovery, we provide individualized treatment plans, compassionate therapists, and a community that believes in second chances.

? Call us today at (629) 201-2726 or explore our programs to begin your healing journey. One step can change everything.

Source References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, May 14). U.S. Overdose Deaths Decrease Almost 27% in 2024. 1blog/2s/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2025/20250514.htm

Truth Initiative. (n.d.). Opioid dependence can happen after just 5 days. 1blog/2search-resources/substance-use/opioid-dependence-can-happen-after-just-5-days

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). How opioid addiction occurs. 1blog/2seases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/in-depth/how-opioid-addiction-occurs/art-20360372

WebMD. (n.d.). Stages of Opioid Addiction. 1blog/2stages-of-opioid-addiction

Washington Post. (2025, May 14). Fentanyl overdose deaths fell in 2024, reversing years of increases. 1blog/2se-deaths-decline/

Manistee News Advocate. (2025, July 1). Michigan sees rise in carfentanil-related deaths. 1blog/2s/article/michigan-carfentanil-fatal-overdoses-reach-11-20400668.php

Combining Opioids and Alcohol: Dangers and Risks

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on May 3, 2024. Posted in Alcohol Addiction, Detox, Drug Addiction, Opioids, Recovery, Stories, Support.

Combining opioids and alcohol is a dangerous and risky practice that can have serious consequences. Opioids are powerful medications that slow breathing and heart rate, especially when taken in high doses or combined with alcohol.

Mixing these substances increases the risk of overdose, respiratory depression, and even death. It is important to understand the potential dangers of combining opioids and alcohol. Doing so can help people know when to seek help when they are struggling with substance abuse.

Opioid Abuse Statistics

According to the CDC, opioid-related overdose deaths have been steadily increasing since the early 2000s. From 1999-2021, almost 645,000 people died from overdosing on opioids. From 2020 to 2021, overdose death rates of synthetic opioids increased by more than 22%. Furthermore, of the 107,000 drug overdose deaths in 2021, over 75% were from opioids.

Commonly Abused Opioids

Some of the most commonly abused opioids include:

Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
Codeine
Morphine
Fentanyl
Heroin

Effects of Combining Opioids and Alcohol

Combining opioids and alcohol can have severe and potentially deadly effects on the body. Both substances are central nervous system depressants, meaning they slow down brain activity and can cause respiratory depression. When taken together, the effects of each substance are intensified, leading to a higher risk of overdose.

Both opioids and alcohol can suppress breathing, which can lead to dangerously low oxygen levels in the blood. Combining these substances can impair motor skills, making it dangerous to drive or even walk. Opioids and alcohol both have sedative effects that are heightened when used together, increasing drowsiness and the potential for accidents. Additionally, this combination significantly increases the risk of overdose, which can be fatal.

Risks of Mixing Opioids and Alcohol

The risks of mixing opioids and alcohol include:

Alcohol and opioid use disorders
Mood swings
Aggression and violence
Increased risk-taking behaviors
Risky sexual behaviors
Accidents
Respiratory failure
Death
Financial problems
Legal Issue
Depression
Anxiety
Increased self-harm and suicidal behaviors

Fatal and Non-Fatal Overdoses

When opioids and alcohol are mixed, the risk of overdose significantly increases. A fatal overdose occurs when breathing becomes severely depressed or stops altogether. This causes a lack of oxygen to the brain and vital organs.

In non-fatal overdoses, individuals may experience confusion, unconsciousness, extreme drowsiness, unresponsiveness, difficulty breathing, weak pulse, or even seizures. It is crucial for anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.

Signs of Opioid Abuse

Some signs of opioid abuse include:

Increased tolerance to the drug, requiring higher doses for the same effect
Self-medicating and taking opioids in larger amounts than prescribed
Withdrawal symptoms when not using opioids
Doctor shopping or seeking prescriptions from multiple healthcare providers
Changes in behavior, mood swings, and irritability
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Social withdrawal and isolation
Financial problems
Lack of personal hygiene
Mixing opioids with other substances to enhance their effects
Turning to illicit opioids

Effects of Alcohol Abuse

The effects of alcohol abuse can have serious consequences on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Alcohol can cause inflammation (hepatitis), fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and other conditions that affect the liver’s ability to function properly.

Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, decreased brain function, and an increased risk of dementia. Excessive drinking can also cause high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and irregular heartbeat.

Additionally, alcohol abuse is linked to depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and other mood disorders. Another effect of alcohol abuse is it damages relationships with family and friends. People can also struggle with maintaining commitments at work, school, or home.

There is even an increased risk of accidents and injuries while under the effects of alcohol. Some people will face legal problems and financial issues. Furthermore, alcohol lowers inhibitions, which results in increased risk-taking behaviors and poor decision-making.

How Long Do Opioids and Alcohol Stay in the System?

The length of time that opioids and alcohol stay in the system varies based on the dosage and frequency of use. Alcohol typically stays in a person’s system for 1 to 2 hours per drink. Opioids, on the other hand, can remain detectable for several days, even after their effects wear off.

Detox Timeframes

The detox timeframes for opioids and alcohol vary based on the frequency and duration of use and dosage taken.

Alcohol:

Acute withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6 to 12 hours after the last drink. This period lasts for a few days to several weeks. Generally, detox can take between 7 to 10 days. However, it can take longer for those with severe alcohol addiction.

Opioids:

The onset of opioid withdrawal symptoms varies depending on the type of opioid used. For short-acting opioids like heroin or oxycodone, symptoms may begin within 6 to 12 hours after the last dose. For longer-lasting opioids like methadone, it may take up to 30 hours. Detox from opioids generally lasts about 1 to 2 weeks. However, chronic opioid use requires an extended detox process lasting between 3 weeks and several months.

Treatment

Treatment for opioid and alcohol abuse involves a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapeutic methodologies. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can also be used when beneficial. A doctor will give the patient the needed medications while minotiring their symptoms.

A personalized treatment plan often includes the following:

Medically supervised detox
Residential or outpatient treatment program
Individual and group therapy
Holistic therapies
Aftercare planning for ongoing support

Break Free from Opioid and Alcohol Addiction in Murfreesboro, TN Today

Are you ready to discover a brighter future, free from opioids and alcohol? At Tulip Hill in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, our compassionate and caring team is here to help with personalized treatment programs. Our support staff is here to walk alongside you on your recovery journey.

man with opioid addiction relapses due to untreated withdrawal symptoms

Can You Die from Opioid Withdrawal?

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on May 19, 2023. Posted in Opioids, Recovery, Stories, Substance Addiction.

The opioid epidemic in the United States has been a growing problem over the past decade. It is estimated that more than 130 people die daily from opioid-related overdose, with many more being hospitalized or suffering other health complications due to opioids. In addition, those who suffer from opioid use disorder and attempt to stop “cold turkey” could die from opioid withdrawal.

What Is Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioid withdrawal is the syndrome caused by the abrupt discontinuation of opioid drugs after physical dependence has developed. Symptoms typically include restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and more severe symptoms such as abdominal cramps, muscle spasms, and diarrhea. It is crucial to seek professional help to treat opioid addiction and manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

Can Someone Die from Opioid Withdrawal?

Generally, opioid withdrawal is not life-threatening. However, there are certain risks associated with opioid withdrawal that could cause someone to die from opioid withdrawal. Additionally, individuals who have been using opioids for a long period or in high doses may be more at risk of severe withdrawal symptoms that could lead to dehydration or other complications that could be fatal if left untreated.

How Could Someone Die from Opioid Withdrawal?

There are various ways someone could die from opioid withdrawal. For example, someone could choke on their own vomit. Someone could also die from excessive dehydration, which causes organ failure. Furthermore, the most serious symptoms of opioid withdrawal that could lead to death if not treated include seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrest.

Seizures occur when the electrical activity in the brain becomes abnormal and can cause a person to stop breathing or go into cardiac arrest. Respiratory depression is when an individual’s breathing rate falls below the normal range, leading to hypoxia (lack of oxygen) or even death. Lastly, opioid withdrawal increases one’s risk for cardiac arrest due to increased heart rate and blood pressure levels.

Opioid Withdrawal Timeline

The timeline for opioid withdrawal can vary from person to person and depends on a few factors, including the type of drug used, length of time using it, and how much was taken. The opioid withdrawal process is typically divided into four phases: early onset, peak, late stage, and resolution.

During the early onset phase (6-12 hours after last use), people may experience anxiety, restlessness, agitation, insomnia, and sweating. The peak phase occurs within 1-3 days of abstinence, and symptoms become more intense, with nausea and vomiting common.

The late stage usually begins around 3-5 days after the last dose, and symptoms start to lessen but can still be quite uncomfortable. Lastly is the resolution phase, where most physical symptoms have subsided, but psychological effects, such as cravings, may remain for weeks or months afterward.

Dangers of Going Cold Turkey from Opioids

Going “cold turkey” from opioids is when someone abruptly stops taking the drug without tapering off gradually. Unfortunately, attempting to go “cold turkey” from opioids is not an effective method to quit using the drug because it can lead to more intense and dangerous withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures or respiratory depression, which could potentially be fatal if left untreated.

Additionally, the sudden discontinuation of opioids after physical dependence and addiction have developed increases one’s risk for relapse due to severe cravings that arise during opioid withdrawal. Therefore, it is important for individuals who are trying to quit using opioids to do so in a safe way with medical supervision and support.

Signs Someone Needs Help

Some common signs that someone may be abusing opioids include changes in behavior or mood, increased tolerance or dependence on the drug, impaired coordination and judgment, difficulty sleeping, constricted pupils, and taking higher doses due to increased tolerance. Individuals abusing opioids may also engage in risky behaviors like driving while under the influence of drugs, sharing needles, or having unprotected sex with multiple partners. It is essential to seek help when someone is aware of these warning signs and wants to stop.

Call us now

Take the next step to your recovery.

629-201-2776

Detox from Opioids

Detox is the first step in treating opioid addiction and involves gradually reducing or eliminating drug use under medical supervision. During detox, individuals receive medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and psychological support to help them cope with cravings and other emotions associated with the process. Detox helps reduce the risk of relapse by allowing people to slowly wean off opioids while having access to professional help.

How Medical Detox from Opioids Prevents Death

Medical detox from opioids can prevent death by providing a safe and supervised environment in which individuals can slowly wean off the drug. During this process, individuals are monitored closely to help manage withdrawal symptoms. In addition, medical detox reduces the risk of relapse that could lead to a potentially fatal overdose.

Conclusion

The opioid epidemic in the United States has devastated individuals, families, and communities. There are many signs that someone may need help with opioids. Detox is an integral part of treatment for opioid addiction by providing a safe environment and medical support to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Going “cold turkey” from opioids can be dangerous due to potentially fatal complications. Therefore, it is essential to seek professional help when abusing opioids or struggling with addiction.

Compassionate Opioid Addiction Treatment in Murfreesboro, TN

At Tulip Hill Recovery in Murfreesboro, TN. Our family-run treatment center provides compassionate, personalized opioid addiction treatment in a supportive and caring environment. Support with genuine passion begins the moment someone walks on our door as we want to help you be successful in recovery. Contact us today to start your treatment.

man struggling with the symptoms of an opioid addiction

Warning Signs Of Opioid Addiction

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on March 3, 2023. Posted in Drug Addiction, Opioids, Stories, Substance Addiction.

Knowing the warning signs of opioid addiction is important because it can help individuals identify if they or someone they know is developing an addiction. In addition, early recognition of addiction can help someone get the help they need to prevent more serious consequences, such as accidental overdose and death.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids are a class of drugs used to reduce pain and can be either prescription or illicit drugs. Common prescription opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine, and fentanyl. Common illegal opioids include heroin and illicit fentanyl.

Opioid Addiction Risk Factors

Opioid use disorder risks are related to a variety of factors, such as behavioral genetic, and environmental, such as:

Family History of Addiction
History of Mental Health Issues
Previous History of Substance Use
Being Exposed to Opioids at a Young Age
Easy Access to Opioids
Social Environment that Promotes or Normalizes Opioid Misuse
Peer Pressure
Chronic Pain Conditions

Common Symptoms and Signs of Opioid Addiction

Some of the common symptoms and signs of opioid addiction you need to be aware of include the following:

Taking opioids for a longer period or in higher doses than prescribed.
Doctor shopping to get additional prescriptions.
Taking opioids recreationally or using them in combination with other substances.
Snorting or injecting opioids.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using opioids.
Experiencing cravings for opioids.
Engaging in risky behavior while under the influence of opioids.
Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to opioid use.
Having financial or legal troubles related to opioid use.
Keeping a “secret stash” of opioids.
Hiding one’s opioid use from family and friends.
Becoming irritable, angry, or aggressive when questioned about one’s opioid use.
Inability to stop using opioids, even when one wants to stop.

Long-Term Health Effects of Opioid Use Disorder

Prolonged use of opioids can have long-term health effects as tolerance to the drug increases. As the body builds tolerance, a person must use a higher dosage of opioids to achieve the desired effects. Therefore, the risk of accidental overdose is increased.

Other long-term health effects can include increased risk of infections, anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, cognitive impairments, and damage to the lunger, heart, and liver.

Call us now

Take the next step to your recovery.

629-201-2776

How Many People Die from Opioid Overdoses?

Opioid overdoses have become increasingly common in the United States, with an average of 44 people dying daily from prescription opioid-related overdoses, according to the CDC. In addition, more than 106,000 people died from illicit and prescription opioids in 2021, as reported by NIDA.

What are the Signs of Opioid Overdose?

Loss of Consciousness
Slow, Shallow, or No Breathing
Bluish Color to the Skin, Lips, and Fingernails
Cold and Clammy Skin
Vomiting
Unresponsive to Verbal or Physical Stimulation
Disorientation
Unusual Snoring or Gurgling Sounds

If you suspect someone has overdosed on opioids, it is imperative to call 911 immediately. However, it may still be possible to save the person using naloxone to counteract the overdose.

Opioid Detox Withdrawal Symptoms

When the effects of opioids wear off, a person goes into opioid detox. Some of the more common withdrawal symptoms one can experience include the following:

Anxiety
Insomnia
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Muscle Aches and Pains
Abdominal Cramps
Sweating
Irritability
Intense Cravings for Opioids
Depression
Elevated Heart Rate
Uncontrolled Yawning
Runny Nose
Watery Eyes
Blurred Vision
Chills

Opioid Detox Timeline

The timeline for opioid detox can vary depending on the individual and the type and amount of opioids used. Generally, the withdrawal process can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks. During this time, seeking medical detox at a medical detox center is essential, as withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening.

Withdrawal symptoms can appear within 6 to 12 hours after the last dose. During the first 24 hours to 3 days, one can experience anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, runny nose, watery eyes, and uncontrolled yawning.

The existing symptoms will continue to intensify, and new signs will appear until they peak, sometimes during days 4 to 7. These new symptoms include abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, and insomnia.

After about a week in detox, a person may start feeling restless, depressed, anxious, or irritable. In addition, their cravings for opioids can still be intense. They may also notice they have problems concentrating, focusing, and sleeping.

Furthermore, people that used opioids longer-term or in high doses could experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. All of the physical withdrawal symptoms should subside within two to three weeks after stopping opioid use.

However, some people can continue to experience the psychological effects of withdrawal called PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome). PAWS can last for several weeks, months, or even longer. Therefore, it is crucial to continue treatment until these symptoms subside.

Benefits of Opioid Detox at a Rehab Center

Medical Support: Detoxing from opioids can be a dangerous process, and having the support of medical professionals to monitor the process can make it safer.
Medication-Assisted Treatment: Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms during detox.
Mental Health Support: Detoxing from opioids can be a difficult and emotional process, and having access to mental health professionals can make it easier.
Structure and Support: Rehab centers provide structure and support that make it easier to focus on recovery.
Access to Other Treatment Options: Rehab centers can provide access to other treatment options, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and 12-step programs, which can help with long-term recovery.

Opioid Addiction Detox and Recovery in Murfreesboro, TN

When you want help to stop using opioids, help is available at Tulip Hill in Murfreesboro, TN. We provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment to start your detox and rehab treatment tailored to your specific needs. To learn more about our opioid treatment programs or to start yours, contact us today.

Are Veterans Becoming Addicted to Opioids?

Written by Tulip Hill Recovery Tulip Hill Recovery on November 4, 2022. Posted in Drug Addiction, Opioids, Stories, Substance Addiction.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Centers for Disease Control, veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die from an opioid overdose than the civilian population. In addition, approximately two thirds of veterans have chronic pain that requires pain management. Unfortunately, from 2001 to 2009, military doctors wrote almost 3.8 million prescriptions for opioids, more than quadrupling the number written in 2001, resulting in an increase in veterans addicted to opioids.

The Importance of National Veterans and Military Families Month

November is National Veterans and Military Families Month. The Department of Defense (DOD) recognizes the important role families play in providing support for transitioning veterans. The month-long recognition aims to increase awareness of new programs and other resources available to military families and veterans.

Some of these programs provide support for family members and veterans struggling with pain and opioid use disorders. They can provide access to resources to better help families understand what they can do to support their loved ones and encourage and support addiction recovery without becoming an enabler.

Why Do Veterans Abuse Opioids?

Most veterans do not intentionally misuse opioids. Instead, the misuse of opioids comes about gradually as a result of being prescribed opioids to treat pain and related injuries once the veteran returns home from active duty. Since most veterans experience chronic pain, the use of opioids long-term results in dependence.

Unfortunately, the longer opioids are taken, the body builds up a tolerance to them. So, the veteran taking the prescription drugs starts to notice their pain is not subsiding. So, sadly, they start self-regulating their dosage and increasing it until their pain subsides.

Gradually, from self-medicating, the dependence on opioids becomes an addiction. At this point, they may take substantial doses of opioids and believe they cannot function without them. Some veterans may also turn to street opioids when they cannot get the number of prescription drugs needed to support their addiction.

Veteran Opioid Addiction Statistics

In 2013, the VA launched an Opioid Safety Initiative to address the increase in opioid misuse by veterans. With the launch of the new initiative, the VA successfully reduced the number of prescription opioids being administered to veterans from more than 679,000 in 2012 to around 247,000 in 2020 – a reduction of 64 percent.

Even with these efforts, the rate of opioid overdoses rose 53 percent from 2010 to 2019. Unfortunately, veterans are still twice as likely to overdose from opioids compared to the civilian population.

How Are Veterans Being Impacted by the Opioid Epidemic?

The opioid epidemic is impacting veterans due to the accessibility of prescription opioids in the civilian sector. Even if they cannot obtain them through the VA, they can still get them through civilian healthcare providers. In addition, street opioids are often easily obtainable when one knows where to look.

Veterans with opioid use disorders often have the following in common:

They deployed multiple times.
They witnessed combat or some other highly traumatic experience.
They exhibit the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

Since the military has strict drug abuse policies, active duty service personnel turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. As a result, they often develop addictive tendencies while on active duty. In addition, they have access to prescription opioids to treat pain while on active duty.

Once they leave active duty and transition to veteran status, they will have already laid the groundwork for substance misuse. Unfortunately, substance misuse often becomes more prevalent since veterans no longer have to adhere to active-duty drug abuse policies.

Signs Veterans Are Becoming Addicted to Opioids

Some specific signs and symptoms indicate veterans are becoming addicted to opioids, including the following:

Self-regulating opioid drug use.
Losing interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed.
Associating with other people who misuse substances.
Isolating from family and friends.
Lack of personal hygiene.
Reduced appetite and weight loss.
Attempting to obtain multiple prescriptions of opioids.
Stealing opioids from others.
Exhibiting flu-like symptoms.
Impaired thinking, concentration, and focus.
Making rash and impulsive decisions.
Having financial problems.
Frequent mood swings.
Easily irritated or angered.
Depression and paranoia.
Engaging in drug-seeking behaviors.
Substituting prescription opioids with street opioids.

How to Help Veterans Addicted to Opioids

Opioid use disorder is a disease that is treatable when you or a veteran you care about wants help. However, you should never force veterans addicted to opioids to seek treatment, as they will usually relapse.

For detox and addiction treatment to be successful, one must be willing and ready to seek help for their opioid addiction. As a family member of a veteran, you can educate yourself about addiction and what you can do to encourage your loved one to seek treatment.

You can also join family support groups and go to individual counseling to learn how to avoid enabling your loved one’s addiction. In addition, you could have an interventionist stage an intervention to make your loved one more aware of how their addiction impacts your family.

Opioid Detox and Addiction Treatment for Veterans in Murfreesboro, TN

Tulip Hill in Murfreesboro, TN, supports and assists veterans addicted to opioids and their families. We offer medically supervised detox with customizable treatment plans for opioid use disorder and co-occurring disorders. To learn more about opioid addiction or to start detox and addiction treatment, contact us today.