Skip to main content

Have any questions?

Contact Us
All articles

Opioid Addiction and the Brain

Understanding Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms: What You Need to Know

Opioid withdrawal is a complex and often difficult process that occurs when an individual stops using opioids after a period of prolonged use. It can manifest both physical and emotional symptoms that can be challenging to manage. Physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and sweating, while emotional symptoms can range from anxiety and restlessness to depression and irritability.

April 20, 2023

C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic Team

Black exit sign with red text on the roof thats electronic

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, it's important to understand the symptoms of opioid withdrawal and how to manage them. Opioid withdrawal can be a challenging and uncomfortable process, but with the right support and treatment, it's possible to overcome.

What is Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioid withdrawal is a set of physical and emotional symptoms that occur when someone stops using opioids after developing dependence. Opioid withdrawal can occur after a few hours or days of not using opioids, depending on the type and amount of opioids used.

Common Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms:

The symptoms of opioid withdrawal can vary in severity and duration, but some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramping and pain
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Anxiety, restlessness, and irritability
  • Insomnia and fatigue
  • Sweating and chills
  • Dilated pupils and blurry vision

Managing Opioid Withdrawal:

There are several options for managing opioid withdrawal, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and support services. MAT can be highly effective in managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the risk of relapse. Methadone is a commonly used medication in MAT for opioid addiction and can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.

Counseling and support services can also be helpful in managing opioid withdrawal and addiction. These services can provide individuals with the tools and skills needed to cope with triggers and stressors that can lead to relapse.

At CORE Medical Clinic, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment services, including medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and support services, to help individuals overcome opioid addiction and achieve lasting recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction or experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms, please contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help.

Educational content from Core Medical Clinic. This article does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Core Medical Clinic

Ready to talk with the C.O.R.E. team?

Recovery support starts with a clear next step.

Reach out to learn more about treatment options, appointment availability, and what care at C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic looks like.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

At C.O.R.E., we strive to individualize treatment and maximize success. There is no time pressure. Some patients do well with short-term treatment while others benefit from long-term treatment. We know relapse is common and can have devastating consequences, so we continue treatment as long as necessary to help each patient achieve lasting success.

We work hard to educate patients about the benefits and safety of MAT. Many myths exist regarding methadone and other medications, but these concerns are discussed thoroughly with your treatment team. MAT is closely monitored, and when patients are ready, medications can be tapered safely under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

We work closely with each patient to achieve a "normalizing" medication dose that relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings while minimizing side effects. Through collaboration between medical providers, counselors, and dispensing staff, most patients reach this goal within days or weeks.

Your first visit includes an intake assessment, medical history, physical examination, and counseling evaluation. Together we'll discuss treatment options and develop an individualized care plan. Medication doses are adjusted carefully based on your response, and regular communication with your care team is encouraged.

Not necessarily. C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic serves patients throughout Sacramento, West Sacramento, and surrounding communities. Many patients choose us because of our accessibility, treatment approach, and convenient location.

Opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable and often leads to continued opioid use without treatment. While opioid withdrawal itself is usually not life-threatening, withdrawal involving alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, or other substances can require coordinated medical care. Our treatment program helps minimize withdrawal symptoms through carefully monitored medication adjustments.

Most patients can continue working and maintaining their normal daily routines while beginning treatment. If residential or coordinated medical care is necessary, temporary time away from work may be recommended. Our clinic hours are designed to accommodate the schedules of working patients whenever possible.

C.O.R.E. Medical Clinic accepts several insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, MHN, Anthem, Medicare, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, Optum, Blue Shield of California, Magellan Health, and Western Health Advantage.

Don't see an answer to your question?

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you.

Contact Us
Core Medical Clinic patient care and recovery support
NavigationHomeAboutServicesArticlesResourcesContact Us
LocationsSacramento ClinicWest Sacramento Clinic
CareOur ServicesPatient ResourcesHealth ArticlesContact Us

You have right to verify a program’s license and/or certification status. You can do so at the following link:

Verify program license with DHCS
CARF accreditation

C.O.R.E Medical Clinic

© 2026 C.O.R.E. MEDICAL CLINIC.
All Rights Reserved.

Content last updated August 27th, 2026 @ 5:36pm CDT

HIPAA & Privacy Practices
Logo

Recovery With Respect

Improving the lives of individuals through comprehensive opioid replacement services

Contact Usor give us a call at 916.442.4985
Core Medical Clinic recovery care