Detox is one of the most crucial components of addiction recovery.   Yet few people completely understand the process.   The information below sheds light on the detox process, why it is important and what individuals can expect when they take part in a detox plan.

What is Detox?

Drug detox or alcohol detox is the process of cleansing the system of harmful toxins.   Drugs and alcohol bring these toxins into the body where they cause problems in the way that the brain and other key areas function.   Until the individual is free of these toxins, their body will continue to be “under the control” of these illicit substances.

Detox is the manner in which people cleanse themselves.   Detox involves the ceasing of drug or alcohol intake so that the body has a chance to cleanse itself.

What are the Different Types of Detox?

There are two primary types of detox:  natural or medical.  With natural detox, the individual goes “cold turkey” (stopping the intake completely) while in the care of a medical professional.    Professionals are on hand to help the individual get through difficult withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced during the process.

The other type of detox is medical detox.   With medical detox, the individual uses a synthetic version of a drug (usually an opiate) that mimics many of the same effects as the actual drug.   By giving the individual smaller and smaller doses of the synthetic drug over time, the hope is that they will detoxify without having to go through heavy withdrawal.

What are the Withdrawal Symptoms associated with Detox?

There are a number of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that the individual may experience during detox, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Sleeplessness
• Strong drug cravings
• Sweating
• Chills
• Restless leg symptoms

How long does Detox take to complete?

Every detox program is a little different, but most natural detox plans take about two weeks to complete.   Medical detox for opiate addiction may take longer, depending on how gradually the individual reduces his intake of methadone (or other synthetic opiate).

Where does Detox take place?

There are a number of different places where detox can occur.   Some drug rehab centers offer detox onsite at the facility.   If a drug rehab center does not offer detox, they will likely recommend a clinic or hospital setting nearby that does.   Also, medicinal detox usually takes place at a methadone clinic – a controlled, supervised atmosphere that must be visited every day in order to receive treatment.