Quitting Opioids Cold Turkey is Not Safe: Get Support at Knoxville TN Drug Treatment Centers

Knoxville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, renowned for its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and natural beauty. It serves as a hub for both innovation and tradition, with a lively downtown area that hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The city is also home to the University of Tennessee, which adds a youthful energy and contributes to its dynamic atmosphere. However, like many other cities, Knoxville is struggling with the opioid crisis, facing challenges related to opioid addiction and overdose that impact many individuals and families across the community.

In Knox County, drugs continue to affect young and middle-aged men (ages 35 to 44) more than women, with 65% of drug-related deaths occurring in men compared to 35% in women. In urban areas like Knoxville, the ratio of black-to-white overdose deaths is about 1:9, reflecting the area’s demographic makeup. [1]

When the harsh reality of opioid addiction becomes evident, many individuals feel a strong urge to quit immediately, often considering a “cold turkey” approach. However, quitting opioids cold turkey without professional oversight is highly unsafe due to severe withdrawal symptoms and the high risk of relapse. Knoxville drug treatment centers offer a safer alternative, providing medically supervised detox programs tailored to the unique needs of each person. These centers use a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and support groups to ease withdrawal symptoms, manage cravings, and address the underlying psychological aspects of addiction. This comprehensive approach mitigates the physical and emotional strain of withdrawal and enhances the likelihood of a successful and sustainable recovery.

Individuals are supported holistically by engaging with drug treatment centers in Tennessee, ensuring that their immediate and long-term health and well-being are prioritized. Embrace your courage – ask for help and begin to heal.

What Is the Addiction Rate in Tennessee?

About 70,000 people in Tennessee are addicted to opioids. Since 80% of crimes in the state are linked to drugs, it’s critical to fight against illegal drug use and abuse. [1] The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) collects data on the use of substances like tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs, as well as mental health in the U.S. Recently, 8.22 percent of people in Tennessee reported using illegal drugs, slightly above the national average of 8.02 percent. [2]

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of drug addiction in Tennessee:

• Prescription Practices: Historically, Tennessee has had high rates of prescription opioid use, which can lead to addiction. Easy access to these medications has often served as a gateway to misuse and, later, transition to more potent illicit drugs.
• Economic Factors: Parts of Tennessee face financial challenges, including high poverty and unemployment rates. Such socioeconomic stressors can increase the risk of drug use as individuals may turn to substances as a form of coping mechanism.
• Availability of Illicit Drugs: Tennessee’s geographic location makes it a transit route for drug trafficking, increasing the availability of illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl in the state.
• Lack of Resources: There can be a shortage of accessible and affordable addiction treatment services in certain areas, particularly in rural parts of the state. This lack of support makes recovery more difficult for those struggling with addiction. It also causes overdose risks, with people quitting opioids cold turkey and failing in the process.
• Mental Health Issues: Mental health and substance use disorders often coexist. Without adequate mental health services, individuals may use drugs as a way to self-medicate, further entrenching the cycle of addiction.
• Cultural Factors: In some communities, there might be a cultural acceptance of drug use, contributing to higher rates of substance abuse among residents.

Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, including improving treatment access and enhancing economic opportunities.

For those grappling with polydrug abuse, including alcohol, it’s essential to know that support is available. Attending AA meetings in Knoxville can be a powerful resource for achieving long-term abstinence. AA offers a welcoming community where individuals can share their experiences and struggles, gain support, and learn from others facing similar challenges. This peer support is invaluable for those committed to recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling, explore local AA meetings as a step towards a healthier, substance-free life.

What Medications Should Not Be Stopped Abruptly?

Stopping certain medications abruptly can have serious consequences. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing any prescription medicine. Here are some medications you should never stop abruptly:

• Painkiller Opioids: Stopping opioids cold turkey can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms due to the body’s physical dependence on the drug. Symptoms typically include intense cravings, nausea, sweating, shaking, and severe mood swings, which can begin within hours after the last dose. This abrupt cessation can be not only highly uncomfortable but also dangerous, potentially leading to relapse and severe health complications without medical supervision.
• Blood Pressure Medications (Beta-Blockers): Beta-blockers help regulate heart rate. Abruptly stopping them can lead to a rebound effect, causing a racing heart and potentially increasing the risk of a future heart attack.
• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): Anticoagulants like Coumadin prevent blood clots. Stopping them suddenly can lead to strokes or other serious complications.
• Anti-Anxiety Medications (Benzodiazepines): Benzodiazepines provide immediate relief for anxiety symptoms. However, stopping them abruptly can be dangerous. Always follow the doctor’s guidance.

Abruptly discontinuing medications can have adverse effects on your health. Seek professional advice and follow a safe plan for tapering off any medication.

How Long Does It Take for Side Effects to Go Away After Stopping Medication?

When stopping opioids, the duration and severity of side effects can vary depending on several factors, including the type of opioid used, the length of time the medication was taken, the dosage, and individual health conditions. The table below outlines general information about the timeline for the side effects (primarily withdrawal symptoms) to dissipate after stopping opioids.

Withdrawal symptoms can be managed safely and more comfortably under medical sustenance, and quitting opioids cold turkey is dangerous. Health professionals often use a tapering method to reduce the opioid dose slowly, or they might use medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and support recovery. Always consult a healthcare provider before stopping opioid use to ensure a safe and effective cessation plan.

After completing detox and a comprehensive addiction treatment program, transitioning to a halfway house can be a vital next step in your recovery journey. Halfway houses in Knoxville provide a supportive environment where you can continue to rebuild your life and sustain the progress you’ve made.

Quitting Opioids Cold Turkey is Not Recommended: Embrace Healing with Drug Treatment Centers in Knoxville, TN 

Recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD) is achievable with the proper treatment. Programs in medical detox can help those struggling with OUD. However, despite these supports, many people still face a high risk of returning to drug use, with relapse rates ranging from 30% to 70%. [4] Quitting opioids abruptly, known as going “cold turkey,” is also not recommended due to the severe and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms and relapse that can occur. Opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers, create a physical dependence, and sudden cessation can lead to acute withdrawal symptoms. The process is not only physically taxing but also emotionally daunting, as it can precipitate a sense of despair or depression due to sudden neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain.

Drug treatment centers in Knoxville offer a safer alternative through medically supervised detoxification and comprehensive addiction treatment programs. These centers utilize a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and counseling to manage withdrawal symptoms and address the psychological aspects of addiction. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone help reduce cravings and normalize body functions, creating a more stable platform for recovery. Alongside medication, therapy and support groups provide emotional support and coping strategies, helping individuals understand and combat the underlying causes of their addiction. Heal your heart today – reach out to Tennessee drug treatment centers for recovery resources.

Resources:

[1] Knox and Anderson Counties Drug-Related Death Report – https://www.knoxcounty.org/rfc/pdfs/KCRFC_DRD_Report_2022.pdf

[2] Drugs – TN (.gov)

[3] TENNESSEE DRUG CONTROL UPDATE – National Archives (.gov)

[4] Association between increased levels of hope and slower rates of relapse in opioid use disorder – HRB National Drugs Library