Understanding Short-Term Addiction Treatment Risks

Rapid alcohol and drug detox should never be attempted.

It is not safe and leaves the person at very serious risk of relapse.

More importantly, it makes the possibility of accidental overdose very likely and if that happens, it can be fatal.

We are addictions clinicians, each with over three decades of experience in assessing, diagnosing, prescribing for and treating people struggling with addiction.

Here we share our knowledge with you.

Why can’t I have a rapid alcohol and drug detox?

The answer is simple: They simply don’t work.

While there are some substances where, scientifically, it is physically possible to have a rapid drug and alcohol detox, without addressing the reasons as to why you were using drugs and alcohol, a relapse is inevitable.

A rapid detox puts you at very significant risk, both physically and psychologically.

Let us explain why.

The science of rapid alcohol and drug detox

When you drink alcohol/use drugs, your brain makes adjustment to cope with their presence.

The brain will, literally, rewire itself so it can function while you continue to use.

In time, to allow the brain to continue to function while using you will need to increase the amount of drugs and alcohol you use to stay steady.

If you stop using drugs and alcohol in a hurry the brain simply will not be able to cope with the immediate change.

Incorrect chemical messaging is sent out while the brain scrambles to readjust. It is these incorrect chemical messages that lead to physical symptoms known as withdrawal.

Some of these symptoms can be distressing and some can be fatal.

Detox medication mimics the effects of the drugs and alcohol you were using so that withdrawals are mimimised while the medication is reduced over a safe period of time.

How long does a detox take?

That depends on many, many factors, including your physical health, what it is you are taking, how much you are taking and for how long you have been taking it for. Other factors, such as how you take the drug, are also important.

Ordinarily, someone who is drinking 30-40 units of alcohol in reasonable health might be prescribed a detox for 10-14 days.

While there are national clinical guidelines each patient is different.

Do all drugs of addiction need a detox?

No.

Stimulants like cocaine and drugs like Ketamine and GHB are not replaced with similar acting drugs but with adjunctive medication that will minimise withdrawals and stabilise the brain and body.

This can be just as important, and life sustaining, as a heroin or alcohol detox.

Can I just have a detox?

No.

There are no reputable addiction rehab centres that offer this because it would be very unwise.

Alcohol and drugs numb emotional responses and subdue unplesant memories.

When you are abstinent these memories and emotional responses come to the front of your mind.

If you don’t deal with them you will relapse: Fast.

Risk of accidental overdose with Rapid alcohol and drug detox

When people detox too quickly they are at extreme risk.

As soon as you stop drinking/taking drugs the brains ability to absorb drugs and alcohol diminishes.

Cravings will soon creep in.

If you give in to the cravings you are likely to use an amount you think you need to settle yourself which puts you at serious risk of a fatal, but accidental, overdose.

How can Find Me a Rehab help with Rapid alcohol and drug detox?

We are addictions clinicians each with over three decades of experience in assessing, diagnosing, prescribing for and treating people struggling with addiction.

Over the decades we have worked in the majority of the countries rehab centres.

As we are not tied to any particular service our advice is wholly impartial as well as being free and confidential.

Getting help with Rapid alcohol and drug detox

Call, email, live chat or whattsap for free, confidential and impartial advice on any aspect of detox, rehab, home detox, therapy, relapse prevention and aftercare.

We can advise you on treatment plans, treatment options, locations, costings, logistics and availability.

Only legally registered services are signposted.

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