Detoxification (“detox”) is the physical or medicinal removal of toxic substances (drugs) from the body. This is mainly carried out by the liver, but also through carbon dioxide in the air we exhale, the kidneys, and the colon.
Read on to learn more about detox, how long it takes, and the factors that impact it.
What Is Drug Detox?
Detox from substance abuse helps start the withdrawal process by safely cleansing alcohol & drugs from the body. The goal is to minimize the harm due to substance abuse and assist the patient to successfully complete the withdrawal process [1].
The two main objectives are to:
- Minimize the effects of withdrawal
- Diminish any side effects
With detox, the person can achieve complete abstinence, or at least periodically relapsing abstinence, in some cases, such as heroin withdrawal [2].
Abstinence may not be achievable or desirable for some users as the motivation for many who complete detox is to reduce their dependence and related costs of drug use.
Detox is best thought of not necessarily as an end in itself, but rather as a transitional state between dependence and abstinence, or at least reduced harm.
As the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) noted, “Detoxification alone does not address the psychological, social and behavioral problems associated with addiction and therefore does not typically produce lasting behavioral changes necessary for recovery. Detoxification should thus be followed by a formal assessment and referral to drug addiction treatment [1].”
The first step in withdrawal is detox. There are two phases to withdrawal [2]:
- Acute withdrawal: Medical withdrawal symptoms that require immediate medical attention to help keep you comfortable during this initial detox phase. Many substance users believe this phase is the main effort in getting clean, but this is a fantasy.
- Post-acute withdrawal: This is a much longer phase of maintaining abstinence, and relapses are common. Patients, their families, and staff frequently have a belief that detoxification is the key issue. However, this is a small part of the long road to abstinence.
How Long Does the Detox Process Take?
Detox usually takes between a few days and a few weeks. Psychosocial therapies, complementing medical detox, are essential to improve long-term outcomes.
Factors that Impact Drug Detox
The main factors which impact the success of drug detox are:
- The Substance of Use: Some drugs (e.g. meth and heroin) have stronger cravings and are more difficult to detox from.
- Severity of the dependence: The length of time a substance has been abused and the frequency of use are critical variables in determining the speed and success of detox.
- Support available to the user: The social context of the detox process and having qualified support, such as friends or family, plays a major role in its success. Building a strong support system is key. Sharing similar experiences and seeking advice in the later stages of detox goes a long way toward ensuring a successful detox.
The Length of Detox by Substance
Timelines vary with the individual, the substance, and how long they have been using. The general guidance for the acute phase of withdrawal from these substances is:
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Supporting A Loved One in Detox
Here are a few tips for best-supporting someone in detox:
- Inform yourself about detox: To provide effective support, it’s best to learn about addiction, detox, and withdrawal. There are lots of resources online to educate yourself about detoxing and the specific substance they are withdrawing from.
- Ask questions: Don’t be shy to ask around, either to a doctor, addictions counselor, support group, or knowledgeable friends.
- Don’t purchase alcohol or drugs: Help your loved one by not enabling their addiction. Check the house and remove them. And, of course, don’t buy substances for them. It will just set them, and you, back.
- Remove and secure prescriptions: Check your bathroom and bedroom for any prescriptions that may be legal for you but are not recommended for your loved one to find.
- Arrange family therapy: In advance of the detox sessions, make arrangements to begin counseling as a family because addiction is a disease of the family. This can help you and your loved one communicate better and work through issues as they arise from a place of greater strength.
- Stay positive and patient: Detox is a very challenging situation. Your loved one will need all the support you can offer. Your attitude is key. Recovery is a long process that only begins with detox. Patience will be the greatest asset you can share. Staying positive will also help your own mental health as you accompany them on a journey together.
- Have fun together: By doing enjoyable activities, you strengthen your bond with your loved one and reduce stress.
Residential Detox in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands the complex nature of drug & alcohol recovery. We prioritize your well-being, safety, and comfort during treatment. Our detox and residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward sobriety.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of your substance abuse. Let our team help you get clean, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery. Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). 2014. Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)
[2] Physical Detoxification Services for Withdrawal From Specific Substances. 2006. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series, No. 45. Rockville (MD): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US).