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Heroin/Opiate Detox - Rapid Heroin/Opiate Detoxification under Anesthesia

Written by: Wendy Moelker, Psychologist in charge, tutor, Emergis center for mental health care, Goes, the Netherlands.
First version: 22 Jul 2008. Latest revision: 24 Jul 2008.

Abstract:

Yes, a combination of anesthetic in the beginning and switching to Naltrexone can help to get rid of heroin dependence.

Question:

Is rapid opiate (heroin) detoxification under an anesthesia still used?

Answer:

In some clinics, treatment of heroin addiction under an anesthetic is still used and consists of two phases. During phase one, the addict is anesthetized and given Naltrexone, which immediately blocks the effects of heroin. The user experiences some serious withdrawal symptoms but is not aware of them because of the anesthetic. During phase two, the user keeps on using Naltrexone for the next ten months to prevent relapse into the old habit, since Naltrexone blocks the effects of heroin. So taking heroin is useless. After a long period of using Naltrexone, the need for heroin will decrease. Besides using the medication, treatment takes place in a health care center, for instance by having talks with therapists. However, research on this treatment is still being done.

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