Medical detox is a detoxification process that is easier, safer, and less uncomfortable for those experiencing withdrawal. Medical detox consists of going to a hospital or detoxification clinic and staying there through the length of the most serious withdrawal symptoms.
1. Medical Detox Eases Withdrawal Symptoms
The first benefit of medical drug and alcohol detox program is that patients have reduced symptoms of withdrawal. With medical detox, different types of medications can be used to manage symptoms and keep patients comfortable. Some of the most commonly used medications include:
- Suboxone
- Naloxone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Methadone
Some of the withdrawal symptoms that can be managed with these drugs include:
- Cravings
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramping
- Insomnia
- Sore muscles
- Watering eyes
- Tremors
…and many others.
2. Medical Detox Reduces the Likelihood of Relapsing During Withdrawal
Since withdrawal symptoms can be so significant, many people end up relapsing and going back on drugs or alcohol simply to stop the pain. In some cases, this may lead to an overdose as the person uses more than usual to try to cope with their symptoms. Fortunately, in a qualified detoxification center, there is 24-hour monitoring, and any uncomfortable symptoms can be treated.
3. Detoxification Is Guaranteed
A significant percentage of those who try to detox on their own fail to do so successfully. To make it easier to detox and be sure that a patient has the substance completely out of their system, a medically monitored program is best. In these programs, clients are guaranteed to successfully go through detoxification, and it’s much more likely to be comfortable for them. This does not, of course, mean that full recovery is guaranteed. But medical detox is an important first step.
4. Medical Detox Is Safer than Going Cold Turkey
One of the most significant reasons for detoxing at a medical facility is that it’s much safer than going cold turkey. Detoxing from some substances — like detoxing from alcohol, for example — can be dangerous. Delirium tremens can be life-threatening, but with medical monitoring, it’s safer to stop drinking without the risk of hallucinations, seizures, or medical issues like liver damage. People who take drugs may find that they relapse quickly or are at risk of life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking drugs suddenly. This is why having a medical treatment team monitor a client is essential throughout the peak stages of withdrawal.
5. There Is a Strong Support Team Available During Medical Detox
Another reason to go through withdrawal with the help of medical professionals at a detoxification facility is that medical detox provides a better support system. Some people know that they want to quit using drugs or drinking alcohol, but it may be difficult if the people around them still use or if they don’t have a strong support team to help them.
A medical detox team is an excellent solution because the staff can work with a client from the point of admission until they are medically stable and able to move on to rehabilitation. Our team of specialists at our Tampa Florida Rehab Center work closely with each patient to monitor their symptoms, treat underlying health conditions and mental health disorders through programs like