Heroin dependence can feel like it controls everything—from how you wake up to how you make it through the day. The thought of withdrawal may seem overwhelming, but with the right medical care, recovery can start safely. At Jasper Grove Recovery, our heroin detox program provides 24-hour supervision, comfort-focused medical care, and ongoing support to help you begin your path toward long-term recovery.

What is heroin detox?

Heroin detox is the medically supervised process of clearing opioids from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. It’s the first step in recovery from heroin use disorder and sets the foundation for ongoing treatment.

Detox isn’t just about physical stabilization. The process also supports emotional regulation, nutritional balance, and sleep—helping your body and mind recover from dependence.

At Jasper Grove Recovery, medical detox includes continuous monitoring, medication support, and individualized care to reduce discomfort and keep you safe. Our clinical team ensures that detox transitions seamlessly into the next stage of treatment so you never have to face recovery alone.

Heroin withdrawal symptoms and timeline

Withdrawal occurs when the body adapts to the absence of heroin after prolonged use. While rarely life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable and sometimes medically complicated.

Early symptoms 

(6–24 hours after last use)

  • Anxiety, agitation, and restlessness
  • Muscle aches and joint pain
  • Runny nose, sweating, and watery eyes
  • Yawning and difficulty sleeping

Peak symptoms

(24–72 hours)

  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Dilated pupils, goosebumps, and chills
  • Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
  • Intense cravings and emotional distress

Late-phase symptoms

(days 4–10)

  • Fatigue, irritability, and mood swings
  • Depression or low motivation
  • Insomnia and muscle soreness

Post-acute withdrawal

(weeks to months)

Some people experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can involve mood fluctuations, sleep disturbance, and lingering cravings. Therapy and ongoing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) help manage these symptoms and support stability.

Medical detox for heroin: What to expect

At Jasper Grove Recovery, heroin detox is provided in a safe, medically monitored environment with care that prioritizes both comfort and safety.

Comprehensive assessment

Detox begins with an intake evaluation that reviews medical history, substance use patterns, and mental health needs. This assessment guides your individualized treatment plan and helps our team identify any co-occurring concerns that may require additional support.

Monitoring and stabilization

During detox, medical staff monitor vital signs, hydration, and withdrawal symptoms around the clock. Clinical staff use evidence-based protocols to assess withdrawal severity using the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS).

Comfort and symptom management

To minimize discomfort, our team provides medications and supportive care for:

  • Sleep issues and restlessness
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  • Temperature regulation and body aches
  • Anxiety, agitation, or mood swings

Clients receive hydration therapy, balanced meals, and a quiet environment designed to support rest and recovery.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for heroin detox and beyond

MAT is an essential part of heroin detox and long-term recovery. These medications reduce withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and relapse risk.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone) is a partial opioid agonist that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal discomfort. It can be started once moderate withdrawal symptoms appear, under medical supervision.

Methadone

Methadone is a full opioid agonist administered in controlled doses. It can stabilize withdrawal, improve comfort, and support long-term maintenance when clinically indicated.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is a non-opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of heroin and other opioids. It is typically introduced after detox, once opioids are fully cleared from the system.

Clonidine and lofexidine

These non-opioid medications can reduce autonomic symptoms such as sweating, chills, and elevated heart rate.

All medications are prescribed and managed by licensed medical professionals who monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

Levels of care for heroin detox and treatment

Jasper Grove Recovery provides medical detox, residential treatment, and PHP with boarding for people recovering from heroin addiction.

Medical detox

Detox provides a safe, structured setting for managing withdrawal symptoms. Clients receive 24/7 medical supervision, comfort care, and emotional support. The goal is stabilization and preparation for ongoing treatment.

Residential treatment

After detox, residential care continues the healing process in a therapeutic environment. Clients participate in daily therapy, group sessions, and skill-building activities that reinforce recovery principles and prepare for long-term success.

Behavioral therapies and supportive care

Therapy begins during detox and continues through residential treatment. Our approach is trauma-informed and based on evidence-backed behavioral methods.

Treatment may draw from:

  • Cognitive-behavioral techniques that build awareness of triggers and coping skills
  • Motivational counseling to strengthen commitment to recovery
  • SMART Recovery and Refuge Recovery principles for community support and accountability

Therapy is delivered through a combination of individual, group, and family sessions.

Supportive care complements therapy by emphasizing hydration, nutrition, and rest. Clients are encouraged to focus on gradual progress, self-care, and emotional regulation throughout treatment.

Relapse prevention and aftercare

Recovery doesn’t end with detox. Jasper Grove Recovery helps each client create a personalized aftercare plan that includes continued therapy, medication management, and peer support.

Aftercare planning may include:

  • Participation in MAT programs for continued stability
  • Family involvement and education
  • SMART Recovery and Narcotics Anonymous meetings
  • Alumni and peer networks for ongoing connection

Our goal is to help you leave treatment with structure, confidence, and a clear plan for maintaining sobriety.

Harm reduction and overdose prevention

After detox, the body’s tolerance for opioids drops quickly, increasing the risk of overdose if use resumes. To keep clients safe, we provide overdose prevention education and resources.

  • Naloxone (Narcan): Training and access for overdose reversal
  • Harm reduction guidance: Education on safe use and avoiding high-risk situations
  • Family support: Teaching loved ones how to respond in emergencies

These tools empower clients and families to stay protected during early recovery.

FAQs: Heroin detox

Acute withdrawal symptoms typically last 5–10 days, though mild symptoms like fatigue and sleep disruption may persist for several weeks.

Buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, clonidine, and lofexidine are commonly used to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings under medical supervision.

Detoxing from heroin without medical supervision can be dangerous. Severe dehydration, suicidal thoughts, or relapse can occur. Medical detox provides safety and professional care through every stage of withdrawal.

After detox, clients continue in residential treatment or PHP with boarding. Therapy, medication management, and peer support help maintain stability and reduce relapse risk.

Yes. Most major insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover medically supervised detox and addiction treatment. Our admissions staff can verify your benefits and help coordinate financial options.

Get help with heroin detox at Jasper Grove Recovery

If you or someone you love is struggling with heroin dependence, you don’t have to face it alone. Jasper Grove Recovery offers safe, medically supervised detox and a supportive environment where healing can begin.

Our team provides continuous medical monitoring, medication-assisted care, and evidence-based therapies to make detox more manageable and recovery more sustainable.

Call our admissions team at 317.527.4529 or contact us online to learn more about our heroin detox program and start your path to recovery today.