What Is Medical Detox?
The goal of the process of medical detox is to rid the body of drugs and alcohol safely and effectively, while also managing any withdrawal symptoms that may occur. Medical detox typically takes place in an inpatient setting, such as a medical detox center, where patients are closely monitored by a team of medical professionals. This team will typically include addiction specialists, nurses, counselors, and doctors who are all experienced in helping people through the detox process. The first step of medical detox is usually to assess the patient and develop a plan for their care. This plan will take into account any medical conditions the patient has, as well as any psychological factors that may be at play. Once the plan is in place, the patient will begin to detox by going through a series of treatments. These treatments will vary depending on the facility, but they often include things like IV therapy, nutritional support, and medication management. The goal of these treatments is to help the patient through the withdrawal process as safely and effectively as possible. Depending on the substance from which they are detoxing, there may be specific medications that the patient will take to address the withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some common medications include:- Benzodiazepines – a sedative which helps ease alcohol withdrawals
- Antidepressants – medication to reduce depression which often happens during detox
- Clonidine – reduces sweating, cramps, muscle aches, and anxiety
- Methadone – used for moderate to severe Opiate addiction
