Addiction Treatment
Heroin Rehab in Los Angeles
Heroin addiction is one of the most challenging — and most treatable — conditions we see. With the right medical support and therapeutic care, lasting recovery is absolutely possible.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Eric Chegouri, MD, Medical Director · Last updated August 14, 2026
Understanding Heroin Addiction
Heroin is a highly addictive opioid that binds to the brain's mu-opioid receptors, producing intense euphoria followed by profound sedation. Physical dependence can develop after just a few uses. Once dependent, stopping without medical support is excruciating — and dangerous.
The heroin epidemic in Southern California has touched every community. We treat people from all walks of life — and we do so with compassion, expertise, and zero judgment.
Signs of Heroin Addiction
- Track marks, abscesses, or collapsed veins (if injecting)
- Nodding off or extreme drowsiness
- Constricted pupils
- Sudden financial problems or stealing
- Social withdrawal and secretiveness
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using (sweating, vomiting, muscle aches)
Heroin Detox: What to Expect
Heroin withdrawal begins within 6–12 hours of the last use and peaks at 48–72 hours. Symptoms include intense muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, and overwhelming cravings. While not typically fatal, it is one of the most uncomfortable withdrawal experiences without medical support.
Our medical team uses evidence-based protocols including Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone), clonidine, and comfort medications to dramatically reduce withdrawal severity. You'll be monitored around the clock in a private, comfortable suite.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT — using medications like buprenorphine or naltrexone alongside therapy — has the strongest evidence base for treating heroin and opioid use disorder. We offer MAT as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. MAT is not "trading one drug for another" — it's evidence-based medicine that saves lives.
Heroin addiction is a medical condition, not a character flaw. We treat it as such — with science, compassion, and without judgment.
FAQs
Heroin Treatment Questions
While rarely fatal on its own, heroin withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable and often leads to relapse — which can result in fatal overdose due to lost tolerance. Medical detox is essential.
Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is an FDA-approved medication that reduces cravings and withdrawal. We offer MAT as part of individualized treatment plans.
Acute withdrawal is typically 5–7 days. Some symptoms (cravings, sleep disturbances) can persist for weeks — which is why residential treatment follows detox.
Call 911 immediately. If you have Narcan (naloxone), use it. Once stabilized, call us to discuss treatment options.
Yes. Most PPO plans cover the full continuum of care for heroin use disorder. We verify benefits in 15–30 minutes.