What is a Medical Detox?

It's a great question. A medical detox is a managed detox from alcohol and or other drugs, and they are for people who are addicted. They are pain-free, and in the case of opiate drugs like heroin, Vicodin, codeine, and other similar drugs, Suboxone is used to alleviate the physical withdrawal pains associated with removing the drug(s) from the person's system. This medication blocks the effects of illicit opiate use and decreases the cravings that will surely follow.

When a drug addict has been using for an extended period of time, their body becomes accustomed to managing with it. Well, to a degree at least. Opiates tend to recreate chemical responses in the body. In many cases, the brain begins to respond differently to pleasure and pain, obsession for the drug becomes first and foremost.

Finding a medical detox program that understands the importance of treating the individual overall and not just the symptoms, is important as well. Detoxification exclusively is not a sufficient way to stop using alcohol or drugs in the long term. If long-term abstinence is the goal, then following up with a residential treatment of up to 90-days is highly recommended.