Drug detox works by getting rid of the poisons and toxins in your body. Most people choose to go through a drug detox because of the discomfort and danger often related to withdrawing from certain drugs. For example, alcoholics almost always need medicated assisted drug detox because of the dangers associated with detoxing from alcohol. The US Department of Health and Human Services stipulates 3 phases of detoxification: evaluation, stabilization, and guiding patients toward inpatient drug rehabilitation.
Drug Detox Phase 1: Evaluation
Addicts and alcoholics are first evaluated by a doctor. The most important questions are:
- What drugs have you been using?
- How long have you been using them?
- How much do you use?
- How often do you use?
The evaluation also asks about any other health concerns like allergies, medications etc. In order for drug detox to be most effective the doctors must have as much information as possible.
Drug Detox Phase 2: Stabilization
Once patients are evaluated the process of stabilizing them begins. They will start detoxing and may experience withdrawals. The time that it takes to stabilize a patient varies depending on the type of substance they were abusing and how often they used.
Drug Detox Phase 3: Transition to Inpatient Drug Rehab
Once the patient has stabilized they are transitioned into an inpatient drug rehab setting. In the inpatient drug rehab they will dig deeper into the reasons why they were abusing substances. They’ll work on a plan to stay sober.
