PHASE ONE - DETOX

Detox (detoxification) is the process by which traces of alcohol and drugs are eliminated from the body, while simultaneously managing withdrawal symptoms. Even though detox is very beneficial towards making a full recovery, it is not a treatment by itself.

But Why Is Detox Necessary?

The consistent use of alcohol and some other drugs renders your body dependent on these substances. As such, the abrupt quitting of some of these substances often leads to the withdrawal syndrome which might prove to be fatal in some cases.

How does a detox program help?

• Easing the discomfort of withdrawal
• Helping control any medical complications that may arise
• Offers the patient the smoothest path towards recovery during the difficult period following the quitting of alcohol or drugs.

A detox program is able to control the symptoms that follow the discontinuation of drug and/or alcohol use as well as lowering the temptation of relapsing so as to no longer go through with the painful withdrawal.

How safe is a detox program?

Detoxification is a process that can be life-threatening or dangerous. And due to the severity of risks that are associated with the program, it is imperative that you consult professional services for your treatment.

Which are some of the drugs that require detox?

A lot of substances need the detoxification process to be medically supervised ‘with no exceptions.’ Abrupt withdrawal from these drugs may result in seizures or convulsions and other life-threatening conditions.

The drugs include:

• Alcohol
• Benzodiazepines – such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan
• Barbiturates
• Non-benzodiazepine sedative hypnotics – such as Lunesta and Ambien

What is strongly recommended for detox?

• Opiates such as heroin
• Stimulants such s methamphetamine, cocaine, and prescription medicine such as Ritalin and Adderall
• Prescription opioids such as oxycodone and hydrocodone

Withdrawing from the above drugs does not necessarily call for an E.R visit. However, their withdrawal syndromes are accompanied by extremely unpleasant effects that may cause the individual to relapse.

Going ‘Cold Turkey’

Attempting to quit by going cold turkey (without seeking medical help) can be hazardous and may cause life-threatening complications especially for those going through acute alcohol, benzodiazepine, or barbiturate withdrawal.

The risks of going cold turkey include:

• An increased likelihood of relapsing
• An uncomfortable withdrawal
• The risk of overdosing after a relapse due to the body’s now reduced tolerance towards the drug
• Death as a result of uncontrolled seizures or convulsions

What is the Detox Process like?

This procedure is carried out in three steps: evaluation, stabilization, and transitioning to treatment.

Evaluation

During this step, the ones providing you with treatment will gather critical information about you to know how to plan your treatment process. This includes:

• Screening for other conditions
• Blood tests
• Social situation assessment
• Medical and physiological comprehensive assessment
• Risk assessment to check for the severity of withdrawal.

Stabilization

These are the psychosocial and medical processes involved in helping you traverse the acute intoxication and withdrawal journey. This step involves:

• Medication to help with the withdrawal symptoms
• Proper nutrition and diet
• Knowing what to expect during treatment and recovery
• Involving your family and friends when it is appropriate

Transitioning into Treatment

This step shall involve preparing you for the substance abuse treatment. Here, your care providers shall encourage you to go through with the treatment program and the subsequent aftercare. Many detox programs guide you through this stage and into their treatment program or even recommend some of the programs that you can attend.

Alternative Detox Treatments

Many alcohol and drugs detox programs typically use pharmaceutically controlled drug detox. However, there are holistic and alternative programs which also incorporate contemporary therapies such as:

• Acupuncture
• Meditation and Yoga
• Biofeedback
• Proper nutrition
• Creative arts therapies
• Exercise

How long does the detox program take?

The detox duration varies greatly and is reliant upon multiple factors such as the substance, length of time the drug was abused, and the dosage. Nevertheless, most detox programs take anywhere between a few days and a few weeks.

What Happens After the Detox Program?

It is highly recommended that a patient enters treatment immediately following the detox program. Most detox centers will provide you with the necessary resources and information to help you make the transition into treatment. Treatment after detox can either be inpatient or outpatient.

Coastal Treatment Center is a drug and substance abuse treatment center located in Florida. We offer our treatment solutions to employees battling with substance addiction in the workplace. Our aim is to see you get your addiction in control in less than 30 days. With a team of highly-skilled and dedicated staff, we aim to serve you and get you back in shape in no time. Visit us here to learn more about us.