Break free from opioids dependence with 24/7 safe and compassionate medical supervision.

Why Medical Detox Is Essential for Opiate Withdrawal

Opiate dependence doesn’t discriminate. Whether your journey began with a prescription for back pain after an injury, medication following surgery, or recreational use that spiraled out of control, the result is the same: your body has become physically dependent on opiates to function normally, and stopping without medical support can be dangerous and overwhelming.

Many people attempt to quit opiates on their own, believing they can simply “tough it out” or taper down gradually. The reality is that unsupervised opiate withdrawal has extremely high failure rates, with studies showing that 80-90% of people relapse within the first week without professional help. This isn’t a matter of willpower or strength; it’s a medical reality.

The dangers of unsupervised opiate detox include:

Severe dehydration from persistent vomiting and diarrhea
Dangerous electrolyte imbalances that can affect heart rhythm and function
Extreme psychological distress including severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts
Unbearable physical symptoms that drive relapse before detox is complete
Fatal overdose risk upon relapse due to dramatically reduced tolerance
Complications from unknown drug purity (many prescription pills and heroin are now contaminated with fentanyl)
Medical emergencies with no trained staff to respond

After just a few days without opiates, your body’s tolerance drops significantly. If you relapse and use the same amount you were using before, you’re at extremely high risk for fatal overdose. This is the most dangerous aspect of attempting detox alone.

At Pathways Recovery Center, our medical opiate detox program provides the safety net, professional care, and evidence-based medications you need to get through withdrawal safely and begin your recovery with confidence. You don’t have to suffer through this alone.

Understanding Opiates: From Prescription Pills to Heroin

Opiates (also called opioids) are a class of drugs derived from or chemically similar to compounds found in the opium poppy plant. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, reducing the perception of pain and producing feelings of relaxation and euphoria.

Common opiates include:

Prescription Opioids:

Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet, Roxicodone)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco, Lortab)
Morphine (MS Contin, Kadian)
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
Codeine (often combined with acetaminophen or promethazine)
Tramadol (Ultram)
Fentanyl (Duragesic patches, Actiq lozenges)

Illicit Opiates:

Heroin (diacetylmorphine)
Illicitly manufactured fentanyl (powder, pills pressed to look like prescription opioids)

How Opiate Dependence Develops

What often starts as legitimate pain management can quickly turn into dependence. Here’s how it typically happens:

1. Initial prescription: You’re prescribed opiates after surgery, an injury, dental work, or for chronic pain management. At first, the medication works as intended, providing pain relief and allowing you to function.

2. Tolerance builds: Over time (sometimes just weeks), your body adapts to the presence of opiates. You need higher doses to achieve the same pain relief or euphoric effect. This is a normal physiological response, not a character flaw.

3. Dependence sets in: Your brain’s chemistry changes. Natural opioid production decreases because external opiates are doing the work. When you try to stop or reduce your dose, withdrawal symptoms begin. At this point, you’re taking the medication not just for pain relief but to avoid feeling sick.

4. The prescription runs out: Your doctor may refuse to refill the prescription, cut you off abruptly, or you may run out early. Suddenly, you’re in withdrawal and desperate for relief.

5. The crossover: Many people turn to illicit sources at this point. Some buy pills from friends, dealers, or online. Others discover that heroin is cheaper and more accessible than prescription opioids. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), nearly 80% of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids.

The Current Opioid Crisis

The opioid epidemic has devastated communities across the United States, with overdose deaths reaching record levels. What makes this crisis particularly dangerous today is the widespread contamination of the drug supply with illicitly manufactured fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine.

Many people who think they’re taking oxycodone, Percocet, or heroin are actually ingesting fentanyl or a mixture containing fentanyl. This dramatically increases overdose risk and complicates withdrawal, as fentanyl has different pharmacological properties than traditional opiates.

If you’re struggling with opiate dependence, you’re not alone, and you’re not to blame. Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failure. You deserve compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

What to Expect During Opiate Withdrawal

Opiate withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6-12 hours of your last dose for short-acting opiates (oxycodone, hydrocodone, heroin) and 24-48 hours for long-acting opiates (methadone, extended-release formulations). The timeline and severity depend on several factors:

Which specific opiate you’ve been using
How much and how frequently you’ve been using
Your method of use (oral, snorting, injecting)
How long you’ve been dependent
Your overall physical and mental health
Whether you’re dependent on other substances (alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants)

While opiate withdrawal is not typically life-threatening on its own, it is extremely uncomfortable, often described as the worst flu you’ve ever experienced, multiplied several times over. Many people say the physical and emotional distress is so overwhelming that they cannot imagine getting through it without medical help.

The good news: With medical supervision and appropriate medication-assisted treatment, withdrawal symptoms can be reduced by 60-80%, making the process significantly more manageable.

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline

Early Withdrawal Phase (6-12 hours for short-acting; 24-48 hours for long-acting):

Anxiety and restlessness
Muscle aches and joint pain
Excessive yawning and tearing
Runny nose and watery eyes
Sweating and chills
Difficulty sleeping
Strong cravings for opiates

Peak Withdrawal Phase (24-72 hours):

This is typically the most difficult period. Symptoms intensify and may include:

Severe muscle and bone pain
Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
Diarrhea and abdominal cramping
Rapid heartbeat and elevated blood pressure
Dilated pupils and sensitivity to light
Goosebumps and “cold turkey” sensations
Profuse sweating
Severe anxiety, irritability, and agitation
Depression and feelings of hopelessness
Insomnia or severely disrupted sleep
Intense drug cravings

Stabilization Phase (4-10 days):

Physical symptoms begin to subside, though you may still experience:

Fatigue and low energy
Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog”
Mood swings and emotional sensitivity
Lingering muscle aches
Sleep disturbances
Continued but decreasing cravings

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (Weeks to Months):

After the acute physical symptoms resolve, many people experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Symptoms can include:

Depression and anxiety
Difficulty experiencing pleasure (anhedonia)
Sleep problems
Memory and concentration issues
Periodic cravings triggered by stress or environmental cues
Emotional numbness or mood swings

PAWS is a critical period that requires ongoing treatment and support. This is why detox alone is never sufficient, you need comprehensive treatment that addresses the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.

Visual Timeline Graphic

Phase 1: Early Symptoms (6-12 hrs) → Anxiety, muscle aches, cravings begin

Phase 2: Peak Intensity (1-3 days) → Most severe symptoms, highest discomfort

Phase 3: Stabilization (4-10 days) → Physical symptoms decrease gradually

Phase 4: Post-Acute (Weeks-Months) → Emotional healing, ongoing support essential

How Pathways Recovery Center Makes Opiate Detox Safer and More Comfortable

At Pathways Recovery Center, we understand that the fear of withdrawal often keeps people trapped in active addiction. Our medical opiate detox program is designed to minimize discomfort, ensure your safety, and set you up for long-term recovery success.

Step 1: Comprehensive Medical Intake & Assessment

When you arrive at our facility in Azusa, California, you’ll meet with our medical team for a thorough evaluation. This isn’t a judgmental interrogation; it’s a compassionate conversation designed to understand your unique situation so we can provide the best possible care.

We’ll assess:

Your opiate use history (which substances, how much, how often, method of use)
How long you’ve been using and any previous detox or treatment attempts
Current physical health conditions and medications
Mental health history (depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD)
Co-occurring substance use (alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants)
Family history of addiction or mental health conditions
Support system and living environment
Treatment goals and concerns

This comprehensive assessment allows us to create a personalized detox plan tailored to your specific medical, psychological, and personal needs. We never use a one-size-fits-all approach because no two people experience addiction the same way.

Step 2: 24/7 Medical Monitoring & Stabilization

Throughout your detox stay, licensed medical professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses with specialized training in addiction medicine, monitor you around the clock. We track vital signs, symptom severity, hydration status, and your overall comfort level, adjusting your care plan as needed in real time.

You’ll have access to:

Private or semi-private rooms designed for comfort, not sterile hospital-style accommodations
Nutritious meals and hydration support to help your body heal
A peaceful, homelike environment that promotes rest and relaxation
Compassionate staff who treat you with dignity, respect, and genuine care
Immediate medical intervention if any complications arise
24/7 availability of medical and support staff

Our goal is not just to keep you safe but to make you as comfortable as possible during a difficult process. You’ll never be left alone to “tough it out.”

Step 3: Evidence-Based Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

We use FDA-approved medications that are proven to significantly reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications work by interacting with the same opioid receptors in your brain as prescription opioids or heroin but in a controlled, therapeutic way. They don’t get you “high;” they help your brain and body stabilize so you can focus on healing.

Medication-Assisted Treatment is the gold standard for opiate detox. Research consistently shows that MAT:

Reduces withdrawal symptoms by 60-80%
Dramatically decreases cravings
Lowers relapse rates by 50% or more
Improves treatment retention
Reduces overdose risk
Allows you to engage meaningfully in therapy and counseling

We’ll explain every medication you receive, why we’re prescribing it, and any potential side effects. You’re always in control and can ask questions at any time.

Step 4: Transition Planning for Continued Care

Detox is just the first step in recovery. Research shows that people who only complete detox without ongoing treatment have relapse rates as high as 90% within the first year. This isn’t because you failed; it’s because addiction is a complex brain disorder that requires comprehensive treatment.

Before you complete the medical detox phase, we work with you to create a personalized transition plan to the next level of care. Most people benefit from:

Residential/Inpatient Treatment (30-90 days or longer)
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) (9-15 hours per week)
Outpatient Counseling (ongoing therapy and support)
Medication-Assisted Treatment continuation (buprenorphine or naltrexone for months or years)

Our admissions team will:

Explain your treatment options based on your needs and situation
Verify insurance coverage for continued care
Schedule intake for the next phase of treatment
Connect you with peer support resources and alumni programs
Provide family education and involvement opportunities

You don’t have to figure this out alone. From the moment you call us, we’ll be by your side guiding you through every step.

What Makes Pathways Recovery Center Different

Licensed Medical Professionals Specializing in Addiction Medicine

Our team includes board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and addiction counselors with extensive training in substance use disorder treatment. You’re in expert, compassionate hands.

Evidence-Based Medication Management

We follow protocols endorsed by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and use FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine, methadone, clonidine, and comfort medications to minimize withdrawal symptoms and support your recovery.

Comfortable, Homelike Environment

Our Azusa, California facility feels more like a peaceful retreat than a clinical hospital. Private rooms, comfortable common areas, nutritious meals, and a serene setting help you relax and focus on healing.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Every person’s journey is unique. We tailor every detox plan to your specific substance use history, medical needs, mental health concerns, and personal goals.

Compassionate, Judgment-Free Care

Addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. We treat every person with dignity, respect, and understanding. You’ll never be judged or shamed here.

Comprehensive Continuum of Care

We don’t just detox you and send you on your way. We provide a clear path forward with residential treatment, IOP, outpatient counseling, medication management, and lifelong alumni support.

Insurance Accepted & Financial Options

We accept most major insurance plans, including PHCS, Cigna, First Health, Humana, GEHA, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna. Our admissions team will verify your coverage and explain your benefits at no cost. We also offer payment plans for those without insurance.

Accreditations & Certifications:

LegitScript Certified (trusted provider verification)
DHCS Licensed (California Department of Health Care Services)
Joint Commission Accredited (gold standard for healthcare quality)

Medications That Make Withdrawal Manageable

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is not “replacing one drug with another.” It’s evidence-based medicine that allows your brain to heal while you work on the psychological and behavioral aspects of recovery. Here are the medications we use at Pathways Recovery Center:

Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex)

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it activates opioid receptors in the brain but produces a much weaker effect than prescription opioids or heroin. This relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings without causing euphoria or sedation.

How it works:

Binds to opioid receptors and blocks other opioids from attaching
Reduces withdrawal symptoms within 30-60 minutes of administration
Has a “ceiling effect” that prevents overdose even at higher doses
Can be continued long-term for maintenance therapy (months or years)

Forms: Sublingual film or tablet (dissolves under the tongue)

Buprenorphine is often combined with naloxone (Suboxone) to prevent misuse. When taken as prescribed (under the tongue), naloxone has no effect. If someone tries to inject it, naloxone triggers immediate withdrawal, discouraging misuse.

Important note: Starting buprenorphine too soon after your last opiate dose can trigger precipitated withdrawal, an extremely uncomfortable condition where withdrawal symptoms are suddenly intensified. Our medical team carefully times your first dose to avoid this (typically 12-24 hours after your last use, depending on which opiate you’ve been using).

Comfort Medications

We also provide medications to manage specific symptoms as they arise:

Anti-nausea medications (ondansetron, promethazine) for persistent nausea and vomiting
Anti-diarrheal medications (loperamide) for gastrointestinal distress
Sleep aids (trazodone, hydroxyzine) for insomnia and sleep disturbances
NSAIDs and muscle relaxants (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, cyclobenzaprine) for muscle aches and pain
Hydration and electrolyte replacement (IV fluids if needed) to prevent dehydration

All medications are prescribed by our licensed physicians and monitored closely by our nursing staff. We’ll explain every medication you receive, its purpose, and any potential side effects. You’re always in control and can ask questions or express concerns at any time.

Detox Is the Beginning, Not the End

Completing medical detox is a tremendous accomplishment and an important first step. But here’s the truth: detox alone is rarely enough to achieve lasting recovery. Studies show that people who only complete detox without ongoing treatment have relapse rates as high as 90% within the first year.

This isn’t a personal failure; it’s a reflection of how addiction works. Opiates change the brain’s reward system, decision-making processes, impulse control, and stress response. Detox removes the drugs from your body, but it doesn’t address:

The underlying causes of your substance use (trauma, mental health conditions, chronic pain, life stressors)
The behavioral patterns and triggers that led to and maintained your use
The coping skills you need to manage cravings, difficult emotions, and life challenges
The need to rebuild relationships and establish a strong support system
The brain healing that takes months to years as neural pathways reestablish themselves

This is why Pathways Recovery Center can help you with all stages of care:

Residential/Inpatient Treatment

After detox, most people benefit from residential treatment, where you live on-site for 30-90 days (or longer if needed) and participate in intensive therapy, group counseling, and skill-building activities. This structured, immersive environment removes you from triggers and old patterns, giving you time and space to focus entirely on healing.

Residential treatment includes:

Individual therapy (trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
Group therapy and peer support sessions
Family therapy and family education programs
Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
Life skills training and relapse prevention planning
Holistic therapies (mindfulness, meditation, art therapy, fitness, nutrition counseling)
Medication management (continuing buprenorphine, naltrexone, or psychiatric medications)

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

If you have strong family support, a stable living environment, and lower risk factors, or after completing residential treatment, IOP allows you to live at home while attending structured treatment several times per week.

IOP includes:

9-15 hours of structured treatment per week (typically 3-5 sessions)
Evening and weekend scheduling options to accommodate work, school, or family responsibilities
Continued individual and group therapy
Medication management and random drug testing for accountability
Relapse prevention planning and coping skills development
Alumni and peer support groups

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient counseling involves meeting with a therapist once or twice per week while living independently. This is typically the final phase of formal treatment and helps you maintain long-term recovery while transitioning back to normal life.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Continuation

If you started buprenorphine (Suboxone) or naltrexone during detox, you may continue these medications for months or even years. Research consistently shows that long-term MAT significantly reduces overdose deaths, improves quality of life, and supports sustained recovery.

This is not “trading one addiction for another.” Buprenorphine and naltrexone are prescribed medications that allow your brain to heal and stabilize while you work on the psychological, behavioral, and social aspects of recovery. Many people stay on these medications long-term, just as someone with diabetes takes insulin or someone with high blood pressure takes medication.

Alumni and Aftercare Programs

Recovery is a lifelong journey. Pathways offers alumni programs, support groups, sober events, and ongoing resources to help you stay connected and supported even after formal treatment ends. Our alumni community is one of our greatest strengths, many of our graduates stay connected for years, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs.

We’ll help you create a personalized continuing care plan that sets you up for long-term success. You don’t have to figure this out alone; we’ll be with you every step of the way.

How to Start Opiate Detox at Pathways Recovery Center

Taking the first step is often the hardest part. We’ve made the admissions process as simple, stress-free, and confidential as possible so you can focus on getting help, not navigating bureaucracy.

Step 1: Call Us 24/7 for Confidential Support

Our admissions team is available around the clock, 365 days a year, to answer your questions, discuss your situation confidentially, and explain what to expect. There’s never any pressure, judgment, or obligation; just compassionate guidance from people who genuinely care.

We understand that reaching out can feel overwhelming. You might be scared, ashamed, unsure, or desperate. Whatever you’re feeling, we’ve been there with thousands of people just like you, and we’ll meet you exactly where you are with kindness and respect.

Step 2: Free Insurance Verification

We accept most major insurance plans and will verify your coverage at no cost to you. Our team will explain:

What your insurance covers for detox and ongoing treatment
Your out-of-pocket costs (deductible, copays, coinsurance)
Payment options if you don’t have insurance or need additional financial assistance

Insurance plans we accept:

PHCS
Cigna
First Health
Humana
GEHA
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Aetna

Even if your plan isn’t listed, call us; we may still be able to help, and we can often work with out-of-network benefits.

Step 3: Confidential Assessment

We’ll conduct a brief, compassionate phone assessment to understand your needs and determine if our opiate detox program is the right fit for you. This conversation is completely confidential and HIPAA-compliant. We’ll never share your information without your permission.

Step 4: Admission (Often Same-Day)

In many cases, we can admit you the same day you call. We understand that once you’ve made the decision to get help, waiting can increase anxiety and risk relapse. We’ll coordinate transportation if needed and guide you through what to bring and what to expect when you arrive.

What to bring:

Photo ID and insurance card
List of current medications (including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements)
Comfortable clothing (casual, loose-fitting clothes for relaxing)
Toiletries and personal hygiene items
Any legal or custody documents if applicable
An open mind and a willingness to heal

What NOT to bring:

Drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia
Weapons of any kind
Excessive valuables or large amounts of cash
Anything that could be used for self-harm

You can start your recovery today. Don’t wait for withdrawal to worsen, for things to “get worse,” or for “the right time.” The right time is now. You deserve help, and we’re here to provide it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opiate Detox

How long does opiate detox take?

The acute physical withdrawal phase typically lasts 5-10 days, with symptoms peaking around days 1-3 for short-acting opiates (oxycodone, hydrocodone, heroin) and days 3-5 for long-acting opiates (methadone, extended-release formulations). However, every person is different. Some people feel significantly better after 5-7 days, while others may need 10-14 days in medical detox to fully stabilize. Our team will never rush you; you’ll stay in detox as long as medically necessary to ensure your safety and comfort.

Is opiate withdrawal dangerous?

Opiate withdrawal itself is rarely life-threatening, but it can lead to serious complications like severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, elevated blood pressure, and suicidal thoughts. The greatest danger is relapse after tolerance has dropped, which dramatically increases overdose risk. Medical supervision ensures any complications are addressed immediately and you have the support you need to complete detox safely.

How bad will withdrawal symptoms be?

With medical supervision and appropriate medication-assisted treatment (buprenorphine, methadone, clonidine, comfort medications), withdrawal symptoms can be reduced by 60-80%. You’ll likely still experience some discomfort, fatigue, anxiety, muscle aches, but it will be far more manageable than detoxing alone. Our goal is to keep you as comfortable as possible while safely removing opiates from your system.

What medications will I receive?

Most people receive buprenorphine (Suboxone) or methadone to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. We also provide clonidine for anxiety, blood pressure, and restlessness, as well as anti-nausea medications, sleep aids, pain relievers, and hydration support as needed. All medications are prescribed by our licensed physicians, monitored by our nursing staff, and explained to you before administration. You can always ask questions or express concerns about any medication.

Can I detox from opiates at home?

We strongly advise against it. Home detox has extremely high failure rates (80-90% relapse within the first week), and you risk serious medical complications, severe psychological distress, and fatal overdose upon relapse when tolerance has dropped. Medical detox gives you the best chance at a safe, successful start to recovery. Why suffer through withdrawal alone when compassionate, professional help is available?

Will I have to stop buprenorphine (Suboxone) right away?

No. Buprenorphine is an evidence-based medication that can be continued long-term if it helps you maintain recovery. Many people stay on buprenorphine for months or years while they work on therapy, rebuild their lives, and strengthen their recovery. Stopping too soon dramatically increases relapse risk. Our medical team will work with you to determine the best timeline for tapering (if you choose to taper at all) based on your progress, stability, and personal goals.

I’ve tried detox before and relapsed. Will this time be different?

Relapse is not failure; it’s a common and often expected part of the recovery process. Many people need multiple attempts before achieving sustained recovery, and each attempt provides valuable learning. Our program is designed for people at all stages of recovery, including those who’ve relapsed multiple times. We’ll work with you to identify what didn’t work in the past, address underlying issues (trauma, mental health conditions, lack of support), and build a stronger, more comprehensive plan this time.

How much does opiate detox cost?

Costs vary depending on your insurance coverage, length of stay, and specific medical needs. Many insurance plans cover 60-100% of detox costs. Our admissions team will verify your benefits and provide a clear, transparent breakdown of any out-of-pocket expenses before you arrive. We also offer payment plans and financial assistance options for those without insurance. Don’t let cost concerns stop you from getting help; call us and we’ll figure out a way to make it work.

Can I bring my cell phone?

Policies vary, but in most cases you’ll have limited access to your phone during detox to help you focus on healing without distractions from the outside world. We’ll discuss communication policies during admissions. Emergency calls to family are always permitted, and we encourage family involvement in your recovery process.

What if I’m dependent on other substances too (alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants)?

We frequently treat people with polysubstance dependence. Our medical team is experienced in managing complex detox cases involving multiple substances. We’ll create a comprehensive detox plan that safely addresses all substances you’re dependent on. In some cases (particularly with alcohol and benzodiazepines), this may extend your detox stay slightly, but we’ll never compromise your safety to speed up the process.

What if I use heroin or pills that might be mixed with fentanyl?

This is extremely common. Most street heroin and counterfeit pills now contain fentanyl or other synthetic opioids. During your intake assessment, we’ll discuss your substance use honestly and openly (no judgment), and our medical team will adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Fentanyl withdrawal can be more challenging due to its potency and pharmacological properties, but our team has extensive experience managing fentanyl detox safely.

What happens if I relapse after leaving detox?

First, know that you can always come back. We never give up on anyone. If you relapse after leaving detox, call us immediately. We’ll help you get back on track, whether that means returning to detox, adjusting your treatment plan, or connecting you with additional support resources. Recovery is not a straight line; setbacks happen, and they don’t erase the progress you’ve made.

Medical Detox vs. Quitting “Cold Turkey” at Home

Factor	Medical Detox at Pathways	Quitting at Home (“Cold Turkey”)
Safety	24/7 medical monitoring, immediate intervention for complications	High risk of dehydration, dangerous electrolyte imbalances, no emergency response
Comfort	Medications reduce symptoms by 60-80%, manageable discomfort	Severe pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, psychological distress; often unbearable
Success Rate	70-80% complete detox, 50%+ transition to treatment	80-90% relapse within first week
Overdose Risk	Supervised environment, no access to drugs, continued MAT support	Extremely high; relapse with lowered tolerance is often fatal
Medical Care	Licensed physicians, nurses, addiction specialists available 24/7	None; you’re completely alone
Mental Health Support	Counselors and therapists address anxiety, depression, trauma	No professional support, high risk of psychological crisis
Transition Plan	Seamless move to residential, IOP, or outpatient care with clear path forward	No follow-up plan, no guidance, easy to fall back into old patterns
Medication Access	FDA-approved medications (buprenorphine, methadone, clonidine, comfort meds)	No access to medications that ease withdrawal
Cost	Often covered 60-100% by insurance, payment plans available	“Free” but extremely high cost in suffering, health risks, and near-certain relapse

The bottom line: Medical detox gives you the best chance at a safe, successful start to recovery. Why suffer alone when compassionate, professional help is available and often covered by insurance?

You Don’t Have to Suffer Through Withdrawal Alone

Opiate addiction is not a character flaw, a lack of willpower, or a moral failing. It’s a medical condition that changes the brain, and like any medical condition, it deserves professional treatment.

If you’re reading this page, you’ve already shown incredible courage and strength by considering getting help. That’s the hardest part. Now let us take care of the rest.

At Pathways Recovery Center in Azusa, California, we provide safe, compassionate medical opiate detox with 24/7 supervision, evidence-based medication-assisted treatment, and a clear path to lasting recovery. We accept most major insurance plans, and we can often admit you the same day you call.

Whether your struggle started with a prescription after surgery or has been going on for years, whether you’ve tried to quit once or a hundred times, whether you’re using pills, heroin, or both, we’re here for you without judgment or shame.

You deserve to live a life free from the grip of opiate dependence. You deserve compassionate care, professional support, and a real chance at recovery. You deserve hope.

Your recovery starts with a single phone call.

Take the First Step Today

Don’t wait another day living in active addiction, fearing withdrawal, or feeling hopeless. Thousands of people just like you have walked through our doors and found freedom from opiate dependence. You can too.

Call Pathways Recovery Center now. We’re here 24/7, and we’re ready to help.

Medical Opiate Detox Program