What is Detox All About?

February 19, 2007 at 10:15 am · Filed under About Drug Addiction

Detoxification is a process whereby individuals are systematically withdrawn from addicting drugs in an inpatient or outpatient setting, typically under the care of a physician. Detoxification or detox is sometimes called a distinct addiction treatment modality but is more appropriately considered a precursor of addiction treatment, because it is designed to treat the acute physiological effects of stopping drug use. Medications are available for detoxification from opiates, nicotine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, barbiturates, and other sedatives. In some cases, particularly for the last three types of drugs, detoxification may be a medical necessity, and untreated withdrawal may be medically dangerous or even fatal.

Detoxification is not designed to address the psychological, social, and behavioral problems, associated with drug addiction and therefore does not typically produce lasting behavioral changes necessary for recovery. Detoxification is most useful when it incorporates formal processes of assessment and referral to subsequent drug addiction treatment. 

 

Some people think there is a difference between a drug detox program and an alcohol detox program. The truth is aside from the actual substance, there is no difference in the actual detox services provided. It is important to ask questions regarding any detox program you choose. Educate yourself on;

Is the detox program located within the drug rehab itself?  It should be.

Is the detox program licensed and accredited?  It should be.

What are the credentials of the entire staff working in the detox program?  They should be masters level and above with nurses being RN’s

For additional information on drug detox programs or alcohol detox programs go to www.recoveryconnection.org.  or call 1-800-99-DETOX.

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