Category: Detox

Posted on

FAQs: Detoxing From Substance Use

Detox is one of the first steps in recovery from a substance use disorder. During this process, you’ll stop using the substances in question and allow them to leave your system. Depending on the severity of your addiction, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.

The experience of detox is almost always uncomfortable. And in some cases, it can even be physically risky. It’s important to undergo this process with proper supervision. For some patients, that means receiving highly specialized medical treatment. Others may be able to detox in a less formal setting. But no matter where you begin healing, you’ll likely go through a similar process of withdrawal.

What Happens During Detox?
How Long Does Detox Last?
When is Detox Required?

What Types of Detox Treatment are Available?
Detox in a Hospital Settings
Medical Detox Centers
Residential Rehabs
Detoxing At Home
How Much Does Detox Cost?

What Happens During Detox?

When you first stop using a substance, you’ll go through withdrawal. ((Kelly, J. F., Saitz, R., & Wakeman, S. (2016). Language, substance use disorders, and policy: The need to reach consensus on an “addiction-ary.” Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly, 34(1), 116–123. https://doi.org/10.1080/07347324.2016.1113103)) This is a series of “physical, cognitive, and affective symptoms that occur after chronic use of a drug is reduced abruptly or stopped among individuals who have developed tolerance to a drug.”

The exact symptoms of withdrawal vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to which substance(s) you were using, the amount you used on a daily basis, and your overall physical health. During detox, ((» detox. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.recoveryanswers.org/resource/alcohol-and-drug-detox/)) you may experience anxiety, depression, hallucinations, tremors, changes in blood pressure, gastrointestinal symptoms, insomnia, and irritability.

How Long Does Detox Last?

Fortunately, these symptoms last only a few days for most patients. On average, detox lasts for 3 to 7 days. The timeline is longer for certain drugs. For example, it can take up to 14 days for withdrawal symptoms from opiates and benzodiazepines to peak.

Many patients, especially those recovering from opiate misuse, progress through 3 basic stages of withdrawal. ((Information, N. C. for B., Pike, U. S. N. L. of M. 8600 R., MD, B., & Usa, 20894. (2006). 4 physical detoxification services for withdrawal from specific substances. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64116/)) First, during early withdrawal, in which you begin to experience intense cravings and physical symptoms. This is often followed by peak withdrawal, with stronger symptoms, and then late withdrawal, in which symptoms should become more manageable.

Although the timeline is usually short, many patients experience severe physical and emotional symptoms during detox and withdrawal. It’s highly recommended that all substance users seek out supervised detox—and for some patients, this supervision is absolutely necessary. If you’re planning to stop using alcohol, opiates, or benzodiazepines, detoxing without medical care can be life-threatening.

When is Detox Required?

Medical detox is absolutely necessary for some patients. Before you decide on a specific course of treatment—and before you discontinue substance use—it’s best to get a medical evaluation. Your primary care doctor should be able to connect you with a qualified professional who can help. Alternatively, some rehab facilities can conduct over-the-phone detox evaluations during your initial call.

These assessments help quantify the risks associated with withdrawal, given your specific health history. But if you have a history of using certain substances, it’s very likely that your doctor will recommend medical detox.

Alcohol

After prolonged and/or heavy alcohol use, you can expect to go through severe withdrawal symptoms. ((Alcohol withdrawal. (2019, April 22). Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/alcohol-withdrawal-a-to-z)) These symptoms include insomnia, anxiety, and a serious condition called delirium tremens.

Delirium tremens (DT) can be debilitating and even fatal without proper medical care. This condition “typically begins 24 hours or longer following acute cessation of alcohol and is a life-threatening form of alcohol withdrawal ((» detox. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.recoveryanswers.org/resource/alcohol-and-drug-detox/)) involving sudden & severe changes in the mental and nervous system. These changes can cause severe mental confusion and hallucinations.” DT is often associated with other risk factors, including electrolyte imbalance and head injury.

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, your medical team can prescribe certain medications to help manage alcohol withdrawal. ((Grover, S., & Ghosh, A. (2018). Delirium tremens: Assessment and management. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology, 8(4), 460–470. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jceh.2018.04.012)) While benzodiazepines may be helpful, these medications must be taken under close supervision, because they also have the potential to be addictive.

Benzodiazepines

Medications like Valium and Xanax are commonly prescribed for anxiety. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Although they are highly effective for their intended uses, these medications must be prescribed with caution because [benzodiazepines] can be addictive.” ((https://plus.google.com/+NIDANIH. (2012, April 19). Well-known mechanism underlies benzodiazepines’ addictive properties. https://archives.drugabuse.gov/news-events/nida-notes/2012/04/well-known-mechanism-underlies-benzodiazepines-addictive-properties))

For patients who misuse or overuse them, benzodiazepine withdrawal ((Pétursson, H. (1994). The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 89(11), 1455–1459. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb03743.x)) is associated with severe and possibly fatal side effects. During detox, patients with a physiological dependence on these drugs may experience “sleep disturbance, irritability, increased tension and anxiety, panic attacks, hand tremor, sweating, difficulty in concentration, dry retching and nausea, some weight loss, palpitations, headache, muscular pain and stiffness and a host of perceptual changes…seizures and psychotic reactions.” It is absolutely vital that these patients receive medical care during the detox process. In order to manage your withdrawal from benzodiazepines, ((Information, N. C. for B., Pike, U. S. N. L. of M. 8600 R., MD, B., & Usa, 20894. (2009). Withdrawal management. World Health Organization. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/)) your doctors will help you slowly taper down your usage. In some cases, they will also prescribe additional medications to help alleviate some of your symptoms.

Opiates

In the U.S., we are currently experiencing an opioid crisis. ((Division (DCD), D. C. (2018, May 8). Opioid crisis statistics [Text]. HHS.Gov. https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/about-the-epidemic/opioid-crisis-statistics/index.html)) Abuse of these drugs, which may be prescribed or illicit substances, is extremely common. Some of the more commonly misused opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, methadone, fentanyl, and heroin.

Since they’re often prescribed for physical pain, it can be especially difficult to distinguish between addiction and proper use of these drugs. If you have a prescription for painkillers, it’s extremely important to take them only as directed, and to stay in close communication with your medical team and your personal support network about your relationship with opiates.

Opiate withdrawal can be lethal ((Yes, people can die from opiate withdrawal | NDARC – National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/blog/yes-people-can-die-opiate-withdrawal)) in the short term, partly due to potentially severe gastrointestinal side effects. And in the long term, former opiate users may be at risk of developing post-acute withdrawal syndrome ((Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (Paws) | semel institute for neuroscience and human behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved March 25, 2022, from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) (PAWS). With this condition, patients may experience irritability, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety, and an increased sensitivity to stress.

After stopping narcotic use, most people progress through three clearly defined stages of opioid withdrawal, ((Opioid withdrawal timeline: Symptoms, stages, recovery, and more. (2021, March 31). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/opioid-withdrawal-timeline)) as follows:

  • Early Stage: Symptoms begin at the expected time of the first missed dose. Patients may experience cravings, anxiety, an intense preoccupation with opioid use, and flu-like physical symptoms.
  • Peak Stage: Starting 1-2 days after the cessation of drug use, cravings reach their highest intensity. During this stage, you may also exhibit more severe gastrointestinal symptoms (such as nausea and vomiting), increased heart rate and blood pressure, sweating, and insomnia.
  • Late Stage: In most cases, these symptoms will begin to decrease within 7 days of your last dose. Physical withdrawal symptoms disappear, and psychological symptoms decrease.

At every stage of this process, it’s common—and often necessary—for doctors to prescribe nonaddictive medications, intended to alleviate your most severe symptoms. You may even be prescribed other narcotics, such as methadone. ((Methadone. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/methadone)) These prescriptions should only be taken as directed, under the close supervision of a medical team.

What Types of Detox Treatment are Available?

Depending on which substances you’re detoxing from, you may be eligible for various types of treatment. In most cases, though, detox programs provide some combination of psychotherapy, non-addictive prescriptions, and medical monitoring. If you have any co-occurring medical conditions, or you’re detoxing from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opiates, inpatient detox is highly recommended.

Detox in a Hospital Setting

In a hospital environment, your providers will likely focus on managing the physical symptoms of withdrawal. You can expect 24-hour care, with a team of doctors and nurses monitoring your vital signs. This setting is ideal for patients with additional diagnoses, and especially chronic illnesses. Because substance misuse may have an impact on your use of other prescriptions, it’s important to get medical support during this transitional period.

Hospitals may or may not be able to provide the same level of psychological care as other facilities. If you have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis, one of the following detox settings might be a better fit.

Medical Detox Centers

Some treatment centers focus entirely on medical detox. These centers provide similar services to both rehabs and hospitals. You’ll be monitored by a team of doctors and nurses, and also have regular sessions with a psychotherapist. You may also work with other healing professionals, such as a nutritionist or even a massage therapist.

Most medical detox programs last for 1-2 weeks. Some also require that patients make plans for longer-term care before entering treatment. For example, you may need to enroll in a residential rehab program that will begin as soon as you complete detox. Other medical detox centers may help patients plan for aftercare during their stay.

Residential Rehab

Some residential rehabs allow patients to detox on-site. If you’d like to go through detox and longer-term treatment at the same facility, talk to your admissions team to learn more about your options.

Inpatient detox is absolutely necessary for some patients, and is highly recommended for most. However, it’s not accessible for everyone. Fortunately, you can still begin recovery while living at home.

Detoxing at Home

At-home detox may be appropriate for some clients. You can consider this option if you have a strong personal support network, you’re exhibiting only mild withdrawal symptoms. It’s also essential that you make a plan to obtain emergency medical care if your symptoms worsen.

No matter where you plan to detox, make sure you consult with a doctor before you discontinue substance use. Even if you decide to go through withdrawal at home, with little professional support, their advice can help you plan for your own safety. Detoxing at home is almost never safe for patients recovering from alcohol, benzodiazepine, or opioid misuse.

If this option is appropriate for you, there are some noteworthy benefits to outpatient detox. ((Hayashida, M. (1998). An overview of outpatient and inpatient detoxification. Alcohol Health and Research World, 22(1), 44–46. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761814/)) Specifically, you may “​​retain greater freedom, continue to work and maintain day-to-day activities with fewer disruptions, and incur fewer treatment costs” compared to those who receive inpatient treatment.

How Much Does Detox Cost?

The cost of detox varies widely from one facility to another and is influenced by factors like facility type and the level of clinical care you receive. Detoxing from certain substances involves more intensive clinical services, which plays into final costs.

Low-cost detox programs are available. They’re usually offered at state-funded rehabs and some may even be free, though you’ll have to meet certain criteria to be eligible for most of these. In general, outpatient detox programs are more affordable than inpatient programs. On the low end, a private outpatient detox program can start at $250 per day.

A 30-day program at a private rehab center can cost less than $10,000 to over $75,000. In comparison to outpatient detox programs, these centers often offer additional therapeutic services on top of around-the-clock care during the initial stages of detox.

Many facilities accept insurance, including Medicaid. Make sure you check with your insurance provider, and your treatment provider’s admissions team, to see what portion of your costs can be covered by insurance.

What Happens After I Detox?

Recovery is a lifelong process, and detox is just the first step. It’s important to set realistic expectations, and understand that completing detox doesn’t mean you’ll be “fixed.”

After detox, many patients benefit from entering a longer-term treatment program. There are numerous ways to approach this. For example, you might attend residential rehab, or you might start an intensive outpatient program (IOP). Some patients join support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous ((Have a problem with alcohol? There is a solution. | Alcoholics Anonymous. (n.d.). Retrieved March 25, 2022, from https://www.aa.org/)) or SMART Recovery. ((Self-Help Addiction Recovery Program. | Smart Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.smartrecovery.org/))

These long-term groups and programs serve many purposes. For example, they might help you improve your physical and mental health, or heal your interpersonal relationships. But even with the right support, you’ll continue to face challenges. It’s normal to have cravings long after you successfully complete detox. Effective treatment doesn’t take away your triggers; instead, it helps you navigate them in a healthy way.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward recovery, you can browse medical detox centers here.

Reviewed by Rajnandini Rathod

Posted on

Holistic Detox in California

Detoxing from substance misuse can be challenging and even dangerous. To do so successfully, most people need professional care. And because recovery looks different for everyone, that care might include medical treatment, talk therapy, or holistic healing. You can find all of these modalities at detox centers in California.

The Golden State is known for its natural beauty, amazing weather, and focus on holistic health. Many California rehabs also cater to elite clients. Both detox and long-term recovery programs in this area can offer support to meet your unique needs.

Recovery Begins With Detox

Alcohol and drug detox1 is the process of interrupting the physical or psychological dependence on substances. It will almost certainly be physically uncomfortable, and it may also have greater risks. Detoxing from certain substances, like alcohol and opiates, can be dangerous without proper medical supervision.

As you progress through the various stages of detox, you may experience symptoms such as anxiety, difficulty sleeping, tremors, and intensified cravings. Because of these concerns, it’s best to begin this process in a detox facility with trained staff on hand. Many private residential treatment centers employ medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and talk therapists. This team of experts is there to keep you safe and comfortable throughout the process.

During inpatient detox, you may have access to several therapeutic modalities. For example, you may be prescribed non-addictive medications to help alleviate symptoms of withdrawal. You might also speak with a talk therapist, or even connect with fellow clients. Gratitude Lodge, for example, has a strong focus on community care. According to their team,

“Detoxification can be the most difficult part of early recovery, which is why we offer personalized care, group therapy support and an encouraging environment.”2

Many rehabs offset the discomfort of detox with extremely comfortable surroundings. You will likely have a private room, a TV, and even access to wifi while in detox. Some programs actively encourage clients to stay in touch with friends and family during their stay, getting support from loved ones at every stage of healing.

Who Is a Candidate for Detox?

Anyone ready to stop misusing substances is a candidate for detox. No matter which substance you’ve been using, whether you have a physical dependence on it, or how severe your substance use disorder is, detox can be a helpful place to start. That being said, it’s not necessary for everyone. Some clients may be able to safely detox without close medical supervision, depending on their specific history of substance use.

There are many different ways to approach detox, and some of them can be inappropriate or even unsafe for certain clients. When you’re ready to begin this process, start by learning more about the various programs available.

Medical Detox for Physical Dependence

Certain substances are more likely to cause physical dependence,3 which occurs “when a person requires one or more drugs to function. Abruptly stopping the substance may cause physical symptoms of withdrawal.” If you’re physically dependent on a substance, it’s extremely important that you stop using it under close medical supervision.

Detoxing from alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines can be especially dangerous to attempt on your own. If you struggle with any of these substances, it’s best to begin recovery by consulting with a medical professional. Depending on your specific health history, you may be given certain medications to help with detox.4 It’s absolutely vital that these medications be prescribed by an expert who is well-acquainted with your health history.

Because withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines can have such challenging side effects, some programs focus on helping clients heal from using these specific substances. AToN Center, in San Diego, is one such detox center. They offer a 3-to-1 ratio of staff to clients,5 ensuring that every resident gets the attention they need and deserve. After detox, clients may decide to enter their longer inpatient program, which treats a greater diversity of conditions.

aton center
Located in San Diego, AToN Center’s residential grounds are designed to promote comfort throughout the detox and recovery process.

It’s important to remember that detox, like the rest of recovery, is an extremely personal process. Although you may be temporarily focused on your physical symptoms, you can also expect to go through a series of extreme emotions. Because of this, it’s important to find a program that also offers support for mental health.

Holistic Detox for Psychological Dependence

The physical symptoms of detox can be overwhelming, and even dangerous. But the emotional aspect of healing is just as important. Some substances, like crack cocaine, have minimal physical withdrawal symptoms.6 Despite this, the cessation of any illicit substance can have an extreme and immediate impact on brain chemistry and mental health.

Detox may be an appropriate way to begin recovery, even for clients without physical dependence on substances. Although certain programs, like AToN, only treat physical withdrawal, other rehab centers are open to anyone with a substance use disorder.

And even if you have no physical withdrawal symptoms, you may still face some serious risks. Many clients experience severe mental health symptoms during detox,7 such as depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and more. When you begin recovery, it’s absolutely vital to get the care you need, especially at first, while your brain chemistry is changing quickly. You don’t have to do it alone or in isolation. On the contrary, you can choose to have this experience in a beautiful, inspiring setting.

Attending a Detox Program in California

Rehab programs in California tend to offer holistic detox, with a focus on sustainable health and wellness. Many of these treatment facilities offer personalized treatment, which honors the unique goals of each individual client. Because of this, California’s detox centers offer a wide variety of services.

Medical Care in a Natural Setting

Many people entering recovery have more than one diagnosis. You may have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis, a chronic physical illness, or a condition that developed in response to substance misuse, like a nutritional imbalance. And any of these conditions may require medication that impacts the process of detox.

It’s absolutely possible to recover from more than one condition at a time, but doing so requires expert medical care, tailored to meet your needs. At Monarch Shores, for example, clients work with an on-staff doctor who “will design an individually tailored medication regimen that reduces any discomfort or pain, any gastrointestinal issues, reduces or completely eliminates tremors and shakes, allows you to sleep, reduces anxiety, and improves cognitive functioning.”8

monarch shores house 1 outdoor sand
Clients can soak up the views of Southern California’s beautiful coastline while detoxing at Monarch Shores in San Juan Capistrano.

And in beautiful, temperate California, this medical attention doesn’t have to be isolating. Even if you spend most of your detox inside the facility, you can enjoy a view of the surrounding landscape. And when you’re ready, you may be able to spend some time exploring or simply relaxing in the fresh air. For many clients, communing with nature is an extremely important part of holistic healing.

Drug-Free Detox

Some clients may prefer to detox in an even more natural way, without using any medication. This strategy may be a good fit for people without co-occurring disorders, who want to have a more spiritual experience of recovery.

This type of holistic healing can do more than help you detox; it can also teach you healthy, sustainable habits for self-care. At The Holistic Sanctuary, in Baja California, clients follow a personalized treatment plan that may include massage, Reiki, yoga, nutrition counseling, and other similar modalities. Clients receive no medications, although they may have access to alternative treatments such as ibogaine therapy.

Drug-free detox is not appropriate for everyone. If you’ve been using alcohol, opiates, or benzodiazepines, this can be extremely dangerous. The same is true for people with additional diagnoses that require daily medication, including physical and mental health concerns. If you’re interested in this type of healing, be sure to get approval from a medical doctor in advance.

Whatever medications you do—or don’t—use during detox, remember that physical healing is just one facet of recovery. Some California rehabs offer complementary therapies that are designed to treat physical, mental, and behavioral health.

Complementary Therapies

Sometimes the detox process offers more than just medical attention. Detox programs here may combine medication-assisted treatment with psychotherapy and holistic approaches like massage or music therapy to ease withdrawal symptoms and improve the detox experience.

Certain experiential therapies may be too physically strenuous for clients in detox. Your healthcare team will be on hand to help you decide which activities will best support your recovery process. In early detox, you may benefit most from relaxing with a good book, listening to music, or just sleeping. Following this, many clients benefit from talk therapy, nutrition counseling, and similar modes of healing.

Detox Is Just the First Step

Detox is an effective way to begin recovery, but it’s only the beginning. There are some dangerous myths about addiction treatment,9 including the idea that detoxification “cures” substance use disorders. On the contrary, although it ​​can be successful in cleansing the person of drugs and withdrawal symptoms, detoxification does not address the underlying disorder, and thus is not adequate treatment.” One study in particular found that patients who followed detox with formal inpatient treatment had “significantly better” outcomes.10

Some clients choose a long-term rehab facility before they even enter detox. Otherwise, you may be able to plan your next steps during this initial stage of recovery. At most rehabs, your providers will help you plan for the future, ensuring your continuity of care after detox.11

Life After Detox

Your experience of detox can set the tone for the rest of your recovery process. Although it only lasts a short time, you may have experiences that inform some important long-term decisions. Because of this, it’s important to choose a detox program that aligns with your values.

There’s no right or wrong way to go about recovery. Although it’s not necessary for everyone, detox can be helpful for anyone. If you’d like to begin this process in an environment that focuses on holistic health, one of California’s programs might be a good fit.

To learn more about this process, you can browse our list of detox programs in California.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Detox Centers

What types of services are offered at California detox centers?

California detox centers offer a wide variety of services, including medical treatment, talk therapy, and holistic healing modalities. These centers provide personalized care to meet individual needs, offering support for both detox and long-term recovery.

Is medical supervision necessary during detox at California detox centers?

Yes, medical supervision is crucial during detox, especially when coming off of substances like alcohol and opiates. These substances can have dangerous withdrawal symptoms, and detoxing without proper medical supervision can be risky. Detox centers employ trained staff, including medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and therapists, to ensure clients’ safety and comfort throughout the process.

What are the benefits of holistic detox at California detox centers?

Holistic detox combines medical care with a focus on sustainable health and wellness. These centers offer personalized treatment, honoring each client’s unique goals. Clients receive expert medical care in a natural setting, where they can enjoy beautiful surroundings and commune with nature. Holistic detox also provides an opportunity to learn healthy, sustainable habits for self-care and may include complementary therapies like massage, yoga, and nutrition counseling.
Posted on

Detoxification: Frequently Asked Questions

Detoxification is the first step in addiction treatment for many people. We’re here to help you learn more about what it entails, what it feels like, and whether or not you can detox at home.

Understanding Detox

How Does Detox Work?

Detoxing is the process of allowing substances to leave your system and managing withdrawal symptoms that may follow. Your substance use history will affect your detox experience and determine whether or not you need medication-assisted treatment.

A few hours after you stop using substances, your body begins to recalibrate as they leave your system. During this adjustment period, you may develop withdrawal symptoms, which occur in stages:1 early, peak, and late.

Early stage: Generally 6 to 12 hours–or even up to 30 hours after you’ve stopped using–mild withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or difficulty sleeping may occur.

Peak stage: At the peak stage, symptoms are at their worst and can include vomiting, tremors and chills. This usually occurs 72 hours after you’ve stopped using opiates or 24 to 48 hours after you’ve stopped drinking. Because of the discomfort, relapse is likely during this stage. It’s important to have a strong support system around you, along with medical supervision.

Late stage: At this stage, your body is starting to get used to the absence of substances. Any withdrawal symptoms you may have had will start to die down.

Why supervised detox? Remember that the purpose of a supervised detox is to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and ensure you’re safely clearing your body of substances.

When Is Detox Required?

Whether or not you need detox depends on your history of substance use, including factors such as the type of substance used as well as the duration and level of use.

Withdrawal from certain substances, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, can be life-threatening. That, combined with the physiological effects of frequent exposure to substances,2 means it’s recommended to receive a medical evaluation from a medical professional before attempting to detox.

You may want to consider getting an evaluation for detox if you notice the following signs of substance or alcohol abuse, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5):

  • Cravings for substances
  • Using more substances than you plan to
  • Inability to cut down or stop substance use
  • Taking substances for longer than intended
  • Trouble maintaining relationships due to substance use
  • Continuing to use substances, even when it negatively impacts your life

Can I Detox From Drugs at Home?

For your safety, it’s never recommended to detox from drugs at home without supervision.

Not all substance detoxification is lethal. However, withdrawal from certain substances, such as alcohol withdrawal, can potentially be life-threatening.3 More serious symptoms include hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens.

It’s always safest to detox under the supervision of specialized, experienced medical professionals.

You don’t always have to go through detox at a hospital or rehab facility. If you have a strong support system at home and your condition doesn’t require hospitalization, you may be able to opt for outpatient detox.4

How Long Do I Need to Detox For?

How Long Does Detox Typically Last in Rehab?

The duration of the detoxification process in rehab depends on your substance use background and the substance you’re detoxing from. On average, detox takes 3 to 7 days.

The time it takes to detox from commonly used substances varies:

  • Alcohol: 5 to 7 days
  • Benzodiazepines: One day to several months until treatment is introduced
  • Opiates: Up to 7 days (however, it’s possible to develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms5 that last weeks, months, or even years)
  • Cocaine: Up to 7 days
  • Heroin: 5 to 7 days

Detoxing From Different Substances

Alcohol

Do I Need to Detox From Alcohol?

Whether or not you need to detox from alcohol depends on how long and how much you’ve been drinking.

The media often portrays people who are addicted to alcohol as living disarrayed lives. The truth is, addiction can affect anyone—many people suffer from high-functioning alcoholism. If you notice signs of alcohol addiction, you may consider getting an evaluation for detox:

  • drinking more, or for a longer, than intended;
  • trying to stop drinking, but being unable to;
  • spending a lot of time drinking or dealing with the aftereffects of drinking;
  • continued drinking even when it negatively interferes with work or relationships;
  • and more.

Alcohol detox carries a high risk for potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, like delirium tremens (DT).6 It’s safest to detox from alcohol under medical supervision.

If you plan to attend rehab, most residential facilities require you to be substance-free for a certain period of time before starting treatment. You can find out whether or not you’ll need to detox from alcohol during the admissions process. You have several options for detox, including on-site detox at certain rehabs.

Can I Safely Detox From Alcohol at Home?

No. Complications from alcohol withdrawal7 can pose severe to life-threatening side effects. It’s never recommended to detox from alcohol at home.

Side effects like delirium tremens (DT) can lead to chronic memory disorders or life-threatening seizures. DT side effects often don’t show up until 2 to 3 days after you’ve last ingested alcohol.

Even if you don’t experience life-threatening side effects, because of the extreme discomfort of withdrawal, you’re more likely to relapse if you try to detox from alcohol at home8 in comparison to detoxing under medical supervision.

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol?

It usually takes about 5 to 7 days to detox from alcohol.

What Does Alcohol Detox Feel Like?

Most people experience varying levels of discomfort when detoxing from alcohol. As alcohol leaves your system, you can experience mild to severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms:9

  • Sleep disturbances, like insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Visual and auditory disturbances
  • Cardiovascular complications, like rapid heart rate
  • Muscle pain and stiffness

The discomfort alcohol withdrawal causes can lead people to relapse, especially if they try to detox alone at home.

When you detox under medical supervision, clinical staff help monitor your condition, soothe your symptoms, and offer round-the-clock support. Detoxing under medical supervision enhances both your safety and comfort.

Benzodiazepines

Can I Detox From Benzodiazepines at Home?

You should never try to detox from benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” alone at home.

Unsupervised withdrawal from benzodiazepines can result in life-threatening side effects.10 Because of the potential severity of these withdrawals, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends “patients taking benzodiazepines should not suddenly stop taking them11 without first discussing a plan with your health care professional for slowly decreasing the dose and frequency.”

It’s also not recommended to quit cold turkey following long-term use; a large number of people have reported negative and long-lasting side effects of benzo withdrawal.12

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Benzodiazepines?

It takes one day to several months (until treatment is introduced) to detox from benzodiazepines. Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, vomiting, and nausea peak within the first 14 days after you last ingested benzodiazepines.

What Does Benzodiazepines Detox Feel Like?

Detoxing from benzodiazepines can present a wide range of uncomfortable side effects. Because detoxing from benzos can be so uncomfortable, one of the goals of medically supervised detox is to help soothe patients’ discomfort while ensuring their safety.

Some of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines13 include Valium, Xanax, Halcion, Ativan, and Klonopin. They have similar withdrawal symptoms, however, Xanax may cause more severe symptoms.

When you detox from benzodiazepines after your body has become physiologically dependent on them, you may experience mild to severe withdrawal symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Increased anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle spasms
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Restlessness
  • Hand tremors
  • Aches and pains

Benzos withdrawal symptoms occur in stages and depend on your history of substance use.

Stage 1: You may first notice short-lived symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia within 1 to 4 days of benzos discontinuation.14

Stage 2: Peak withdrawal symptoms occur in the second stage, which many people describe as the most difficult phase to overcome. This usually lasts 10 to 14 days.

Stage 3: An estimated 10 to 25% of people who use benzodiazepines for an extended period of time experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms,15 or PAWS. During this stage, you’ll notice a return of anxiety and other withdrawal symptoms until you begin to address them with some form of professional addiction treatment.

Opioids

What Does It Feel Like to Detox From Opioids?

Detoxing from opioids can present highly uncomfortable psychological and physical effects16 depending on your past substance use and severity of dependence. These symptoms can arise whether you’re detoxing from medically prescribed pain relievers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine, or illicit opiates, such as heroin.

During detox, as substances leave your system, you’ll begin to experience withdrawal symptoms. The extent of these symptoms depends on your substance use history, severity of use, and whether you’re detoxing from immediate-release opioids17 (such as morphine) or extended-release opioids18 (such as methadone), as defined by the CDC.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms19 are often uncomfortable. They can include anxiety, rapid heart rate, muscle pain, runny or watery eyes, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, and more.

Opiate withdrawal can be lethal.20 It’s always recommended to detox under the guidance of an addiction-specialized healthcare professional.

With short-acting opioids, withdrawals typically begin 8 to 24 hours after your last use. With long-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms can onset 12 to 48 hours after the last use.

How to Detox From Opioids

While usually not life-threatening, opiate withdrawal can be lethal. Therefore, you should always detox from opiates under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Whether you detox at a hospital, private detox center, or on-site at a residential rehab facility, you should have healthcare workers available to you 24 hours a day.

If you were using short-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms will onset 8 to 24 hours after your last use. For long-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms present themselves 12 to 48 hours after last use.

Mild opioid withdrawal management:
If you have mild withdrawal symptoms, treatment providers will ensure you consume 2 to 3 liters of water a day, along with vitamin B and C supplements to replenish lost fluids. They will also observe and monitor your symptoms 3 to 4 times a day using a Short Opioids Withdrawal Scale (SOWS).21

Moderate to severe opioid withdrawal management:
Clinicians will follow the same management techniques as with mild withdrawal cases. However, they may also use medication to minimize the severity of symptoms.

It should be noted that while detox is the first step in addiction treatment, it should be followed up with an addiction treatment program to create lasting changes to addictive behaviors.

How Long Does Opioid Detox Take?

It may take up to 7 days for opioids to fully leave your body. However, withdrawal symptoms may last longer than that.

For immediate-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 4 to 10 days. For extended-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 10 to 20 days

Depending on your opioid use background, it’s possible to develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).22 These can last weeks, months, or even years after you’ve last taken opiates. Some of these symptoms include memory issues, irritability, and depressed moods.

There is treatment for PAWS, which can be administered over the period of time you’re experiencing symptoms. Aftercare is critical to addiction treatment. If you’ve completed a treatment program, your aftercare counselor or therapist can help you identify PAWS symptoms and recommend a treatment plan. Or, you can search for rehabs that offer detox programs and speak to an intake specialist about PAWS treatment.

Cocaine

How long does it take to detox from cocaine?

It takes up to 7 days to detox from cocaine. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms are generally more psychological than physical and can include agitation, depression, anxiety, and other effects on your mood.

Where can I Detox?

You can detox at several different types of facilities. While it should be noted that not all at-home detox is lethal, detoxing from certain substances can pose life-threatening risks. It’s always recommended to detox under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

You can undergo substance abuse detox at several types of facilities:

  • Hospitals
  • Residential rehabs (not all inpatient rehabs offer on-site detox)
  • Private detox centers

How Long Do Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

On average, it takes 3 to 7 days for substances to leave your system. However, withdrawal symptoms can persist even after you’re substance-free.

Alcohol withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol typically begin about 6 hours after you’ve last ingested a drink. They can last up to 72 hours after your last drink. In more severe yet rare cases, moderate withdrawal symptoms, such as alcohol hallucinosis, can last for up to a month.23

Benzodiazepines withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines usually last 10 to 14 days. However, some people can develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), which is a return of withdrawal symptoms several months after last use.

Opioid withdrawal timeline: For immediate-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 4 to 10 days. For extended-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 10 to 20 days. Depending on your substance use history, it’s also possible to develop PAWS from opioids. These symptoms may last weeks, months, or even years after you’ve last taken opioids.

Cocaine withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal usually begins 90 minutes following the last dose. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms,24 such as irritability and cravings, can last up to 10 weeks depending on your level of dependency.

Detox Costs

How Much Does Detox Cost?

The cost of detox This depends on the substance you’re detoxing from, the level of care, the length of treatment, and the detox facility.

In the U.S., the cost of detox at a private rehab can range from less than $10,000 to over $75,000 per month. Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most of these private rehab centers accept insurance.

To learn more about your options for detox treatment, browse through our list of detox centers.

Posted on

What You Need to Know About Detox

Detoxing from alcohol or other substances is often the first step in addiction treatment. In fact, many people have their first-ever encounter with the treatment system through detox. And as with any first step, this stage of recovery can profoundly impact the rest of your journey.

As you plan for treatment, you may find yourself asking these questions: 

Do I even need to detox? 

Where do I detox?

Where can I get help planning my detox? 

That’s why we’ve created this guide to drug and alcohol detox, which covers the need-to-know information.

We’ll start by examining the purpose of detox and how it fits into your recovery journey. 

What’s the Purpose of Detox?

The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines detox for substance abuse treatment1 as “a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal.” 

During detox, your body withdraws from alcohol or drugs. For this reason, some medical bodies like the American Society of Addiction Management (ASAM) have actually replaced the term “detoxification” with “withdrawal management.” Alcohol withdrawal can potentially be life-threatening,2 so we can’t discuss detox without stressing the importance of safety. It’s safest to detox under medical supervision, with the support of specialized, experienced professionals.

It’s also important to note that while detox is often the first step towards sobriety, it’s not a lasting solution to changing addictive behaviors. 

According to SAMHSA’s Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment manual, “Detoxification, in and of itself, does not constitute complete substance abuse treatment.” Additionally, it stresses that proper treatment involves “ongoing therapeutic services ultimately intended to promote recovery for substance abuse patients.” 

Followed by a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at sustainable sobriety, safe detox can serve as a crucial first step towards lasting recovery. 

Discover residential rehab detox programs and private detox centers at various price ranges, locations, and for different conditions by exploring our collection of rehabs with detox here.

When Is Detox Required?

Whether or not you need detox depends on the history of your substance use, including the length, level of use, and type of substance used. 

Receiving an evaluation from a medical professional is recommended, especially if using benzodiazepines or alcohol as withdrawal from these substances can be life-threatening. You can ask your primary care doctor or psychiatrist to connect you to the right resources. Rehabs also offer over-the-phone detox assessments as part of the intake process, then a more in-depth evaluation with a clinician. 

Director of Admissions Heather Charlet describes Gallus Medical Detox Centers‘ process:

“The detox process typically starts when a loved one, or the person who needs to come in, calls. We talk to them, get some basic information, then complete an over-the-phone assessment for about 20 or 30 minutes. We ask them a series of questions: their basic history, medical history, and their substance use.”

As a rule of thumb, if you notice signs of substance or alcohol abuse as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), you may want to consider getting an evaluation for detox. Some signs of substance abuse include:

  • Cravings to use substances
  • Inability to cut down or stop substance use
  • Taking more substances than you plan to 
  • Using substances for longer than intended
  • Continuing to use substances even when it puts you in danger or otherwise negatively affects your life

Because of the physiological effects of frequent exposure to substances,3 it’s always recommended to consult with a medical professional before attempting to detox. 

When you consult with a medical practitioner, they’ll determine your safest detox option by performing assessments such as:

  • A body exam to check for symptoms like rapid heart rate and shaky hands
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Toxicology screening

Do You Need to Detox Before Rehab?

Most residential rehabs require you to be substance-free for a certain number of days before coming in. You can find out if detox is recommended for you during your initial assessment during the admissions process. 

What Can You Expect From Detox?

Your substance use history will affect the withdrawal experience, how long you can expect to detox, and whether or not you’ll need medication-assisted treatment (MAT). 

Gallus Detox Center in Scottsdale, Arizona
Gallus Detox Center in Scottsdale, Arizona

Here’s what you can expect from detox:

A few hours after you stop using, your body begins to adjust to substances leaving your system. This adjustment process can lead to the development of withdrawal symptoms. It might sound daunting, but keep in mind that the purpose of a supervised detox is to minimize the severity of these symptoms and ensure you’re safely clearing your body of substances. 

Substance withdrawal occurs in stages,4 which are categorized as early, peak, and late stages. 

Early Stage

Depending on the substance, this occurs 6 to 12, or up to 30 hours after you’ve stopped using. Milder symptoms like anxiety and irritability will start to show. 

Peak Stage

This stage occurs 24 to 48 hours after you’ve stopped drinking, or 72 hours for opiates. Symptoms are at their worst and can include tremors, chills and vomiting. Relapse is most likely at this stage, so having a strong support system and medical supervision is advised.  

Late Stage

The body is getting used to the absence of substances and withdrawal symptoms begin tailing off. If you’ve been on a medical detox, medication can be tapered down. 

On average, detox takes 3 to 7 days. Opiates and benzodiazepines are known to take the longest to withdraw from and it can take up to 14 days for withdrawal symptoms to peak. 

In more serious cases, your doctor might recommend medication-assisted treatment:5 medication combined with counseling and behavioral therapy. 

Detoxing From Different Substance Addictions

Withdrawal effects vary by substance, with some posing more dangerous side effects than others. We explore detoxing from different substances below. 

Detoxing From Alcohol

Alcohol detox poses a high risk with potential for severe withdrawal side effects like delirium tremens (DT), a life-threatening side effect of alcohol withdrawal6 that can cause seizures. Delirium tremens symptoms usually show up 2 to 3 days after someone last ingested alcohol. 

  • Symptoms include anxiety, nausea, tremors and other psychological and physical symptoms.
  • The alcohol detox time frame is 5 to 7 days. 

Detoxing From Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines detox carries a high risk with potential for severe withdrawal side effects. Unsupervised withdrawal from benzodiazepines can result in lethal side effects,7 including seizures. 

  • Symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, vomiting and other psychological and physical symptoms.
  • The benzodiazepines detox time frame is one day to several months until treatment is introduced.
  • Withdrawal peaks within the first 14 days.  

Detoxing From Opiates 

Australia’s National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre published that opiate withdrawal can be lethal.8

  • Symptoms include muscle pain, anxiety, rapid heart rate and other psychological and physical effects. 
  • The opiate detox time frame is up to 7 days. Those who are detoxing can develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms9  lasting weeks, months or even years.

Detoxing From Cocaine

Cocaine withdrawal is known to be more psychological than physical.

  • Symptoms include agitation, anxiety, depression and other effects on mood. 
  • The time frame for cocaine detox is up to 7 days. 

How Do Different Facilities Handle Detox?

You have several options for detox, so it helps to know what each entails. 

Substance Abuse Detox at Hospitals

After a medical evaluation, your doctor will suggest the best course of treatment. Usually, family and friends aren’t allowed to visit during substance abuse detoxes. However, clinical staff are there to soothe your symptoms and offer round-the-clock support. They should also keep you informed of the status of your progress. 

Detoxing at a Residential Rehab Facility

When you contact an inpatient rehab, you’ll complete an over-the-phone assessment during the intake process. This is usually followed by an in-depth evaluation with a clinician, during which they’ll recommend a detox plan. Some on-site detox centers offer counseling during detox to ease you through its discomforts. And when you’re finished detoxing, you’ll have a smoother transition into treatment.

What to Expect at a Private Detox Center

Many rehabs don’t have in-house detox facilities, but will refer you to a detox center and help you with transfers and other necessary logistics. Admissions staff at private centers can provide an assessment and answer your questions about cost, what to expect in treatment, and your estimated length of stay. Private detox centers are fully equipped to handle everything related to detox, and some may specialize in certain types of cases. 

Douglass Weiss, President & Chief Customer Officer of Gallus Detox Centers, discusses these special cases:

“If a patient is a longer term user or a higher level user of a substance, detoxing can be very difficult and has a significant mortality risk to it. When you have patients taking multiple substances, you have to be prepared in order to deal with those side effects. Residential treatment centers don’t have that level of expertise. So we’re equipped to take the patients that they can’t handle.”

How Detox Is Handled at Home (Outpatient Detox)

If you have a strong support system at home and your condition doesn’t require hospitalization, you may be able to opt for outpatient detox.10 Similarly to the other options, you’ll go through an initial assessment and outline your detox plan with a health professional. You’ll then visit a hospital or clinic daily (weekdays only), either during the day or evening. Outpatient detox programs usually range from 3 to 14 days, with sessions that run from 15 to 30 minutes. However, if your detox program includes a day hospital program,11 your sessions may last several hours. Keep in mind that outpatient detox is only done under the supervision of a medical professional working at the treatment facility you’ve signed up with. 

This arrangement works for people who want to keep up with work or family responsibilities while getting the addiction treatment they need. 

Understanding Your Detox Options

For many people, detoxing is a crucial part of the recovery journey. Given the importance of this step, it’s best to be equipped with accurate, up-to-date information surrounding it. The good news is, our understanding of detox from substance abuse has grown tremendously. Today, a number of different detox programs are available across the globe and it’s easier than ever to find one that fits your needs. And the more you understand about how detox works and what options are available to you, the more equipped you’ll be to find a solution. 

See our collection of rehabs offering detox here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Detox

What is detox?

Detox is the process of removing drugs or alcohol from the body. It’s often the first step in addiction treatment, and it can be a challenging process. However, detox is an important part of the recovery process, and doing so under proper care can help to reduce the risk of relapse.

What are the risks of detoxing at home?

There are many risks associated with detoxing at home. Some of the most common risks include seizures, severe withdrawal symptoms, and relapse.

What are the benefits of detoxing in a medical setting?

Detoxing in a medical setting can improve your safety, comfort, and chances of success as medical professionals monitor you for any complications and provide treatment if needed. It’s also more likely to be successful than detoxing at home, as your care team gives you the support you need to stay sober and can help your develop a plan for long-term recovery.