Acute Treatment Services (Detox)

SIDE-EFFECTS OF DETOX

During the first few days of detox, drugs or alcohol will be eliminated from the patient’s system. This can be the most challenging part of addiction recovery. There will be physiological reactions that occur as the body adjusts to the changes, and the process can be unpleasant and distressing.

Symptoms may vary depending on the substance used, as well as how long the person has been addicted.
Possible side-effects can include:

• Nausea and Stomach pain
• Anxiety and Depression
• Heart Palpitations
• Seizures
• Sweating

WHAT HAPPENS DURING DETOX?

Medical detox is among the first steps involved in overcoming addiction. Individuals who abuse drugs or alcohol often develop a physical dependence on them that can lead to withdrawal symptoms when the substance is eliminated from their system. Upon entering a treatment program, patients will go through several steps before admission.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

Depending on the drug used, and the length of addiction, symptoms can range from mild through to extreme. Alcohol withdrawal can be a life-threatening condition, particularly when someone who has been drinking heavily suddenly stops.

Since many symptoms can be severe, patients are advised against attempting detox at home. Our Clinical Stabilization Services provide supervised inpatient treatment. Healthcare specialists monitor the patient’s heart rate, temperature, respiration, and fluid levels to lower the risk of an adverse reaction.

Patients with high blood pressure, for instance, may pose a significant health risk. Doctors can also prescribe additional medication for further relief of symptoms if necessary and adjust doses according to each person’s requirements.

HOW LONG DOES DETOX LAST

While Psyclarity Health’s Acute Treatment Services strive to offer an expeditious solution to drug addiction, the duration of detox can vary depending on the individual.

COMMON MEDICATIONS USED IN DRUG DETOX

Some people may manage to beat their addiction without medical intervention. However, for many, particularly those with a long history of substance abuse, or those addicted to opiates, the physical symptoms can be too intense. For example, heroin withdrawal has significantly stronger side-effects than cocaine withdrawal, which some may say is largely psychological. Withdrawal from opioids also carries higher risks.

Medications used for withdrawal from heroin and prescription painkillers include:

• Methadone: A form of opiate that binds to the same receptors in the brain as heroin, but doesn’t produce the same high. It suppresses cravings and withdrawal symptoms, however, it is used with care.

• Buprenorphine (Suboxone): Working in a similar manner to methadone, it has a lower risk of addiction, so is less stringently managed.

Detox from other drugs – as well as opiates – may be treated with the following medications:

• Benzodiazepines: The sedative effect of benzodiazepines is useful in managing anxiety and emotional instability, which are common during withdrawal. However, this medication is potentially addictive itself, so is prescribed with caution.

• Clonidine: This medication manages physical side-effects such as seizures and trembling, as well as cramps, muscle pain, and sweating. It is also effective in managing anxiety.

COMMON MEDICATIONS USED IN ALCOHOL DETOX

Long-term, regular alcohol abuse can pose a challenge when it comes to withdrawal, since it may require treatment plans that last from weeks to months.
PAWS, or Prolonged Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, occurs when a person’s body requires time to recover from the ravages of alcohol.

Alcohol detox medication includes:

• Lorazepam (Ativan)

• Chlordiazepoxide HCl (Librium)

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER DETOX?

After successfully completing detox, a person may begin their journey toward mental wellness. They will enter a program of psychotherapy and counseling that will help them understand the reasons they developed an addiction and develop new ways of managing problematic behavior. CBT has been found to be particularly effective in addiction recovery and provides the psychological skill sets necessary for long-term recovery.

After leaving the center, ongoing treatment will vary according to personal needs. Most specialists will recommend continued counseling and group therapy to create solid support networks. Family members may also enter counseling programs to assist in helping their loved one transition back to a healthy life. To learn more about our Acute Treatment Services and how our treatment program works, get in touch with us today.