Drug Detox Programs and Drug Withdrawal

By Jonathan Huttner

Detox or detoxification may sound like a simple process, but in fact, it is quite complex. Each person comes into the process of drug detox with different tolerances and different degrees of tolerance for discomfort. The goal of drug detox is to rid the body of toxins accumulated by drug abuse. The first step of drug detox is drug withdrawal. The definition of drug withdrawal is " the discontinuation of the use of an addictive substance, and the physiological and mental readjustment that accompanies such discontinuation." Once an individual has discontinued using drugs, physical and behavioral drug withdrawal symptoms may follow. The nature and severity of the drug withdrawal symptoms vary greatly depending on the particular drug or drugs that were being used as well as the frequency of use. These days there are few people who use one drug exclusively. It is very common to see individuals in drug detox that use alcohol and cocaine, or alcohol and prescription medications for example. Drug detox is a process that applies to any individual who is addicted to drugs. Detoxification helps diminish the uncomfortable symptoms of drug withdrawal.

Drug Detox

Drug detox services are provided in many different ways depending on where you decide to receive addiction treatment. Most drug detox centers simply provide treatment to avoid physical withdrawal to alcohol & other drugs. Ideally, an effective drug detox facility will incorporate counseling and therapy during detox to help with the psychological distress that the individual may experience as well.

Drug Detox Programs

Drug detox programs tend to run the gamut from weekend retreat houses to elaborate and incredibly expensive drug detox suites. The key for any drug detox program lies in its ability to provide safe and effective management of any drug withdrawal symptoms and any medical or psychiatric problems that may present themselves. Drug detox should take place in a medically monitored setting, complete with 24 hour nursing and a medical director trained in addiction