Medications are a crucial component in detox rehabilitation as they help manage withdrawal symptoms, improve patient comfort, and increase the success rates of detox completion. Both inpatient and outpatient detox can make use of medication to aid detox. They target specific symptoms, for instance, benzodiazepines are used to alleviate anxiety, insomnia, and tremors during alcohol withdrawal, while anticonvulsants prevent seizures.
Medications significantly improve a patient’s comfort and safety during detox by effectively managing withdrawal symptoms. This allows patients to concentrate on recovery and reduces the risk of relapse due to discomfort. Medications also increase the likelihood of successful detox completion.
Medications make the detox process more manageable, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful completion. This allows individuals to progress to the next stages of addiction treatment in a better physical and mental state. Medications like methadone or buprenorphine are often used beyond detox to help individuals maintain long-term abstinence.
The specific medications used in detox vary depending on the substance being detoxed from and the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Common examples include methadone, buprenorphine, and clonidine for opioid detox, and benzodiazepines and phenobarbital for alcohol detox.
Medications used in detox are not a cure for addiction. They are a tool to manage the withdrawal process and support the initial stages of recovery. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist to determine the most appropriate medications for a safe and effective detox experience.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) often extends beyond detox, with medications like methadone or buprenorphine used to help individuals stay abstinent in the long term. MAT is an integral part of detox rehabilitation, aiding in managing withdrawal symptoms and promoting long-term recovery.
Britney Elyse has over 15 years experience in mental health and addiction treatment. Britney completed her undergraduate work at San Francisco State University and her M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University. Britney worked in the music industry for several years prior to discovering her calling as a therapist. Britney’s background in music management, gave her first hand experience working with musicians impacted by addiction. Britney specializes in treating trauma using Somatic Experiencing and evidence based practices. Britney’s work begins with forming a strong therapeutic alliance to gain trust and promote change. Britney has given many presentations on somatic therapy in the treatment setting to increase awareness and decrease the stigma of mental health issues. A few years ago, Britney moved into the role of Clinical Director and found her passion in supervising the clinical team. Britney’s unique approach to client care, allows us to access and heal, our most severe cases with compassion and love. Prior to join the Carrara team, Britney was the Clinical Director of a premier luxury treatment facility with 6 residential houses and an outpatient program