Drug Detox
Addiction is formed when the body develops a physical dependence on a substance. A person will have to take more and more of the substance in order to achieve pain relief or the high they seek. When the body and brain rely on the chemicals produced by the substance, the brain will overcompensate in the absence of the drug, and painful withdrawal symptoms then occur.
During detoxification, the body is cleansed of the chemical toxins that have built up as a result of drug or alcohol use. Detoxification is the management of physical withdrawal symptoms and is most safely undertaken in medically supervised detox programs.
The drug detox process usually involves three steps. During evaluation, the patient will receive blood tests to determine the amount of toxins in their system. During this pre-screening process, doctors will also review the person’s medical and psychiatric history so they can create a long-term treatment plan.
During the stabilization stage, the patient experiences withdrawal and the medical staff ensures that the patient is as safe and comfortable as possible. The length of this period will vary depending on what substance the patient was addicted to and the severity of that addiction.
The third stage prepares the patient to transition into the rest of the treatment program. A detox center will provide the patient with support, structure, and behavioral counseling that will prepare the patient to fend off the temptation to relapse and learn to live life without the substance.
Medications Used for Detox
In cases of severe addiction, medications may be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms. These can include:
- Antidepressants
- Benzodiazepines
- Opioid antagonists
- Non-opioid agonists
When a person attempts to detox alone, they do not have access to these medications. Drug detox programs allow the patient to be kept comfortable and monitored for complications. Some substances cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms that no one should attempt to manage alone.
Where Can I Find Detox Centers Near Me?
If you are searching for detox centers that will fit your needs, it can be difficult to know what questions to ask, where to look, and what programs will fit you. BetterAddictionCare is here to help. Contact our client care specialists to get help locating a drug rehab center near you. We will help you develop a personalized plan for recovery that will meet your specific needs and offer the best chance for a successful long-term recovery. Start healing when you call today or fill out our contact form.
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