Heroin Addiction Treatment

Opioids remain the leading driver of drug overdose deaths in South Carolina.

According to the South Carolina Department of Public Health, fentanyl and other synthetic opioids were involved in the majority of drug overdose deaths in the state in 2023 — and heroin, while less prevalent than it was before the fentanyl wave, continues to drive addiction and death across the Pee Dee region.

Recovery from heroin addiction is possible. It happens here.

What is Heroin?

Heroin is a highly addictive drug derived from morphine, which in itself comes from the seeds of poppy plants. It can be consumed via ingestion or injection and is commonly found in white or brown powder form, as well as the sticky brown “black tar” form.

As an opioid, heroin connects to the opioid receptors in the brain, blocking pain signals and causing a sense of euphoria. The body constantly seeks stability, so it adjusts to heroin over time, requiring more and more to create the same result. Before long, even a casual user can become addicted.

Signs of Heroin Addiction

Like other drugs, there are physical, behavioral, and psychological signs of heroin use and addiction.

Physically, heroin users often exhibit needle marks, “pinprick” pupils, slowed movement and speech, poor hygiene, and sudden weight loss. They may show sudden changes in behavior, from mood swings to agitation or apathy. They will begin withdrawing from their usual hobbies and social activities, choosing the drug above all else. Any interruption of a user’s regular consumption schedule can trigger withdrawal, causing sweats, nausea, diarrhea, and more.

Heroin Overdose

Knowing the signs of a heroin overdose — and what to do to stop one — can save a life. Like other opioids, heroin cause the normal function of the heart and lungs to slow down when taken in excess. As breathing slows, the person’s lips and fingertips will turn blue, and they may become nonresponsive. The skin could grow cold as the heart rate slows, and you may notice sudden muscle spasms or gurgling sounds from a blocked airway. If you see these signs, stepping in is vital. Administering naloxone (Narcan) to someone overdosing can save a life. Naloxone is available across South Carolina without a prescription. Click here for more resources on where to find it.

What Happens Before Heroin Treatment?

For most people with significant heroin or opioid dependence, the first step before beginning a treatment program is medical detox. Opioid withdrawal is rarely life-threatening, but it is intensely uncomfortable — and attempting to push through it without clinical support is one of the most common reasons people relapse before treatment can begin.

Owl's Nest Recovery does not provide medical detox. Before starting our program, clients with opioid dependence typically complete a supervised detox or stabilization elsewhere and then transition to Owl's Nest to begin treatment. Our admissions team can help you identify the right detox resource and coordinate the handoff so there is no gap in care. Call our admissions team and we will help you take the first step.

Get Help for Heroin Addiction

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is just one of the ways in which Owl’s Nest provides customized addiction treatment for clients across a comprehensive continuum of care. No matter where you are in your addiction, we can support you through detox, treatment, and aftercare so you can find the freedom you’ve been searching for. Recovery from heroin addiction is possible. Many people on our team have done it and are thriving today. Let hope take flight in your life today. Reach out for help.