Heroin and other opiates act as a depressant that impairs coordination, judgment, self-control, and causes a variety of physical abnormalities. Common signs of a user include euphoric-type behavior, a dazed look, needle scars, excessive nodding and itchy skin. The effects usually wear off in three to four hours. Opiate withdrawal is probably one of the most misunderstood areas of drug abuse because of frequent sensationalism in the movies. Even at its worst, heroin withdrawal is not as dangerous or as terrifying as withdrawal from barbiturates or alcohol.
Alcohol withdrawal can be fatal, but heroin or opiate withdrawal is almost never fatal.
Often, withdrawal symptoms result in addicts becoming convinced of their need for treatment. The first stage of opiate withdrawal is restlessness and agitation. Profuse and violent yawning follow, along with restlessness. Then come chills, occasional hot flashes, and short jerky breathing. Drowsiness and deep sleep follow for up to twelve hours.