Drug and Alcohol Detoxification
Detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be both painful and dangerous.
In fact, choosing to detox “cold turkey” or without medical supervision can lead to serious medical problems like seizures and severe dehydration. Severe addiction can result in death from intoxication. The withdrawal can result in seizures, delirium tremens and painful death. Tremors are the precursor of those conditions. So do not take tremors lightly thinking that a drink will control them every time.
Medication assisted detox can reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety.
At The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling we have outpatient detox programs to help prevent dangerous complications. Our outpatient detox includes compassionate and professional support to safely manage side effects and withdrawal symptoms.
What is detoxification?
Detoxification, or detox, is the process of allowing the body rid itself of drugs such as opioids, cocaine and methamphetamines, or alcohol. The type of drug and how long it was used will affect an individual’s detox experience.
The length of time detoxification takes depends on a number of factors, including:
- Type of substance (Cocaine, opioids, methamphetamines, alcohol, etc.)
- Duration of substance use disorder, or addiction
- The stage of addiction
- Method of abuse (such as swallowing, snorting, smoking, or injecting)
- The volume of the substance taken
- Family history and genetic makeup
- Co-occurring medical condition
- Any co-occurring mental health conditions
The process of detoxification
At The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling, we recognize that detoxification needs are personal. Our customized detoxification treatment plan involves three steps:
- detoxification Evaluation
The first step of drug or alcohol detoxification is a comprehensive evaluation. Our professional medical team screens for any physical and mental health issues. Blood testing at our onsite lab is used to precisely measure any chemicals such as cocaine, opioids, methamphetamines, and/or alcohol in the body. This aids our doctor in determining type and levels of medication assistance needed.
During the evaluation, our team also carefully reviews any drug, medical and/or psychiatric records. This data is then used to create a personalized detoxification treatment plan.
- Stabilization
After the detoxification treatment plan is developed, the next step is inpatient stabilization using both medical and psychological therapies. The objective of stabilization is to prevent harm as opioids, cocaine and methamphetamines or alcohol leave the body. Our doctor can prescribe addiction treatment medications as needed, to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
- Rehabilitation
The final step of our detoxification program is rehabilitation. Our team works with the individual to create a long-term strategy for recovery. For the best chance of success after detoxification, the treatment plan includes detailed discharge plan and follow up. Partnerships with carefully-vetted rehabilitation centers have been developed to help make the transition from inpatient detox to community living successful.
Side effects during detoxification
Drug or alcohol detoxification is a process that can be both painful and dangerous. Inpatient detox with medical supervision is vital, because it provides a comfortable and safe environment.
Although medically assisted detoxification can help alleviate some the symptoms of withdrawal, others are unavoidable. The more common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Body discomfort
- Mood swings
- Anxiety / Nervousness
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
Life after detoxification
Detoxification from drugs or alcohol is only the first part of addiction treatment. Detox on its own may be insufficient for a successful long-term recovery. Often there is an underlying psychological component of the addiction. The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling offers counseling, psychoeducation and support groups in addition to our inpatient rehab program. We have also cultivated collaborative partnerships within the community for ongoing rehabilitation.
Call (281) 383-9366 to speak to a specialist about taking the first step toward regaining a life without drugs or alcohol dependence.
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