Overcoming Opioid Addiction: Detox

Opioid addiction is a complex and challenging issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. However, with the right treatment approach, recovery is totally doable. For many  the first phase of opioid addiction treatment begins with stabilizing with detoxification.

What is Opiate Detox? 

Medical detoxification, commonly known as detox, is the process of safely removing opioids from the body under medical supervision. This initial phase of treatment aims to address the physical dependence on opioids and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Opioid detox services can occur at home under the care of a physician or in a specialized treatment in patient facility. At Clarity Medical Group, Dr. Sirisat Khalsa will oversee and treat all qualifying patients from the comfort of their homes.

What are symptoms of Opiate withdrawal?

Common symptoms of withdrawal may include but are not limited to:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• muscle aches
• sweating
• anxiety
• insomnia
• intense cravings for opioids

Is Opiate Detox Dangerous?

Opiate detox is typically only life threatening when there are significant underlying cardiac issues present. Although they are usually not dangerous, often times without medical intervention, these symptoms are too intense to tolerate and lead many to relapsing. The severity of these symptoms are dictated by the type of opioid taken, the amount and frequency which they are consumed, and the individuals genetic factors. Dr. Sirisat Khalsa has an established track record of guiding thousands of patients through these obstacles to treatment and is well-prepared to offer supportive care and medications, easing these symptoms and prioritizing the safety and comfort of individuals during the withdrawal process. Detox is totally doable when withdrawal symptoms are comfortable enough to tolerate.

How long do opiate withdrawals last?

The duration of detox varies based off the half-life of the opiate. This may range from 7 days to over 3 weeks. Heroin with a short half-life has the shortest withdrawal at approximately 7 days. Oxycodone, Methadone, and Suboxone are long acting opiates and have a withdrawal closer to 3 weeks. Fentanyl is a unique opiate, while it has a short half-life, it is stored in fat tissue which leads to a very long withdrawal that may last over 3 weeks. At Clarity Medical Group, we offer a comprehensive 30-day at-home detox program, providing essential medication support alongside as needed weekday appointments over a consecutive 30-day period. This program ensures a secure and comfortable detox process for eligible individuals dealing with alcohol, opioids, and other drugs.

Is Opiate addiction cured after completing Detox?

While detox is a crucial initial step, it's important to understand that it's not a standalone treatment for opioid addiction. Instead, detox lays the groundwork for ongoing treatment and recovery efforts. Recognizing the importance of addressing various aspects of an individual's health and well-being is fundamental to achieving lasting sobriety and overall wellness.

What are some options for Post-Detox opiate treatment?

After detox, some people will transfer to a lower level of care such as Residential treatment or Outpatient treatment. Others may receive additional treatment at home so they can return to their family and/or careers. At Clarity Medical Group, we are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive and continuous support throughout their journey towards complete health restoration post-detox. Our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program serves as a fundamental pillar, effectively managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, thereby promoting stability on the path to recovery. Moreover, we recognize the indispensable role of emotional support in our patients' healing process. By fostering a nurturing environment, we empower individuals to address underlying issues, develop effective coping strategies, and fortify their resilience as they navigate their path to wellness.

What additional treatments can help someone recover from opiate addiction?

Taking into account variables such as gut health, genetic predispositions, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies not only bolsters the effectiveness of treatment but also acknowledges their potential impact on susceptibility to addiction and outcomes in recovery from opioid addiction. Additionally, dual diagnosis treatment acknowledges and treats co-occurring mental health disorders, recognizing their interconnectedness with addiction. By integrating these holistic care approaches, individuals battling opioid addiction can receive comprehensive treatment tailored to their unique needs with Clarity Medical Group, promoting lasting sobriety and overall well-being.