Detox is a critical step in the addiction recovery process. It comes before rehab and therapy, and is required to initially rid the body of drugs and alcohol. Detox should always be done under medical supervision, and should never be attempted on one’s own. Unsafe detox practices could result in rapid relapse or overdose. Not having the support of medical professionals makes it hard to manage impulses and cravings.
The Value of Detox
Substance use disorder is not a matter of personal choice. Despite awareness of harmful side effects and health risks, individuals struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol often continue to use. This condition alters both behavior and brain structure, leading to profound changes in how people think and act. If left unaddressed, substance use disorders can result in lasting damage.
Medically supervised detoxification is a crucial first step in any addiction recovery journey. It provides a controlled and safe setting where individuals can cease drug and alcohol use. By doing so, it prepares them for the next stages of treatment without having to endure the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.
The path to recovery is challenging. Medical detox offers patients the support of doctors, nurse practitioners, and clinicians, who work to make the process as comfortable as possible during this critical phase. Clinicians closely monitor for any potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, ensuring patient safety.
Medications Used During Detox
There are five key substances that typically require a detox process: alcohol, heroin, opioids, benzodiazepines, and fentanyl. Each substance demands a tailored treatment approach.
For alcohol detox, commonly prescribed medications include:
- Ativan
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
- Acamprosate
For opioid addiction, medications may include:
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
In the case of fentanyl detox, approved medications are:
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Clonidine
Similar to other opioids, heroin detox often involves:
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
For benzodiazepine detox, medications often include:
- Anticonvulsants
- GABA receptor agonists
- Low-dose alternative benzodiazepines
Since everyone reacts differently to various medications, each client works closely with their medical team to monitor progress and adjust treatments. These medications play a vital role in keeping clients safe and comfortable as their bodies clear out toxins.
Who Needs Detox?
Detoxification is necessary for most individuals recovering from drugs or alcohol. The recovery process requires both patience and persistence. Medical detox ensures that people in recovery do not have to endure painful or even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. It is a particularly vulnerable time, and medical oversight offers peace of mind to both clients and their families.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or seeking addiction treatment, don’t let fear stand in the way. Taking that first step to begin treatment can be difficult, but it has the power to change your life for the better. Detox is the gateway to a healthier, brighter future.
What Comes After Detox
After detox is complete, clients will move into residential rehab programs. This is incredibly important for sustainable sobriety. After detox, individuals are at their most vulnerable. The ability to avoid relapsing and triggers is not fully ingrained into the mind and body. Residential rehabilitation provides clients with 24/7 medical supervision, giving the support needed to stay strong and avoid relapse.
Once clients graduate from residential rehabilitation they will move into either intensive outpatient treatment or a partial hospitalization program.
Find a Detox and Addiction Treatment Center Near You
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder or addiction, early intervention is the best way to ensure positive outcomes. Not all detox and addiction treatment centers are created equally. If you’re unsure where to find the right program, give Solution Based Treatment a call. We’re dedicated to helping you find the right program for your needs and financial situation. Whether this is your first time in detox and rehab or you’ve recently experienced relapse and want to try again – we’re ready to help. Give our admissions team a call today and learn more about a brighter future.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.