Opiate Detox

Opioid detox is the process of clearing opioids from the body while safely managing withdrawal symptoms. It’s often the first and most important stage of addiction treatment because it prepares your body and mind for long-term recovery. At Olympia Grove Recovery, detox is medically supervised and trauma-informed, which means care focuses on both physical safety and emotional well-being.

During detox, your vital signs are closely monitored, and medications may be used to reduce discomfort, stabilize mood, and lower the risk of complications. The goal is to manage withdrawal and begin healing in an environment that values dignity and support.

The medical detox program at Olympia Grove Recovery emphasizes:

• Comfort through evidence-based medication support
• Safety with 24/7 nursing and medical supervision
• Compassionate care rooted in respect and understanding
• A smooth transition into residential or medication-assisted treatment

This approach addresses each person’s recovery needs and creates a solid foundation for lasting healing and personal growth.

Detox is appropriate for anyone who has developed physical dependence on prescription painkillers, heroin, fentanyl, or other opioids. Even short-term or medically prescribed use can lead to dependence when tolerance increases.

You may benefit from opiate detox if you notice these signs:

• Cravings or the urge to use opioids regularly
• Withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, chills, or anxiety between doses
• Needing higher doses to feel the same effects
• Difficulty controlling or stopping use despite negative consequences

If these signs sound familiar, seeking help early can prevent serious health risks such as overdose or long-term organ damage. At Olympia Grove Recovery, the admissions team is available 24 hours a day to assess your needs and get you started with your recovery.

Opiate withdrawal can vary depending on the type of opioid used, how long it was taken, and individual health factors. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Buprenorphine (Subutex) and buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same euphoric effects as other opioids. Induction begins once early withdrawal starts, followed by stabilization and a gradual taper to support comfort and readiness for long-term recovery.

For individuals who do not use MAT, non-opioid medications may be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms:

• Clonidine or lofexidine for anxiety and blood pressure regulation
• NSAIDs for body aches and pain
• Antiemetics and antidiarrheals for stomach discomfort

Once opioids are fully cleared, naltrexone (Vivitrol) may be used to block the effects of opioids and reduce cravings. The Olympia Grove Recovery team carefully times the start of naltrexone to prevent precipitated withdrawal and support long-term relapse prevention.

Our inpatient opiate detox provides a safe, structured environment where you can focus entirely on healing. This level of care offers 24/7 medical supervision and emotional support during withdrawal. In our monitored environment, you are safely protected from triggers, relapse risks, and serious medical complications that can arise when detoxing alone.

Who benefits from inpatient detox?

Inpatient detox may be recommended if you:

• Have used opioids heavily or for an extended period
• Are detoxing from multiple substances
• Have medical or mental health conditions that require close observation
• Do not have stable housing or reliable social support
• Have experienced severe withdrawal or relapse in the past

What inpatient detox includes

Inpatient detox at Olympia Grove Recovery includes continuous monitoring by a licensed medical team, individualized medication management, and trauma-informed emotional care. Clients receive meals, rest, and therapeutic support in a calm, respectful environment for stability and comfort.

Length of stay and transition planning

Most inpatient detox programs at Olympia Grove Recovery last three to 10 days, depending on each client’s progress and medical needs. Once stabilized, clients work with the care team to move into the next phase of treatment, such as residential care or medication-assisted therapy, creating a clear path toward lasting recovery.

Safety is at the heart of every detox at Olympia Grove Recovery. The medical team continuously tracks vital signs, hydration levels, and medication responses to manage complications such as dehydration or blood pressure changes.

The program also incorporates naloxone education, teaching clients and families how to recognize and respond to an overdose. Every protocol follows evidence-based medical standards to maintain a safe, supportive environment.

Key safety measures include:

• 24/7 clinical supervision
• Daily physician and nurse assessments
• On-site medication management
• Infection control and emergency response protocols

These safeguards create a foundation of trust and stability, allowing you to focus completely on your recovery.

Each type of opioid presents unique detox challenges, and our Olympia Grove Recovery team tailors care to meet them.

Because fentanyl is highly potent and stored in body fat, withdrawal may last longer or return after initial stabilization. Clinicians use slow tapers and careful medication adjustments to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of precipitated withdrawal.

Heroin withdrawal begins quickly, often within hours, and peaks after two to three days. Supportive care focuses on hydration, rest, and symptom management, with an optional transition to Suboxone or methadone for stabilization.

Methadone detox requires a gradual taper to avoid severe withdrawal. Clients are closely monitored for sleep disruption, mood swings, and body aches. Comfort medications and counseling are provided to support both physical and emotional stability.

Detox is a crucial first step in recovery, but it's just the beginning. To support lasting change, Olympia Grove Recovery integrates behavioral therapies that help clients manage triggers, build resilience, and reconnect with purpose.

Therapies may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Addressing thoughts and behaviors linked to substance use
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Teaching emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthy coping skills
• Motivational interviewing (MI): Strengthening motivation for change and commitment to recovery goals
• Reality therapy: Helping individuals take responsibility for choices and build practical problem-solving skills

At Olympia Grove Recovery, individual and group therapy play a key role in treatment. They help clients address the root causes of addiction, build stronger coping skills, and find support among peers with shared experiences. Family therapy is also included in the recovery process, offering loved ones the opportunity to understand addiction, rebuild trust, and grow together in a supportive environment.

Many people entering detox also face mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder. The co-occurring disorders treatment program at Olympia Grove Recovery addresses both conditions simultaneously, recognizing that lasting recovery depends on emotional as well as physical healing.

Services may include:

• Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
• Individual and group therapy focused on trauma recovery
• Coordination between addiction specialists and mental health providers

This integrated approach promotes balance and stability from the earliest stage of treatment.

Recovery continues long after detox. Olympia Grove Recovery provides aftercare support to help clients stay connected, accountable, and focused on long-term progress.

Aftercare may include:

• Continuing MAT such as Suboxone, Subutex, or Vivitrol
• Ongoing therapy for coping strategies and relapse prevention
• Connection with support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery

These programs help individuals maintain progress and build healthy routines.

Some individuals begin using opioids to manage chronic pain. After detox, finding safer ways to relieve pain is essential to prevent relapse.

Non-opioid and non-pharmacologic approaches may include:

• Physical therapy and gentle exercise
• Mind-body practices such as yoga or meditation
• Acupuncture or massage therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral strategies for pain tolerance
• Consultation with pain specialists for long-term management

By combining medical and therapeutic support, Olympia Grove Recovery helps clients rebuild their health and confidence without returning to opioids.

The accredited medical detox program at Olympia Grove Recovery provides accessible, high-quality care close to home in Euclid, Ohio, serving adults across the Greater Cleveland area. The center admits and transports clients 24/7, every day of the year, so help is always available when you are ready.

What to bring and how to prepare:

• Comfortable clothing and personal hygiene items
• Medications in original containers
• A list of emergency contacts and health information
• Small comfort items such as snacks or photos

The admissions team verifies insurance, including Medicaid, and walks you through every step of the process before you arrive.

You do not have to face withdrawal or the fear of starting over on your own. Our compassionate medical team is here to help you begin safely, comfortably, and with dignity. Same-day assessments and 24/7 admissions mean that whenever you are ready, a place of healing is ready for you. You can call 216.438.8351 today or reach out online to begin a confidential meth detox assessment. Recovery is possible—and it can start today.