How Long Does an Opioid High Last?
Opioids can be natural, semi-synthetic, or synthetic drugs that are generally used to reduce pain. However, there are also illicit opioids, such as heroin and street fentanyl, which are used to get high. Prescription opioids such as hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone can also make people feel very relaxed and “high” even when taken as prescribed. If you have used an opioid, you may be wondering how long does an opioid high last? The answer is it depends on many things, including which of the opioids from strongest to weakest was used.
When opioids are taken for pain management, the length of their effects can differ based on the specific type of opioid. Generally, a single dose can relieve pain for four to five hours, meaning the accompanying “high” feeling can persist for a similar duration. Long-acting opioids, designed to slowly release steady amounts of the medication into the bloodstream gradually over time, may have prolonged effects.
So, how long does an opioid high last? Illegal opioids like heroin and street fentanyl are more difficult to predict how long an opioid high lasts due to inconsistent dosages and methods of use. Heroin that is injected produces a high within 20 seconds, peaks around two hours, and lasts up to four hours or longer. Those who snort or smoke heroin will feel high in about 10 minutes, with its effects lasting anywhere from four to five hours.
What Kind of High Do Opioids Give?
Opioids interact with brain receptors to inhibit pain signals and release large amounts of dopamine in the brain’s reward regions. They have a potent interaction directly with the brain’s chemistry, decreasing pain perception and increasing a sense of well-being. Although prescribed to alleviate pain, opioids have several side effects, including nausea, vomiting, slowed breathing, constipation, drowsiness, and euphoria. Increased dosages will have a more intense euphoric effect. As central nervous system depressants, opioids can slow down breathing and reduce oxygen to the brain, resulting in foggy brain functioning.
Both prescription and illicit opioids induce similar euphoric effects, with higher doses triggering a greater high. These pleasurable feelings often are what drive people toward repeated use, potentially leading to dependency and eventually addiction. Furthermore, its impact on the brain’s reward system reinforces this behavior. Chronic opioid use can disrupt the reward processing, leading to anhedonia or a diminished interest in non-drug activities that once brought pleasure. Understanding the opioid epidemic requires understanding how these drugs interact with our brains and why these feelings can quickly lead to addiction.
How Do People Act on Opioids?
As a central nervous system depressant, opioids will cause an overall feeling of relaxation and slow down bodily functioning. Someone under the influence of opioids may appear drowsy, potentially nodding mid-conversation, exhibit slow reactions, slurred speech, inability to concentrate, forgetfulness, and constricted pupils. They may sleep for longer periods of time or more often as well. While these effects are typical when opioids are taken as prescribed for pain relief, signs of misuse may be cause for concern.
Even though opioids cause euphoria, users may have feelings of anxiety and depression, which can lead to rapid mood swings and can escalate to aggressive and even violent behavior. Signs of opioid abuse and addiction can vary among people. Side effects mentioned above will be more pronounced along with common signs of addiction, such as:
- Using opioids for extended periods or in larger quantities than intended.
- Inability to cut down or stop use despite the desire to do so.
- Developing cravings for opioids.
- Withdrawing from social or recreational activities once enjoyed.
- Using opioids in dangerous situations, such as while driving.
- Failing to meet personal, work, or academic responsibilities.
- Continued opioid use despite negative physical, psychological, or personal consequences.
- Developing withdrawal symptoms when not using.
What Is the Biggest Side Effect of Opioids?
One of the most significant risks associated with opioids is their high potential for dependency and addiction. Even when taken as prescribed, a person can develop an opioid use disorder. Addiction is a chronic relapsing disorder that can severely affect every aspect of a person’s life and well-being. Long-term opioid abuse increases the risk of infections, fractures, cardiovascular complications, sleep disorders, bowel dysfunction, and overdose. Addiction can have an impact on virtually all aspects of a person’s life, including marital issues, family problems, social isolation, work or school performance, loss of friendships, legal issues, and financial hardships.
One of the most challenging aspects of opioid dependency is withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop use. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, agitation, muscle aches, flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sleep problems, and intense opioid cravings. While not life-threatening, withdrawal symptoms can make it extremely hard to stop using opioids. Often, people may require a medical detox to safely and successfully stop use. Substance use disorders are challenging to overcome on their own, but an opioid addiction treatment program can provide the support and tools needed to achieve lasting recovery.
Additionally, opioid misuse can lead to developing mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, known as co-occurring disorders. The effects of opioids on brain chemistry can trigger a pre-existing mental health disorder, which can lead the person to want to use more opioids to self-medicate.
Some other serious opioid side effects that can occur even when taken as directed include:
- Increased pain sensitivity.
- Constipation.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dry mouth.
- Confusion.
- Depression.
- Itching and sweating.
- Sleepiness and dizziness.
- Low testosterone.
- Overdose leading to death.
Why Do People Abuse Opioids?
People who use prescription opioids can feel relaxed and happy. Opioids will trigger the release of endorphins, which tell your body to feel good and euphoric; however, this sensation is short-lived. As the effects wear off, the person may want to feel that effect again, resulting in repeated use. Over time, the body develops a tolerance to the drug and needs more of it to get the effects. Continued misuse can lead to dependence, meaning that the body cannot function properly without the drug and will develop withdrawal symptoms when the opioid is not present. Opioids significantly impact the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Addiction can slowly develop over time, making it difficult to stop abusing opioids.
Repeated opioid abuse weakens circuits in the brain that help people exercise self-control and tolerate stress. If they have developed a mental health disorder as a result of opioid abuse, they may try to self-medicate with more opioids to relieve symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. This can make it more difficult to control drug use, even when it leads to negative consequences. The ability to stop using opioids increases as addiction progresses. With the current opioid death toll on the rise, getting treatment as soon as possible is a life-saving choice.
Recovery from Abuse and Opioid Highs Is Possible with WhiteSands Treatment
If you find yourself questioning how long does an opioid high last often and are concerned about potentially developing an opioid use problem, WhiteSands Treatment is ready to assist you. Initially, you may have turned to opioids for pain relief after an accident or surgery, but now you feel you can’t function without them. Recognizing you can’t quit opioid use on your own is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign that you need support. Just as you sought medical intervention for your pain, seeking out substance abuse treatment is a crucial step toward overcoming opioid dependence.
At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer tailored, comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction programs that will guide you toward lasting recovery. Our medical detox programs include medication management and holistic therapies to ease withdrawal symptoms so you can safely stop opioid use. Patients can select treatment options that suit their needs, whether they prefer inpatient care or outpatient services. If you are struggling with opioid misuse and want to learn more about how treatment at WhiteSands Treatment can help you get started on your recovery journey, please give us a call today at 877-855-3470.
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
