Dilaudid is a potent opioid-based medication that is used for severe pain brought on by serious illnesses or medical procedures. While this medication is mainly prescribed for short-term use, it is highly addictive and poses a risk of abuse if it is taken for an extended period. Dilaudid is also fast-acting, leading to increased tolerance and unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if the drug is discontinued.
Fortunately, there are numerous treatment options for opioid addictions like Dilaudid. In this article, we cover what symptoms can arise during Dilaudid withdrawal and the timelines for recovery. We also address the range of treatment options available and how to seek help.
Overview
Treating a Dilaudid addiction often requires multiple stages of rehab that address a person’s physical, psychological, and emotional health. The first stage in this process is usually to detox from the drug before moving on to other stages of therapy. This requires a person to stop taking Dilaudid, which is best done through medically supervised detox, especially as opioids can be difficult to withdraw from.
During the detox process, individuals will experience withdrawal symptoms which can vary between each person. These are also dependent on several factors such as:
- Levels of tolerance
- Individual physiology
- How long the person used the drug
- Dosages and frequency of use
- Whether they engage in “poly-drug use” (using multiple drugs at once)
- If a person has co-occurring conditions or mental health issues
Dilaudid Withdrawal Symptoms
Opioid withdrawal creates a number of uncomfortable symptoms, which is why medical supervision and a tapering off program are recommended. Generally, withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Elevated blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Flu-like symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Muscle and bone pain
- Seizures
- Hives
- Nausea
Withdrawal Timeline
Withdrawal can vary significantly between people depending on how long they’ve been taking Dilaudid and in what amounts. While there is no exact timeline for withdrawal, it usually consists of the following pattern:
First Phase (12 – 48 hours)
Acute withdrawal symptoms tend to appear within the first 12 to 48 hours. This can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Chills
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle spasms
- Aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Decreased appetite
- Anxiety and depression
- Severe cravings
During this period, some individuals can become extremely confused and suicidal. This is a dangerous and crucial time as individuals can be prone to relapse or making poor decisions when the symptoms are at their peak. Problems with attention, memory, and problem-solving may also be present.
Second Phase (48 – 72 hours)
Withdrawal symptoms tend to become less intense after the 48-to-72-hour mark. During this time, a person may become more focused on trying to get through the withdrawal period. However, they may still present with symptoms such as nausea, irritability, anxiety, loss of appetite, depression, and cravings.
Third Phase (Days 5 – 7)
For most cases, withdrawal symptoms from opioids like Dilaudid will resolve within 5 to 7 days after the last dose. However, other psychological symptoms can emerge during this period, such as anxiety, depression, apathy, anhedonia, and intermittent cravings. Depending on a person’s underlying issues and length of drug use, these symptoms can last for weeks or months. Rehab programs are especially useful during this period as individuals can learn to deal with their underlying issues as their symptoms gradually fade.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
With opioids like Dilaudid, withdrawal symptoms that last for longer than 2 or 3 weeks are referred to as PAWS. The PAWS period differs depending on the type of drug; however, with Dilaudid, symptoms and cravings can last for a month or more.
Some of the ongoing symptoms can include:
- Increased anxiety
- Poor focus
- Irritability
- Problems sleeping
- Fatigue
- Consistently poor mood
- Continued depression
- Decreased ability to make decisions
Is Dilaudid Withdrawal Dangerous?
Opioid withdrawal is a complex process that is best done under medical supervision. Complications can arise and become dangerous depending on a person’s health and their level of addiction. Some of the risks that can occur during Dilaudid withdrawal include:
Dehydration
Electrolyte imbalance and dehydration can occur, especially following bouts of vomiting and diarrhea.
Aspiration
Aspiration occurs when vomited material is inhaled into the lungs. This can lead to respiratory issues such as pneumonia.
Cardiac Issues
Withdrawal can put a strain on the heart, especially as it tends to increase heart rate and blood pressure. This can trigger underlying heart conditions.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common side effect of opioid withdrawal. If a person has an underlying anxiety condition, this can be worsened during detox.
Depression and Suicide
Depression is another side effect of withdrawal and could trigger suicidal ideation, particularly if a person has an underlying clinical mood disorder.
Risk of Overdose
The withdrawal period is a dangerous time as people can relapse due to the discomfort of detoxing. Withdrawal also lowers a person’s tolerance, so relapsing can result in fatal overdoses.
Along with these complications, there are other health complications associated with long-term Dilaudid abuse. These will depend on factors such as the duration and intensity of use.
Dilaudid Treatment Programs
While Dilaudid can be difficult to withdraw from, there are ample treatment programs available. Many centers provide individualized recovery programs so that your treatment is tailored to your individual needs. Below is a list of the most common types of substance abuse treatment programs and what they entail.
Detox Programs
Detox programs are designed to medically supervise a person’s withdrawal from substances. As withdrawal from drugs like opioids can be dangerous, a detox center allows a person to gradually wean off substances in comfortable surroundings. Available at certain clinics, rehab centers, and medical facilities, detox programs are usually led by medical staff who have experience with addiction and drug withdrawal. The benefit of a detox center is that assistance is always on hand, and they can provide medications or other care to ease symptoms and make withdrawal as comfortable as possible.
Short-Term Inpatient (Residential)
Inpatient treatment can either be short or long-term, depending on your needs. Short-term inpatient centers typically consist of medical detox, followed by an addiction treatment program involving therapy or counseling. Lasting for around 30 to 90 days, short-term inpatient programs often provide 24-hour medical support and include a team of doctors, counselors, clinicians, and therapists. Ranging from basic amenities to luxury options, short-inpatient rehab is suited to individuals who require detox and therapy but don’t require long-term treatment.
Long-Term Inpatient
Long-term inpatient treatment is like short-term rehab, but the length ranges between 3 to 18 months. This type of program is suited to clients with severe addictions or co-occurring mental health issues and who need extended support. Long-term inpatient programs can also be more effective as they provide an opportunity for a person to detox from substances and spend time getting to the root causes of their addiction. Like short-term programs, long-term inpatient rehab can vary in terms of basic or luxury amenities. Treatment typically consists of individual psychotherapy, group therapy, wellness programs (e.g., health and fitness), family programming, nutrition, and more.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are often a step down from inpatient treatment as they provide similar intensive therapies while allowing a client to live at home. PHP programs are also referred to as “day treatment” and typically involve 4 to 8 hours of treatment per day for 5 to 7 days a week. Like inpatient treatment, a medical staff is usually on hand to assist with detox, medication management, and withdrawal symptoms. PHP programs also include in-depth therapy programs such as individual and group counseling, and sessions that focus on key issues such as anger management, relapse prevention, coping skills, employment assistance, and more.
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) are ideal for individuals who need to fit therapy around other activities such as work and family. IOP is also ideal for patients who have just completed inpatient treatment and require ongoing therapy. While PHP is usually intended to be shorter term, IOP can often go on for a longer period, requiring 2 to 4 hours of treatment per day for 2 to 5 days a week.
IOP programs also vary, but they are usually a mixture of individual and group counseling, 12-Step programs, psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy, holistic therapies, and educational sessions about addiction, preventing relapses, and building new skills.
Standard Outpatient Programs
The most basic rehab programs are standard outpatient. These programs involve less time commitment and are often viewed as a stepping stone towards independent, sober living. Standard outpatient programs typically involve treatment 1 or 2 days per week and are ideal for clients who are juggling other responsibilities like family, school, or work. Standard outpatient programs typically include counseling, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.), and the 12-Steps, as well as practical sessions that deal with autonomy, goal setting, and skill-building.
Cold Turkey
While it can be tempting to stop Dilaudid on your own, withdrawing cold turkey is not recommended. Opioids are notorious for producing uncomfortable symptoms during the withdrawal period. Therefore, it is recommended that you do this under medical supervision where you can be kept safe and comfortable. Stopping on your own can result in complications and dangerous side effects that need monitoring.
Therapeutic Modalities
During rehab, centers and clinics provide a range of treatments such as medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies. Below are some of the more effective therapy options for Dilaudid addiction.
Dual Diagnosis
Rehab facilities that offer dual diagnosis programs are often staffed with psychiatrists or clinical therapists that can diagnose and/or treat co-occurring mental health conditions. This kind of treatment is especially useful for people who have underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This allows clinicians to address these conditions alongside withdrawal from the Dilaudid itself.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapies for substance abuse and concurrent mental health conditions. CBT helps individuals change negative cycles of thought and behavior into more positive ones. Proven to be effective for addiction and mental health conditions, CBT also helps clients learn how to recognize “automatic thoughts” and dysfunctional thinking patterns, as well as how to understand the behavior of others and how to develop a greater sense of self-understanding and confidence. CBT also helps clients find solutions to triggers that might encourage drug use.
Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on mindfulness, how to live in the moment, cope with stress, and improve relationships. DBT also helps clients identify negative influences in their lives and learn how to develop healthy coping skills. This kind of therapy is useful for people who have other mental health conditions like anxiety or mood disorders. DBT is also effective for PTSD and for people who exhibit self-destructive behaviors.
The Matrix Model
The Matrix Model is another form of therapy that has shown to be effective in treating substance abuse. This 16-week approach is comprehensive and consists of a mixture of behavioral therapy, individual counseling, 12-Step support, family education, drug testing, and encouraging non-drug-related activities. Through guided therapy, patients learn about issues connected to addiction and relapse. These sessions are designed to promote self-esteem and self-worth while the patient and therapist work together to reinforce positive behavioral changes.
Contingency Management
Contingency management is another effective treatment for addiction and is based on a reward system. In most cases, the therapist provides incentives to the patient in exchange for ongoing abstinence and acceptance of treatment. One well-known contingency approach is Motivational Incentives for Enhancing Drug Abuse Recovery (MIEDAR), which is effective for teaching individuals that it is possible to achieve abstinence using self-control. Participants who continue to abstain receive rewards such as prize draws for money or in-demand objects.
Medications & Supplements
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a common therapy for opioid addiction. These drugs help a person manage withdrawal symptoms and minimize cravings. Below are some of the most common MAT therapy drugs for opioids like Dilaudid:
Naltrexone
Naltrexone (also known as Narcan) stops opioids from acting on the brain and makes the experience less pleasurable, sometimes blocking the euphoric effects altogether. However, while naltrexone is an effective medication for preventing relapses or misuse, it may not stop drug cravings that are due to addiction.
Methadone
Methadone is often used to help people wean off heroin and is a useful drug for preventing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Methadone is a safer opioid alternative that allows your body to return to normal and ease the Dilaudid withdrawal process.
Buprenorphine
Buprenorphine is commonly used in medication-assisted treatments for opioid addiction. This medication produces weak opioid-like effects and is a safe way to wean off stronger opioids like Dilaudid. When combined with naltrexone, it is known as Suboxone, and it is an effective treatment for individuals addicted to other opioids like heroin, morphine, and Dilaudid.
Clonidine
Clonidine is used to treat a range of conditions such as high blood pressure, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and diarrhea. However, it is also useful for drug withdrawal and for easing anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, and sweating during withdrawal.
Other Medications
Sometimes doctors will prescribe other medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs to help with muscle or joint pain during Dilaudid withdrawal. They may also provide anti-diarrheal medicines and anti-nauseants to help with stomach issues and vomiting. Other over-the-counter medications for opioid withdrawal include:
- Benadryl, trazodone, or hydroxyzine (Vistaril): for improving or aiding sleep.
- Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen: to relieve headaches and pain.
- Mylanta, Pepto-Bismol, or milk of magnesia: to help with gastric complaints.
Alternative or Holistic Therapies
Many rehab centers also provide holistic therapies. The purpose of these therapies is to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. These can be incredibly beneficial for providing calmness, spiritual support, emotional expression, improving physical health, and teaching valuable skills. Some of the popular holistic therapies include:
- Nutritional therapy
- Animal-assisted therapy (e.g., emotional support dogs)
- Massage therapy
- Adventure therapy (e.g., hiking or rock climbing)
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Art therapy, Music therapy
- Yoga, T’ai Chi
- Equine-assisted (horse) therapy
Lifestyle Adjustments
Recovering from Dilaudid addiction can be challenging, but there are ways to make this process easier. Along with treatment, lifestyle adjustments and self-care can ease the symptoms while transitioning to a new life.
Exercise
Exercise can stimulate endorphins which can help with anxiety, depression, and low mood. Examples include low- and high-intensity exercises such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, or yoga.
Meditation
Meditation can help calm anxious thoughts and reduce impulsive behavior, which is useful when recovering from addiction.
Eating Well
The right diet can help repair damage incurred following sustained drug use and lead to improved immunity, cognitive function, and energy.
Avoiding Triggers
Learning to avoid triggers like certain people, situations, or circumstances can help prevent a desire to take drugs.
New Hobbies
While cravings can be difficult to manage, hobbies such as sports, art, music, or crafts can be useful distractions.
Resources
If you or a loved one are struggling with Dilaudid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Treatment and support are readily available. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment.
You can also find a list of treatment centers near you on our website to help get you on the path to recovery.
Key Sources
Lesser, B. (2021). Physical Side Effects of Dilaudid Abuse. Dualdiagnosis.org. https://dualdiagnosis.org/dilaudid/physical-side-effects.
Mayo Clinic. (2021). Tapering off opioids: When and how. Mayoclinic.org. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/in-depth/tapering-off-opioids-when-and-how/art-20386036.
MedlinePlus. (2020). Opiate and opioid withdrawal. MedlinePlus.gov. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000949.htm.
Medical Disclaimer
At RehabAid.com, we are dedicated to helping people recover from problematic substance use and associated mental health disorders. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. Information on treatment and support options is readily available through the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-4357. To further assist you along the path to recovery, the treatment center locator on our website allows you to easily find rehabilitation programs and services in your local area.
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