Opioid Addiction

“Opioids are a class of natural, semi-synthetic, and synthetic drugs that include both prescription medications and illegal drugs…” according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 

Hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, and codeine are prescription opioids, while heroin and illicit fentanyl are illegal opioids. Both forms can be addictive; however, prescription opioids can be especially dangerous because they are initially recommended by professionals, making it more difficult to identify when usage has become problematic. 

Opioids alter the brain’s pleasure pathways, which can very quickly lead to addiction. They affect a person’s opioid receptors in their brain, increasing dopamine for a temporary period. Over time, higher levels of opioids are needed to create the same feeling, often causing users to increase usage and ultimately develop an addiction.

Symptoms of Addiction

Addiction to opioids is associated with various physical, psychological, and behavioral effects. Symptoms of opioid addiction include:

  • Long-term constipation
  • Sweating, nausea, and/or chills when opioids are not used
  • Imbalanced hormones

  • Intense cravings
  • Anger, anxiousness, and/or irritability when opioids are not used
  • Depression
  • Lost interest in activities and responsibilities
  • Compromised decision-making and judgment

  • Continued use despite negative effects
  • "Doctor shopping,” or going to multiple medical providers to access more opioid medication
  • Stealing money to buy more drugs
  • Taking higher levels of medication than prescribed
  • Disrupted sleep and insomnia

Risk Factors

Opioid addiction looks different for everyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of addiction. Potential risk factors include:

Age: The likelihood of this addiction is greater in teenagers and young adults. 

Genetics: A family history of substance abuse increases one’s risk for opioid addiction. 

Lifestyle factors: When dealing with regular stress or financial challenges, some turn to opioids in an attempt to ease their worries. 

Risky behavior: Criminal and thrill-seeking behavior are common factors as well.

Mental health challenges: Those who suffer from a mental health condition, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder, face a greater risk. 

Academic problems: Individuals who do not perform well in school may develop an addiction. 

Abuse: Physical or sexual abuse can cause people to turn to substances in attempts to cope with their trauma. 

Interpersonal conflicts: Regular conflicts with friends, coworkers, and family put individuals at a higher risk. 

Tobacco use: Frequent tobacco use can also affect a person’s likelihood of becoming addicted to opioids.

What Is Medical Detox?

Medical detox is a process managed under professional healthcare supervision for cleansing the body of drugs. This process is often the beginning stage of a comprehensive treatment program.

Medical Detox for Opioid Addiction

Though opioids are highly addictive, medical detoxification (detox) services are available to help individuals overcome addiction. Jackson House Recovery Centers offers evidence-based, individualized medical detox in San Diego from a team of compassionate healthcare professionals.

Opioid Detox from Jackson House Recovery Centers

We recognize that the idea of undergoing detoxification may be intimidating, or individuals may be unsure of what the process will be like. The professional healthcare providers at Jackson House Recovery Centers take a compassionate and personalized approach to medical detox. Providing a caring and comfortable environment is important to us, and we offer safe, evidence-based detox treatment with a low staff-to-client ratio.

The timeframe for detoxification varies, though detoxification processes typically last 3-7 days. Allowing clients time to detox and prepare for what’s next is important to us.

Preparations for and the administration of detox care at Jackson House Recovery Centers include:

 

Admission and Initial Consultation

We want to provide a welcoming and streamlined admissions process. We will introduce each new client to our center and take time to discuss the client’s medical history, treatment goals, and concerns. 

Detox Plan Development

Our team will develop detox treatment plans that are both client-centered and evidence-based. Tailoring plans to client circumstances is an important aspect of our approach to care.

Detoxification Care 24/7

Detoxification care is provided 24/7. We offer monitoring, withdrawal symptom management,  and other support services from trained healthcare professionals throughout the day.

Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT)

When appropriate to client care, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) will be offered. This treatment method can be effective in helping individuals stabilize during detox.

ADDICTION QUIZ

We offer a 10-question quiz that can help identify an opioid addiction. The quiz, which is meant for informational purposes, is not an opioid addiction diagnosis, but it may help you better recognize if an addiction is present. Seek the guidance of a healthcare professional regarding opioid addiction.

Question 1

1. Have you ever used opioids that were not prescribed by your doctor or ignored the doctor’s instructions?

Question 2

2. How often do you use opioids?

Question 3

3. Have you developed a tolerance to opioids and found you need to use more in order to achieve the same results?

Question 4

4. Do you spend much of your time thinking about using opioids or where you will find them next?

Question 5

5. Do you use opioids when it could be physically dangerous for yourself or others such as driving a car or operating heavy machinery?

Question 6

6. Have opioids interfered with your ability to connect with the people you love?

Question 7

7. Have you missed work or social commitments because of opioid use?

Question 8

8. Have you tried to quit using opioids in the past but have been unable to stop?

Question 9

9. Have you stolen money so you can purchase opioids?

Question 10

10. Has someone you loved suggested you have a problem with opioids?

If you have selected answer "A" to any of the questions above, you could be struggling with an opioid addiction. A healthcare professional can provide you with a proper diagnosis and suggest the best treatment options for your needs. Call our team today to learn how we can help.

Continued Addiction Treatment

Detoxification services are just part of the treatment offerings available at Jackson House Recovery Centers. We offer the option for clients to continue addiction treatment after detoxification is complete. These services involve a variety of treatment modalities, holding to the belief that individualized care and community are key to addiction recovery. 

Our addiction treatment programs include individual and group therapies, stress management activities, and attention to nutrition.

Contact Us for Opioid Detox in San Diego

Our team provides compassionate treatment for opioid addiction, including caring detox services. Opioid addiction recovery is possible. Please contact us for opioid detoxification in San Diego for you or a loved one.

2456 E St, San Diego, CA 92102

We specialize in substance use disorders and helping you find sobriety.

(866) 396-3655

©2022

Jackson House Recovery Center (370182AP)
Valid through July 31, 2026
DHCS Licensing and Certification Division

Back to top