Detox or detoxification is the process of ridding the body of any drugs or alcohol that a person has consumed. The purpose of detoxing is to safely help an individual get through and manage any withdrawal symptoms when someone stops taking substances. The detox experience can be different for everyone. The type of drug or alcohol, how much, and for how long has a lot to do with the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. Other factors that can affect the detox process include abuse, any underlying medical conditions, and family history. 
The Side Effects of Detox
The side effects of detox can be an extremely difficult, dangerous, and painful process. This is why it’s best to enter a medically supervised treatment facility where you can be monitored and treated 24/7. With medical detox, you are in a safe environment, and any symptoms can be treated under the supervision of a doctor. Some of the most common and general side effects of detox can include nausea, vomiting, anxiety, depression, nervousness, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, body aches and pains, and mood swings.
How Long Does Detox Take?
Detox can last for different lengths of time depending on several factors. The number one factor is the type of drug or alcohol. Alcohol typically takes about a week; however, heavy drinkers could take a little longer. Alcohol is a dangerous substance to try to detox off of alone. It can even be fatal. The same goes for benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepine detox can sometimes take 2 weeks or longer. Benzos is another dangerous substance to try to detox off of alone. In an inpatient rehab facility, medications can be given for both alcohol and benzodiazepine detox along with other substances, to help with the symptoms. Opioid detox can last a week or longer, and a person can suffer from post-acute withdrawal symptoms for weeks to months after. However, with opioids, some medications can be prescribed, medication-assisted treatment, which can significantly reduce the withdrawal symptoms and help with cravings. Detox has come a long way over the years, and research continues to find the most effective treatments for different substances.
The Three Steps of Detox Process
The detox process usually involves three steps. As we’ve already discussed, everyone is different; however, it involves three steps in most cases.
- Evaluation – The first step is the evaluation. This step goes over the patient’s drug and alcohol history along with any physical or mental health issues. Sometimes a blood test may be done to determine the number of drugs in the system, so the appropriate amount of medication can be given during detox. A full review of medical, psychiatric, and drug histories will be done to form a long-term treatment plan.
- Stabilization – The second step is stabilization. During this phase, the patient receives medical and psychological treatment to stabilize them. At this point, medication-assisted treatment medications may be prescribed to help further the patient become stable.
- Prepare To Enter Treatment – The last step of the process is to prepare to enter treatment. Once detox has been completed, it’s time to start therapy, education about the disease of addiction, and the support group/system process. Inpatient rehab is often recommended as the next best step; however, outpatient treatment can also be very helpful and offer success in recovery.
Detox is the first part of the recovery process. It can be an intense thing to go through, but it’s a necessary part of recovery. You can do it! Working with a treatment provider to formulate a good, individualized plan for you is the best way to start and get you on the road to long-lasting sobriety.
Evoke Wellness Provides Various Addiction Treatment Program
Evoke Wellness treats addiction at its core so that you can recover. We assist men, women, and families throughout the United States struggling with substance abuse and searching for addiction treatment. Getting sober isn’t easy. It may be one of the most challenging and bravest things you will ever do, but we can help you. Our goal is to get you on the road to a long-lasting recovery. So you don’t have to suffer any longer. Call us today.
