Detox is usually required where there has been persistent substance use and dependence. The detox process can present a number of health risks, unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, and physiological cravings that increase the risk of complications and relapse.
Drugs Requiring Medical Detox
Due to the number of health risks associated with detox, medical professionals generally do not advise attempting detox alone, a process known as a home detox.
It can be dangerous to suddenly stop taking certain drugs without tapering off and seeking medical intervention. This is particularly prevalent with alcohol detox, opioid detox, and Benzodiazepine detox.
Withdrawal symptoms and risks detoxing from these substances include:
- Depression & Suicidal Ideation
- Delirium Tremens
- Seizures
- Panic attacks
- Relapse
- Hallucinations
- Digestive distress
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Medical complications, especially if the person has other health issues like breathing or heart problems
It is strongly advised by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to seek professional intervention, especially if the person has been using substances persistently, to ensure they overcome risks of home detox.
“For alcohol, sedative-hypnotic, and opioid withdrawal syndromes, hospitalization or some form of 24-hour medical care is generally the preferred setting for detoxification, based upon the principles of safety and humanitarian concerns.”
Medical detox centers are a crucial aspect of the recovery process. They ensure that the person is treated safely, which reduces the risk of complications that might arise from the detox process. According to SAMHSA, almost 80 percent of professional detoxification treatments use medication to ease withdrawal symptoms.
The medical detox process has three stages:
- Evaluation
- Stabilization
- Fostering patient readiness for entry into treatment
At Gallus Medical Detox, we believe there is dignity in healing. There’s no better time to seek help for you or your loved ones addiction. Call us today and take the best, first step towards recovery: 888-306-3122.