The goal of detox is to rid the body of harmful chemicals. Detox plans can assist drug addicts who used illegal substances and developed a drug habit, as well as those who have been on prescribed medications that require a detoxification process. Counselors at Narconon report that the detoxification process should include treatment for all aspects of an addiction, ranging from physical withdrawals to psychological dependency.
Step 1
Consult a physician or trained addiction health care provider about the best way to begin the detox process. Withdrawal symptoms vary from drug to drug and may require medical supervision or a weaning process. For example, sudden withdrawal from some anti-anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines can result in serious complications, report doctors at the American Academy of Family Physicians. Withdrawal symptoms from opiates can be managed with methadone.
Step 2
Expect to spend anywhere from two days to several weeks going through withdrawal. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that the length of withdrawal varies widely. Physical withdrawal symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and headaches may be severe for a couple days, while depression can last for weeks.
Step 3
Find a drug treatment program that specializes in the types of drugs you have been taking. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a free treatment locator on its website that categorizes drug treatment facilities. In addition to listings for various kinds of drugs, categories are included for specialized centers for women, adolescents or other groups.
Step 4
Participate in counseling to continue with the detox process once you've overcome the initial withdrawal. AAFP doctors report that medical management typically is not sufficient to completely detox patients from drugs. Behavioral changing and cognitive therapy can help addicts work on the underlying causes of their addiction while finding alternative ways to express their feelings.
Tips and Warnings
- Join a 12-step recovery program before you enter detox and continue with the meetings once you're released from treatment. Both alcoholics and drug abusers utilize the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, though other programs such as Narcotics Anonymous and Cocaine Anonymous also are available.
- Some drugs used to detox patients are themselves addicting. Though methadone is highly addictive, it can help to at least reduce the number of HIV infections from shared needles.
