09 Aug When Is Medical Detoxification the Right Step to Take | Calm Rehab

Grappling with substance use disorder is one of the most challenging things an individual can face. Sometimes, it can be so unbearable that medical detoxification is essential. Today, Calm Rehab wants to discuss when people may need medical assistance with abstinence, giving you a more well-rounded view of the process and what it involves. When someone is battling addiction, it is vital that we consider the physical and psychological effects of every step, ensuring that they are receiving the treatment they need to get back on their feet. It is never too late to reach out if you or someone you know is struggling. Together, we can eradicate substance use disorder and become the best version of ourselves. Remember, everyone is different, but we must always approach this situation with empathy and understanding, allowing people to take advantage of all interventions available to them.

Understanding What We Mean by Medical Detoxification

Medical Detoxification is when a person’s physical health has been so impaired by substance abuse that they need the assistance of medical professionals. It involves the systematic removal of toxins under close supervision. The primary reason people undergo this treatment is to maintain physical and mental stability by removing toxic substances and managing withdrawal symptoms. The end goal of medical detoxification is for a person to be able to carry on with addiction treatment without medical assistance and be closely monitored. Utilising specific medications can massively decrease the risk of significant complications along the way. Often, natural alternatives don’t have such a strong impact, can come with additional complications, and are carried out without the monitoring of medical professionals.

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms with Medical Detoxification

Depending on the drug being used and an individual’s health and genetics, withdrawal symptoms can vary massively.  When a person is struggling with substance use disorder, they will likely experience symptoms such as anxiety, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and insomnia. However, when withdrawal symptoms are severe, they can experience seizures and extreme delirium. With the assistance of medical detoxification, these symptoms are significantly lessened. When withdrawal symptoms are reduced, the road to recovery becomes much more manageable.  

Why Some Substances Require Medical Detoxification

When we become dependent on a substance, it will likely impact our physical health, causing our body to react in ways it otherwise wouldn’t. However, it is essential to note that not every substance causes a significant impact and medical detoxification is not always required. Some substances, such as opioids, alcohol and benzodiazepines, can have an immense effect on our entire physiology. When someone develops a dependency on these substances, it can massively change the way their brain and body function, causing them to struggle with withdrawals when they stop using. These substances have such a huge impact that sudden cessation can lead to organ failure, seizures, and cardiac issues. Each one of these has the potential to be life-threatening. Reducing withdrawals with medical detoxification enhances the likelihood of a successful recovery and helps to avoid fatal scenarios.

What are the Risks of Abrupt Cessation When Struggling with Substance Use Disorder?

Coming off a substance abruptly without proper medical supervision can pose some major problems for both our physical and mental health. For example, opioid withdrawals can be so unpleasant that without medical intervention, relapse becomes highly likely. On the other hand, withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be fatal. They may start with sweating and tremors but can quickly shift towards delirium tremens and organ failure. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, it is essential to find out the level of expected withdrawals from a medical professional before moving forward with a recovery plan.

Specific Substances that Often Require Medical Detoxification and Why

Depending on the substance and the individual struggling, the detoxification process will be different. It is essential to understand that everyone is unique, and we must approach addiction recovery with the help of medical professionals to ensure it is done correctly. That being said, there are three substances that regularly need medical detoxification: Opioids, Alcohol, and benzodiazepines.

Opioids – These can range from powerful pain-relieving medications such as oxycodone to illicit substances such as heroin, and they can all be highly addictive. With prolonged use, it is almost certain that a person will become physically dependent. Withdrawal from these substances can become very challenging, and when they are severe, medical detoxification can stabilise symptoms and lower cravings. There are various medications that can be used, but common ones for this treatment are methadone and buprenorphine.

Benzodiazepines – These are prescribed medications often used to treat insomnia, seizures, and anxiety, creating a calming effect on the central nervous system. However, they can be highly addictive, and it doesn’t take long to develop a dependency. Withdrawal symptoms after prolonged use can be life-threatening, so it is vital to seek professional assistance when coming off them. Due to the level of physical dependency, medical detoxification often involves reducing the dosage over time under strict medical supervision.

Alcohol – Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system and can lead to high dependency over time. Withdrawal symptoms can vary massively, but they can be life-threatening in severe cases. Medical detoxification often includes prescription drugs such as benzodiazepine or anticonvulsants, but a doctor will be able to assess the necessity of and tailor a solution for the individual.

Other Substances That May Require Medical Detoxification in Extreme Circumstances

Though the three mentioned above are most likely to require medical detoxification, it is crucial to understand that it may be required with multiple substances wherever a person has developed a dependency. It is not uncommon for people to develop dependencies on stimulants like cocaine, amphetamines, or barbiturates. When overcoming a dependency on any substance, there will always be withdrawal symptoms of some kind. A medical professional will assess the person’s individual requirements to ensure the correct recovery plan is developed and carried out.

The process of Medical Detoxification

The first step of medical detoxification should always be a thorough medical assessment by a healthcare professional. This will include gathering information on substance use history, level of dependency, physical and mental health, and current signs of withdrawal. Once this is completed, a personalised medical detoxification plan can be developed. The plan will be unique to the individual but may include symptom management medication, nutrition support, psychological interventions, and hydration medicine. Once the plan starts, a medical professional will closely monitor the progress, making necessary adjustments and ensuring the treatment plan is going well. It is essential that medical detoxification is carried out in a safe, empathetic, and supportive environment.

The Aftercare of Medical Detoxification

Medical detoxification is only the beginning of a person’s addiction treatment and recovery journey. Maintaining a healthy, caring, and supportive environment is fundamental to success. This can be achieved through rehabilitation programs, outpatient counselling, support groups, mindfulness practices, therapy and many other forms of support that help people address the underlying causes of addiction while developing healthy coping strategies. Recovering from addiction is not a quick journey, so taking advantage of all available resources through this journey is essential.

How to Tell if Someone Close is Struggling with SUD

Identifying substance use disorder and dependency can be challenging, but if you’re concerned about a loved one, recognising particular signs can help with early intervention. Telltale signs of heavy substance use can include the following:

•      Changes in behaviour
•      Social withdrawal
•      Mood swings
•      Financial difficulties
•      Neglecting responsibilities
•      Unusual physical health issues

If you suspect someone you know is struggling with addiction, offer them support and express your concerns in a kind and empathetic way. Gently encourage them to seek the help of medical professionals. With the right approach, it is possible to get the right level of care in a timely manner, speeding up the entire recovery process.

Other Methods of Detoxification: The Benefits and Risks Involved

Besides medical detoxification, there are alternative methods that can help. These include natural detox, rapid detox, and outpatient detox programs. Each one involves different approaches and varies in effectiveness and risk. Outpatient detox programs offer flexibility but lack the structure needed for severe cases. Rapid detox is fast but comes without the psychological support needed to address the factors contributing to addiction, and natural detox carries a much higher risk of withdrawal in high-level cases of dependency. Before approaching any detoxification method, it is essential to seek the help of a medical professional to ensure the treatment will cause no physical or psychological harm to the person. One of the most critical aspects of recovery is making an informed decision, and that can’t be done without the proper support.

Do You Know Someone Who Needs Help with Addiction?

Whether you need help for a loved one or yourself, finding the proper support to overcome addiction is essential. Approaching the situation never feels nice, but it is the first step towards recovery. If you need help or advice about overcoming substance use disorder, contact the team at Calm Rehab Centre today. We are a collective of compassionate professionals dedicated to addiction recovery.