What’s the Best Way to Quit Opioids? Comparing Detox, Tapering, and MAT

Quitting opioids is one of the biggest, most life-changing decisions you can make—but it’s also one of the hardest. Many people start with good intentions, only to find themselves stuck in the cycle of withdrawal, cravings, and relapse.

If you’re ready to stop using opioids, you may be wondering: What’s the best way to quit? Should you go cold turkey, slowly taper off, or use medication-assisted treatment (MAT) like Suboxone or methadone?

The answer depends on your health, history of opioid use, and support system. This guide compares the most common quitting methods, their pros and cons, and how to choose the safest, most effective approach for long-term recovery.

Option 1: Quitting Cold Turkey – Is It Safe?

Cold turkey means stopping opioid use suddenly without medical assistance. Many people try this approach because they want to quit fast and avoid using medications. But is it safe?

Pros of Cold Turkey

• The fastest way to detox – No tapering, no prolonged withdrawal.
• No additional medications needed – Some people prefer to quit without using Suboxone or methadone.
• May work for mild opioid dependence – If you’ve been taking opioids for a short time, quitting suddenly may be manageable.

Cons of Cold Turkey

• Severe withdrawal symptoms – Opioid withdrawal can cause extreme nausea, body aches, insomnia, anxiety, and cravings.
• High risk of relapse – The intensity of withdrawal drives many people to use again.
• Can be dangerous – In some cases, withdrawal can lead to dehydration, heart complications, or even overdose if relapse occurs.

Example: A person who has been using high-dose opioids for years tries to quit cold turkey. By day two, they are vomiting, unable to sleep, and experiencing intense cravings. By day four, they relapse to stop the suffering—leading to a higher risk of overdose due to decreased tolerance.

Best for:

• People with mild opioid dependence (short-term use of prescription opioids).
• Those who have a strong support system and medical supervision.
• People who can handle severe withdrawal symptoms without relapsing.

Method 2: Tapering Off Opioids—A Gradual Approach

What It Means: Slowly reducing your opioid dose over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Tapering allows your body to adjust gradually as opioid levels decrease, making withdrawal less intense. A doctor can create a tapering schedule to help you quit safely.

Pros of Tapering

• Less intense withdrawal symptoms than cold turkey
• Lower relapse risk because symptoms are more manageable
• You can customize drug tapering to fit your needs

Cons of Tapering

• Takes longer (weeks to months, depending on the taper speed)
• Requires strict discipline—some people struggle to follow the taper schedule
• May still experience mild withdrawal symptoms over time

Example: Sarah was taking 100mg of oxycodone daily for years. Her doctor set up a taper plan, reducing her dose by 10% each week. While she had some discomfort, it was manageable, and she successfully quit without extreme withdrawal.

Best For:

• People who want to quit without extreme withdrawal
• Those who are disciplined and can follow a plan
• Individuals with a doctor to monitor the process

Method 3: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Suboxone or Methadone

What It Means: Using Suboxone (buprenorphine-naloxone) or methadone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while quitting opioids.

MAT is scientifically proven to be the most effective method for long-term opioid recovery. It works by stabilizing brain chemistry, preventing intense cravings, and allowing people to rebuild their lives without the rollercoaster of withdrawal and relapse.

Pros of MAT (Suboxone or Methadone)

• Greatly reduces withdrawal symptoms
• Lowers cravings and relapse risk
• Allows people to function normally while quitting
• Most effective long-term solution for opioid addiction

Cons of MAT

• Requires a doctor’s prescription
• Some people stay on medication long-term, which some see as a downside
• Potential stigma around medication-assisted treatment

Example: Let’s say a patient struggled with heroin addiction for years. Every time he tried quitting, he relapsed within a week. He started Suboxone treatment, which stopped his cravings and withdrawals. Over time, he stabilized, got a job, and eventually tapered off Suboxone completely.

Best For:

• People with severe opioid addiction
• Those who have relapsed multiple times
• Individuals who need a long-term solution with medical support

Which Method Is Most Effective for Quitting Opioids?

Studies show that Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Suboxone or methadone is the most effective option for long-term recovery.

How QuickMD Can Help You Quit Opioids Safely

If you’re ready to quit opioids but don’t know where to start, QuickMD makes it easier.

QuickMD offers:

• Online Suboxone treatment – Talk to a certified doctor from home.
• Same-day prescriptions – Get medication sent to your pharmacy immediately.
• Affordable care – No insurance? No problem. QuickMD offers low-cost telemedicine visits.
• Confidential support – No waiting rooms, no judgment—just expert help.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to quitting opioids, but the key is choosing the safest and most effective method for you.

• Cold turkey works for some but has a high relapse risk.
• Tapering is a good option for those who want to reduce withdrawal gradually.
• Suboxone and methadone offer the best long-term success, especially for those who have struggled with relapse.

If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid dependence, remember that help is available. The first step is reaching out. Don’t let the fear or stigma of addiction prevent you from seeking the support you need.

Book an appointment with QuickMD today and start your recovery.