09 Aug What Medications Are Commonly Used During Detoxification in Rehab Centres?

One of the most challenging aspects of the recovery process can be managing withdrawals. Withdrawal symptoms can be excruciatingly unbearable, affecting us physically and emotionally. Without management, it is likely for them to lead a person to use again, as it can feel like there is no other way. In severe cases, withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, so approaching recovery without the correct support is something to be avoided. Today, Calm Rehab Centre wants to discuss the medications doctors prescribe to help a person with substance use disorder and how they help ensure a safe and successful recovery. Addiction is one of the most challenging battles to face, but it is never impossible to get on the path to sobriety.

Understanding Withdrawal and What it can do to Our Body and Mind

Before going into specific withdrawal symptoms, it is essential to know that everyone’s withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on their level of dependency, health, genetic factors, etc. However, it is helpful to have an understanding of the effects.

Alcohol – Common alcohol withdrawal symptoms are tremors, anxiety, nausea, sweating, and vomiting. In severe cases of dependency, it can lead to seizures, delirium, or organ failure.

Opioids – Withdrawal symptoms for both prescribed and illicit opioid abstinence are likely to include agitation, muscle aches, abdominal cramps, intense cravings, insomnia, and diarrhoea.

Benzodiazepine – Coming off benzodiazepine can cause anxiety, panic attacks, tremors, sweating, seizures, and insomnia. With a heavy addiction, stopping abruptly can even be fatal.

Stimulants – Withdrawals for these are almost sure to include fatigue, depression, disturbed sleep patterns, and an increased appetite.

Though some of these symptoms may not seem too bad on paper, they can be extraordinarily intense and lead a person to relapse or in some cases be fatal. It is vital to seek the help of a qualified healthcare provider to ensure a safe and effective recovery plan.

Common Medications Used in Drug & Alcohol Detox

Anticonvulsants – These are used during the detoxification of alcohol to prevent seizures. Seizures during alcohol recovery can be extremely serious; anticonvulsants are often a necessity. Common medications prescribed are carbamazepine, valproic acid, gabapentin, and vigabatrin.

Benzodiazepine – Though they can be addictive if not managed correctly, they can play a vital role in managing a plethora of withdrawal symptoms, especially those such as anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. They are often used for medical detoxification during alcohol recovery but are also used in the recovery of benzodiazepine itself, reducing the dosage under medical supervision.

Methadone – This is a long-acting opioid used in medical detoxification for opioid addiction. It helps manage intense cravings and can alleviate multiple withdrawal symptoms. They work by engaging with the same receptors of the brain but without the same high.

Phenobarbital – This nerve-stabilising medicine can be a massive help to those suffering from alcohol or sedative withdrawal. However, it is extremely strong and does require close professional supervision when being used during detox.

Buprenorphine – This is used during opioid detoxification by effectively managing cravings, reducing withdrawal symptoms, and enhancing the recovery process. There is a much lower risk associated with buprenorphine than other opioid detoxification medicines, but it isn’t the best solution for every case.

Has Addiction Affected Your Life?

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it is not too late to make a significant change. Substance use disorder can affect us all, but there are multiple methods to end it now. At Calm Rehab Centre, we provide an empathetic, holistic, and multifaceted approach to our clients recovering from addiction. If you need any advice concerning the recovery process, contact us to learn more.