Opioid Withdrawal

OVERVIEW

Opioid withdrawal refers to a state in which a chronic opioid user no longer is taking this class of medications.

Heroin is of course a well known example of an opioid that is abused (source)
Heroin is of course a well known example of an opioid that is abused (source)
WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?

Symptoms can include: 

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Muscle aches

Physical exam findings: 

  • Dilated pupils
  • Piloerection (bristling of hairs)
  • Lacrimation
HOW DO WE TREAT IT? 

Clonidine can be sued to treat some of the symptoms of opiate withdrawal.

 

Page Updated: 08.29.2016