Opiate dependence even after short term use is can develop especially if a person uses a lot of opiates or even uses opiates occasionally over a long period of time.
Less than one-fifth of incarcerated offenders struggling with substance abuse receive drug rehab while incarcerated (not including participation in self-help or drug education).
One treatment approach that is used for managing opiate withdrawal is to treat the symptoms of the withdrawal with appropriate medication. Clondine, an antihypertensive drug, is sometimes used to reduce muscle pain and cramping.
Long-term use of anti-depressants brings about an unique set of withdrawal symptoms when discontinued; much different than the repeated use of an opioid, such as heroin.