What Does it Mean to Be Dope Sick?

More than 2.5 million people in the United States struggle with opioid abuse and addiction. People may abuse prescription or illicit opioid drugs. These drugs have a high risk of abuse and addiction. People who become addicted to opioids may require intensive, professional treatment to stop taking them.

People with opioid addiction typically experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking opioids. Some people use the term “dope sick” to describe someone experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can make it very challenging to quit opioids. Many people relapse to alleviate these intensely uncomfortable symptoms.

This article will explore what happens during opioid withdrawal.

It can be very challenging to stop using opioids. Many people require intensive treatment and support to manage the intense emotional and physical symptoms. Find the treatment and care you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to explore our programs or to schedule your first appointment.

What Does it Mean to Be Dope Sick?

Opioid abuse and addiction are common in the United States. Millions of people develop an addiction to opioid pain relievers or illicit opioid drugs, including heroin.

Opioids are derived from the opium poppy plant. These drugs affect how the body and brain communicate. People may experience pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria while using them. The pleasurable effects of opioids increase the risk of abuse and addiction.

Heavy or frequent opioid use can alter how the brain and body work. Over time, people may develop tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects) or dependence.

If someone with opioid dependence stops taking opioids, they are likely to go into withdrawal. Some people refer to opioid withdrawal as “dope sickness.” Opioid withdrawal can be intensely uncomfortable and may last for weeks or months. People need treatment and support to manage withdrawal symptoms and avoid relapse.

What are the Symptoms of Dopesickness?

Opioid drugs slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. People may experience side effects that make them want to take more. Over time, the body can become dependent on these drugs.

Dope sickness (opioid withdrawal) can occur when someone suddenly stops taking opioids. People may experience uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Nausea and vomiting
• Depression
• Chills
• Muscle aches and pains
• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Agitation
• Excessive sweating
• Difficulty maintaining concentration and focus
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes

These and other symptoms can make people very uncomfortable. Some people may experience life-threatening suicidal thoughts and depression during withdrawal. It is critical to have professional withdrawal management treatment to avoid complications.

The duration and severity of symptoms typically depend on how long someone used opioids, the severity of their addiction, and other factors. Generally, dope sick symptoms may last for several weeks or longer. Many people require long-term support to manage their symptoms and avoid relapse.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

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Recognizing Opioid Addiction

Opioid abuse can change the way a person looks, feels, thinks, and behaves. Recognizing opioid abuse and addiction can help you seek treatment to regain control over your substance use disorder.

Potential signs of opioid addiction include:

• Finishing prescription opioids early
• Doing dishonest or illegal things to get more opioids
• Exhibiting unusual behaviors or mood swings
• Falling behind at home, work, or school
• Isolating or suddenly having a new group of friends
• Obtaining multiple prescriptions for opioids from multiple doctors
• Significant changes in behaviors, sleep, appetite, or appearance

People can become addicted to opioids after using them for just a short period. It is critical to be aware of the risk of addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs.

Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about opioid abuse or to learn about our treatment programs.

What Happens in Opioid Addiction Treatment?

Medically assisted treatment (MAT) programs provide comprehensive addiction treatment. People with opioid use disorder receive tailored care during detox and throughout their recovery journey.

MAT treatment plans might include:

• Medications like buprenorphine, suboxone, and methadone to manage withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups
• Consistent access to treatment and support
• Psychoeducation
• Holistic therapies, including mindfulness, nutrition support, exercise, creative expression, and more

People may begin treatment in a detox program, which may last a week or more. Detox programs typically occur in an inpatient setting. After completing detox, people usually move on to comprehensive residential or outpatient programs.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with opioid addiction or dopesickness, you are not alone. Overcoming opioid abuse and addiction can be very challenging. Having the correct type of support at each stage of recovery is critical.

Alamo Behavioral Health offers a range of comprehensive treatment programs. Contact our intake specialists today to find the support, resources, and treatment you need.

References:

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Only 1 in 5 U.S. adults with opioid use disorder received medications to treat it in 2021
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): The Neurobiology of Opioid Dependence: Implications for Treatment
3. Science Direct: Opioid withdrawal symptoms, frequency, and pain characteristics as correlates of health risk among people who inject drugs