Our heroin treatment center provides medical detoxification, treatment programs, and comprehensive therapy that addresses the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of opioid addiction. We’re here to help you take the first step toward recovery in a safe, supportive environment.
What is Heroin?
Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive opioid drug derived from morphine, a substance that occurs naturally in the opium poppy plant. It usually appears as a white or brown powder or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.”
Due to its potency and rapid effect on the brain’s reward system, heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous substances. People use heroin by injecting, snorting, or smoking it, leading to an intense feeling of euphoria and relaxation. However, this “rush” is short-lived and quickly followed by drowsiness, confusion, and slowed breathing.
The Opioid Epidemic and Heroin Use in Tennessee
The opioid crisis continues to be one of the most pressing public health issues in the United States, and Tennessee remains among the hardest-hit states. What began as widespread misuse of prescription painkillers has evolved into an epidemic of heroin and fentanyl addiction that affects individuals, families, and entire communities.
Across the United States, opioid-related deaths have reached historic levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2025), opioids are involved in roughly 70% of all overdose deaths each year. In 2023 alone, approximately 81,000 Americans lost their lives to opioid overdoses, about 10% of which involved heroin.
While pure heroin use has declined slightly in recent years, it has been largely replaced by fentanyl-laced heroin, a far more potent and deadly combination. This shift has made overdose risk significantly higher, even among experienced users.
Tennessee continues to experience some of the highest opioid overdose rates in the nation. Data from the Tennessee Department of Health (2025) reveals that opioids were involved in more than 3,000 overdose deaths in 2024, representing a continued upward trend. Shelby County, where Memphis is located, has consistently reported some of the highest rates of opioid-related fatalities in the state.
Many people who become addicted to heroin begin by misusing prescription opioids such as oxycodone or hydrocodone. When prescriptions become difficult to obtain or too expensive, individuals often turn to heroin because it is a cheaper and more accessible alternative, but also far more dangerous when mixed with fentanyl, increasing the risk of overdose. Nearly 80% of opioid overdose deaths in Tennessee involve fentanyl or heroin mixed with fentanyl (often unknowingly consumed by users).
The opioid epidemic has impacted every corner of Tennessee. Families are losing loved ones, communities are struggling to respond, and individuals battling heroin addiction face enormous barriers to recovery.
Memphis Detox is committed to being part of the solution. By providing medical detoxification, residential treatment, therapy, and compassionate support, our team helps individuals safely withdraw from heroin and opioids, manage cravings, and begin the path toward long-term recovery.
Why is Heroin So Addictive?
Heroin binds to opioid receptors in the brain, releasing a surge of dopamine that produces intense feelings of pleasure and relief from pain. This reinforces the desire to use the drug again, as the brain learns that it will provide these “good” feelings. Over time, the brain adjusts to these surges of dopamine and reduces its natural dopamine production.
As tolerance develops, people need larger amounts of heroin to achieve the same high. This eventually leads to withdrawal symptoms once use stops. This powerful cycle of dependence and withdrawal is what makes heroin addiction so difficult to overcome without professional support.
Signs and Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction early can be life-saving. Heroin’s powerful effects on the brain and body make it one of the most addictive drugs, and dependence can develop even after just a few uses.
- Sudden changes in mood or personality
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Unexplained financial problems or borrowing money frequently
- Secretive behavior or lying about whereabouts
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Constricted (“pinpoint”) pupils
- Drowsiness or falling asleep suddenly
- Slurred speech and slowed movements
- Track marks or bruising from injections
- Itching, flushed skin, or frequent nosebleeds (from snorting)
- Sudden weight loss
- Poor personal hygiene
- Intense cravings for heroin
- Anxiety, irritability, or restlessness
- Depression or feelings of hopelessness
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Paranoia or mood swings
If you or someone you care about is showing the following symptoms, it may be time to seek professional help.
Short-Term Effects of Heroin Use
Short-term heroin use produces intense euphoria but also poses serious health risks. Common effects include:
- A warm, euphoric “rush”
- Slowed breathing and heart rate
- Nausea, vomiting, and dry mouth
- Drowsiness and mental fog
- Itching and flushed skin
Even using heroin once can cause respiratory failure. Respiratory depression, a common side effect, can quickly lead to overdose, coma, or death, especially when heroin is combined with other central nervous system depressants (such as alcohol or benzodiazepines).
Long-Term Effects of Heroin Abuse
Long-term heroin use can cause lasting harm to both the body and mind, including:
- Collapsed veins and infections from injections
- Liver and kidney disease
- Lung complications (including pneumonia)
- Digestive issues and chronic constipation
- Hormonal imbalances and infertility
- Depression, anxiety, and memory loss
- Increased risk of HIV and hepatitis C
Heroin addiction doesn’t just affect the body; it impacts every aspect of life. Relationships, careers, and mental well-being often deteriorate as addiction deepens. But with the right help, recovery is possible.
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone dependent on heroin stops using it, the body reacts. Withdrawal symptoms can be physically painful and emotionally overwhelming. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Chills, sweating, and goosebumps
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Anxiety and irritability
- Intense cravings
Withdrawal can begin within hours of the last dose and typically peaks within 2 to 3 days. While rarely life-threatening, symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and emotionally taxing. Medically-assisted detox provides physical and emotional support to help clients manage withdrawal safely.
Heroin Addiction Treatment at Memphis Detox
At Memphis Detox, we offer a continuum of care designed to support clients at every stage of recovery. Our heroin addiction treatment programs combine medical detox with evidence-based therapy and holistic healing, ensuring a safe and comprehensive recovery process.
The first step in overcoming heroin addiction is detoxification. Our medical detox program at Memphis Detox provides 24-hour supervision and monitoring by experienced medical staff who ensure your safety and comfort throughout the withdrawal process.
During medication-assisted treatment (MAT), a combination of medication and addiction therapy helps to ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent complications. During detox, clients are supported not just physically but emotionally, preparing them for the next stage of treatment.
After detox, individuals can transition into our residential rehab program, where they will receive structured, 24/7 support in a healing environment. Treatment may include:
- Individual therapy to explore the root causes of addiction.
- Group therapy for peer support and shared healing.
- Family therapy to repair relationships and build communication.
- Holistic therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, or fitness to help restore balance and wellness.
Our goal is to help clients rebuild their lives, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and establish a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Heroin Treatment Center FAQs
Detox typically lasts 5 to 7 days, though the timeline varies based on individual health, substance use history, and co-occurring conditions. Some may experience lingering withdrawal symptoms due to a condition known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Our team helps manage withdrawal symptoms over time through continued care and support.
During detox, clients receive 24/7 medical monitoring to ensure safety and comfort. Medications may be used to ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent long-term medical complications. Emotional and therapeutic support are provided to prepare clients for ongoing treatment.
After detox, individuals transition to our residential rehab program to participate in therapy and structured recovery activities. This phase addresses the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction, helping clients build healthy coping mechanisms and prevent relapse.
Detoxing from heroin at home is not recommended. The physical discomfort and emotional distress of withdrawal can be overwhelming, and the risk of relapse is high. At Memphis Detox, medical professionals help to safely manage symptoms and provide continuous support throughout the process.
Yes. We may use medication-assisted treatment (MAT) during detox and beyond to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Common medications include buprenorphine or Suboxone. But all prescriptions are based on individual needs and are always combined with therapy and counseling.
Signs of heroin addiction include increasing tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, secrecy, neglect of responsibilities, or failed attempts to stop. If you recognize these signs, our admissions team can guide you toward an appropriate level of care.
Absolutely. Memphis Detox maintains complete confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and all applicable privacy laws. Your personal information and participation in treatment are always protected.
Yes. We offer family therapy and education to help loved ones understand addiction, learn healthy communication skills, and build supportive relationships that strengthen recovery.
Relapse doesn’t mean failure; it’s an opportunity to learn and adjust your recovery plan. At Memphis Detox, we identify triggers that led to relapse and help clients build stronger relapse prevention strategies through therapy, education, and aftercare planning.
Most major insurance providers cover detox and residential treatment for heroin addiction. Our staff can verify your insurance benefits quickly and explain your options. We also provide flexible pay arrangements for those without coverage.
Break Free From Heroin Addiction at Memphis Detox
Take the first step toward recovery today. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery.
