Opiate Detoxification FAQs
Opiate detox can be an intimidating prospect. Individuals who have months or years with an opiate addiction are likely to dread the prospect of quitting and going through a series of highly uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
The following frequently asked questions about opiate detoxification are designed to help demystify the process, and help better prepare the individual for what is to come during this important initial stage of the drug rehab process.
Opiate Detoxification FAQs
What types of drug addictions can be addressed through opiate detox?
Opiate detoxification helps individuals overcome the physical addiction to a number of different opiate-based drugs. Most commonly, the procedure is used to help to those with:
How long does opiate detox take to complete?
Opiate detox generally takes 1-2 weeks to complete -although this time frame may vary according to make-up of the individual and seriousness of their addiction.
Where does opiate detoxification take place?
The opiate detox process generally takes place in one of two locations: either on-site at a drug rehab facility or off-site at a dedicated detox center.
What happens if a drug rehab program doesn’t offer detox?
Because most drug rehab centers insist that detox is completed before the remainder of the program can begin, those facilities that do not offer specific detox options onsite usually can refer the individual to a nearby facility that provides the service. Once the individual has completed their treatment there, they are free to enter the main drug rehab program.
Why is it important to complete opiate detox first?
If an individual tries to enter the counseling portion of an addiction treatment program without first having gone through detox, a number of unwanted things can occur. Most prominently, the individual is simply at too great a risk for relapse into opiate use with first overcoming their physical addiction to the drug through detox. Second, it is hard to get the absolute most out of drug treatment if there are still toxins in the system.
Does detox always mean “going cold turkey”?
While most recovering addicts opt for natural detox (giving up the drug cold turkey while under the supervision of healthcare professionals) so choose medical detox. This occurs most commonly with heroin addicts, who may decide that medical detox using the synthetic opiate Methadone is a better option.
Why do some heroin addicts prefer methadone detox?
Methadone is a synthetic opiate that mirrors the effects of heroin in a number of ways. By gradually reducing the individual’s methadone dosage over time, withdrawal symptoms are greatly diminished.
Michael’s House is located in Palm Springs, California and offers luxury residential drug rehab for individuals who have developed an opiate addiction. From detox right on through to the aftercare process, Michael’s House provides caring, comprehensive addiction treatment for individuals and their families. For more information, contact Michael’s House today.
