More commonly known as detox, detoxification is the first step of the addiction treatment process. It allows the body to flush out toxins, which are remnants of drugs and alcohol, while safely managing the withdrawal symptoms.
A NIDA study found that detox, while not sufficient to treat addiction, is a crucial first step towards recovery. Detox is different for everyone, mainly due to the duration and drugs used.
In this post, we address common questions about drug and alcohol detox and discuss what you can expect during this process.
What is Detoxification?
If you have been using drugs and alcohol for some time, your body may have developed a substance dependence. Your brain always has a “need” for drugs, which makes it hard to resist substances. This is where drug detox comes in – it helps you break free from the effects of cravings and withdrawal. Drug and alcohol detox is supervised by a qualified addiction treatment professional. The process includes constant monitoring and bed rest and sometimes prescribed medication. As a medically supervised withdrawal, detoxification serves three main purposes;1. Curbs the effects of withdrawal
The life-threatening effects of withdrawal make it difficult to quit an addiction. Supervision during the withdrawal period ensures that you are as safe and comfortable as possible.2. Reduces dependence on substances
Patients may receive antagonist or partial agonist drugs during the withdrawal period. This lowers the threshold of your dependence on drugs while countering the effects of abused substances.3. Proper preparation for treatment
Therapy, habit-changing interventions, and support groups will hardly be effective if your body isn’t physically ready for them. During detox, patients receive healthy meals, plenty of rest, and a clear head in preparation for upcoming treatment.What is the Process of Drug and Alcohol Detox?
While the detox and recovery process may be different for everyone, here is a general idea of how it works.Evaluation
Admitting you need help doesn’t automatically mean you’ll go through detox. A medical assessment helps addiction treatment professionals determine if you need a detox. It usually involves filling forms, blood tests, physical exams, and screening for mental conditions. The doctor uses the information collected at this stage to formulate a treatment plan.Stabilization
Depending on your case, your physician will utilize medical and psychological therapy to prevent any form of harm. The doctor may prescribe medication to manage withdrawal symptoms. Stabilization usually lasts one to three weeks depending on the severity and type of addiction.Preparation
The next step after stabilization is preparing you for additional treatment. The doctor familiarizes you with the treatment process and what to expect. You’ll be presented with multiple treatment options, all of which are designed to address the addiction from its roots.What are the Side Effects of Detox?
The process of drug and alcohol detox can prove painful and downright dangerous, which is why medical supervision is important. It provides a safe and comfortable environment for patients to detox in. Even though medical detox limits the symptoms of withdrawal, some cannot be avoided. Some of the most common side effects of detox include:- Nervousness
- Nausea
- Mood swings
- Difficulty breathing
- Insomnia
- Body discomfort
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Poor sleep
What Medications are Used for Detox?
This is an extreme area of concern, especially for those who are susceptible to prescription medicine. Most addiction treatment centers take a personalized approach to detox, which takes into account your medical history for best results. Depending on the type of substance abused, your doctor may prescribe the following:Benzodiazepines
It is the drug of choice for treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Due to its high potential for abuse, benzos are used sparingly and only in inpatient facilities.Anticonvulsants
They are used to prevent seizures or reduce the risk of seizures. They are commonly used for those detoxing from benzos and alcohol.Antidepressants
They are commonly prescribed to patients with co-occurring mental illnesses. It’s also used to counter mood swings during cocaine detox.Methadone
It’s used to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings during opioid detox. It is addictive and as such, its use is highly regulated.How Long Does Detox Take?
The duration of detox is different for everyone depending on factors like:- Substance abused
- Duration of addiction
- Health conditions
- Age
- Weight
- Family history