Opioid Tapering and How Caregivers Can Protect Their Health

Opioid tapering is often necessary after long-term use of these powerful pain medicines. The process can be physically and emotionally demanding, not just for the person in recovery but for those who support them. Knowing what to expect and how to care for your loved one and yourself is essential.

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One member of MyOpioidRecoveryTeam asked, “Has anyone experienced opioid tapering? We have just started this journey (not fun by all means) because our pain doctor is required to.”

Another added, “It’s frustrating from a caregiver’s perspective watching your family loved one go through withdrawal symptoms. … It’s gonna be a long journey this year. Especially since the family member has been on opioid medication for eight to 10 years under a doctor’s care.”

In this article, we explain what opioid tapering is, what caregivers can expect, and how to care for yourself while supporting a loved one through this challenging process.

What Is Opioid Tapering?

Opioid tapering is the process of gradually reducing the dose of an opioid medication over time, rather than stopping it abruptly. This slow, steady approach gives the body time to adjust and can help reduce or even prevent opioid withdrawal symptoms.

When someone has been taking an opioid like oxycodone or methadone for more than seven to 10 days, stopping suddenly can trigger intense and sometimes dangerous side effects. These may include increased pain, mood changes or irritability, thoughts of self-harm, rapid heartbeat, changes in blood pressure, and more.

Creating a safe and effective tapering plan with a healthcare provider is essential. Some people may need only a few weeks to taper, while others may require several months. The timeline depends on factors such as the opioid dosage and type, how long it’s been used, and the individual’s overall health. A healthcare provider can help manage withdrawal symptoms and recommend new strategies for pain management. If needed, they can also provide referrals to mental health professionals or substance use disorder specialists for additional support.

Tapering isn’t only for people with opioid use disorder (OUD). It may also be necessary for those prescribed high-dose opioids for chronic pain or for pain management after surgery or other medical procedures. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe for you or a loved one to reduce or stop an opioid medication, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you understand your options and develop a safe and personalized tapering plan, whether it’s for a prescription opioid or not.

How To Support a Loved One Through Opioid Tapering

As your loved one navigates the physical and emotional challenges of opioid tapering, you may find yourself under significant stress, too. Caregivers often take on a heavy emotional burden. Knowing what to expect and how to respond can help you feel more prepared and empowered.

Learn About the Tapering Process

Understand how tapering works and what withdrawal symptoms might look like. This can help you respond with empathy and understanding as your loved one’s body adjusts to lower doses of opioids. Ask their healthcare provider to explain the tapering plan, expected timeline, and possible side effects so you can support the process.

Help Them Stay on Track

The opioid tapering process sometimes includes non-opioid medications to help manage short-term withdrawal symptoms like issues with sleep, mood, and appetite. If your loved one is open to it, participate in decision-making conversations with their care providers, especially when they’re talking about short-term medications. One way to help your loved one stay on track is to know what medications they’re on and when they need to take them.

Be Patient With Mood and Behavior Changes

Prescription drug withdrawal can bring on mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Try not to take these behaviors personally. Instead, offer a calm, nonjudgmental presence, and encourage your loved one to talk about what and how they’re feeling. However, if you ever feel unsafe, leave the situation immediately.

Encourage Healthy Coping Tools

Your loved one may need to develop new, healthy coping skills as they adjust to daily life without the use of opioids. You can help by offering suggestions and inviting them to join you for certain activities.

Here are some ideas:

• Encourage them to eat healthy meals on a consistent schedule.
• Remind them to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Ask them to join you in doing deep-breathing exercises or meditation.
• Encourage them to get moderate physical activity, like walking or yoga.

If you make suggestions and they don’t respond, offer gentle follow-up and encouragement so they feel supported but not pressured. If you’re worried about their mental health, suggest an appointment with their primary care provider or a therapist.

Help Reduce Triggers

Part of supporting your loved one through the effects of opioid tapering might involve helping them avoid situations that increase the risks of opioid overdose or relapse. This can include steering clear of certain people, places, or routines. Work together to identify potential triggers and explore ways to help reduce or manage them.

While you can’t control the outcome of your loved one’s tapering process, your presence and encouragement can make a meaningful difference. As you work toward a successful taper together, remember to take care of yourself, too.

Self-Care for Caregivers

When you’re caring for someone you love, it’s easy to put your own needs last. But your health, well-being, and quality of life matter. Here are some meaningful ways to care for yourself while supporting a loved one:

• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Stay connected with friends and family.
• Establish a consistent sleep routine.
• Set and maintain healthy boundaries.
• Find an activity you enjoy and make time for it weekly.
• Join a caregiver support group or find other ways to connect with people who understand what you’re going through.
• Talk to a therapist or counselor for guidance and emotional support.
• Find ways to express your feelings, whether through journaling, art, or other outlets.
• Keep up with your own health needs by scheduling appointments with your healthcare providers.
• Be kind to yourself by leaning on others for support or taking regular breaks.

Supporting someone who has an opioid dependence is emotionally demanding work, and caring for your loved one should not come at the cost of your own well-being. Make time for rest, emotional support, and activities that nourish you, whether that’s talking to a friend, getting outdoors, or going to therapy.

Join the Conversation

On MyOpioidRecoveryTeam, people share their experiences with opioid use disorder, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Do you have tips on supporting a loved one through opioid tapering? Let others know in the comments below.