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Drugs Requiring Medical Detox

Written by Laura Herrmann, MA | Updated on Oct 5, 2023

Medically reviewed by Dr. Patrick J. Gallus, DO

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.

drugs requiring medical detox list

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:

  1. Evaluation
  2. Stabilization
  3. 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.

Laura Herrmann, MA

Laura is the Chief Outreach and Marketing Officer at Gallus Medical Detox, she has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare marketing field in digital, social, product marketing, strategy and sales leadership. Her passion for those struggling and recovering from substance use disorder and mental health as well as advocacy for patient empowerment has driven her career and continues to be the motivation to work within the best treatment options to help those struggling. With a Master’s Degree from Tufts School of Medicine and Emerson College in Health Communication, Laura has continued to find excitement and challenge in her chosen field. She is also the Board President, BarZero and Board Member of the Colorado Professional Liaison Association.

Last medically reviewed on August 13, 2020

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If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, call Gallus at
(888) 306-3122.