When to Go to the ER (And When Not To)
Opioid withdrawal is rarely medically dangerous, but a few warning signs absolutely warrant emergency care. Know which.
This is a short article on purpose. Opioid withdrawal, on its own, is rarely medically dangerous in the way alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal can be. Most people can be managed safely at home with clinical support. There are, however, situations where the emergency room is the right answer.
Go to the ER if you cannot keep any fluids down for more than 24 hours, if you have signs of severe dehydration (dizziness on standing, very dark urine, confusion), if you have chest pain or trouble breathing, if you have a fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C), or if you have any thoughts of harming yourself. Bring a list of your medications and your taper schedule if you have one.
Do not be embarrassed. ER physicians see opioid withdrawal regularly and are not there to judge you. They are there to keep you alive and stable so the rest of recovery has a chance to happen.