Heroin is a drug derived from morphine, which is a popular mind-altering substance. The appearance and color of heroin are determined by how it is manufactured and what other substances it may be mixed with. Heroin is an opioid, which is a type of drug. Some prescription pain relievers like oxycodone, codeine, and hydrocodone, are also opioids. Heroin use has skyrocketed in the last decade.

This rise is due to an increase in the misuse of prescription opioid pain relievers like Vicodin and OxyContin. Some people who become addicted to these prescription drugs often switch to heroin, which offers a similar effect but is much easier to get and less expensive.

Is Heroin Addictive?

Heroin is an extremely addictive drug. In 2016, approximately 626,000 people in the United States had a heroin use disorder, meaning they had serious issues with the drug, which causes health issues, disability, and difficulty meeting responsibilities at home, work, or school. In 2016, about 1,000 teenagers and 152,000 young adults had a recorded heroin use disorder.

As an addict, once you stop stops using the drug, you may experience extremely uncomfortable and painful withdrawal symptoms, which is why quitting is so difficult. These are some of the common symptoms experienced during withdrawal:

• Cold flashes with chills
• Muscle and bone pain
• Throwing up
• Trouble sleeping
• Diarrhea
• A strong craving for the drug
• Restlessness

How is Heroin Addiction Diagnosed?

In an addiction treatment center, A psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed drug and alcohol counselor will conduct a thorough examination and assessment to diagnose any type of substance use disorder, including opioid use disorder. A variety of tests are typically used. These include laboratory tests such as blood or urine tests, as well as clinical interviews. In the case you or a loved one has a heroin addiction, don’t hesitate to speak with a professional.

Treating Heroin Addiction

The withdrawal symptoms of heroin are severe and can be treated using several different treatment approaches, depending on the level of addiction and any underlying health issue. Medication-Assisted Treatment is one of the most effective treatment options offered by top detox and treatment centers, such as Bold Steps Behavioral Health, to help individuals safely detox under medical supervision.

This type of therapy employs approved medications like naltrexone and buprenorphine to alleviate withdrawal symptoms while decreasing drug cravings. When combined with substance abuse therapy and addiction counseling, MAT has been shown to be very effective.

Heroin Addiction Treatment Center Harrisburg

In most cases, professional assistance is required to suppress heroin addiction. If you are looking for a top heroin addiction treatment center Harrisburg for your addiction, Bold Steps Behavioral Health is here to help. At our center for addiction, we use a comprehensive, integrated approach to assist clients in overcoming drug addiction and achieving long-term wellness.

Speak with a High Bold Steps Behavioral Health treatment specialist today to begin your recovery journey. We also offer drug and alcohol rehab resources that make it easier for you to understand what you are up against.