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Medication Assisted Detox: The Controversy and the Facts

When an individual with an addiction stops using a substance, withdrawals occur and can be so severe that the person goes back to using their drug of choice to relieve the symptoms. Withdrawals can last for up to three weeks and cause the person to be physically sick. The individual feels they need their substance of choice to avoid withdrawals.   

One method of recovery which reduces the severity of withdrawals and helps the person to eliminate their cravings for their chosen substance is medication assisted detox. It has caused controversy because it replaces one drug with another to relieve symptoms of detox. Medication assisted detox can be used for meth addiction, alcoholism, and other substances.

Opioids gained popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a remedy for pain relief. During that time, not much was known about the substance being addictive. Opioids are prescribed by medical professionals every day, but people can become addicted. People who are addicted sometimes turn to other drugs, such as heroin, because it costs less than prescription medication.

Currently, we are in an opioid epidemic with overdoses happening more frequently. In an attempt to avoid more overdoses, medication assisted detox offers a more comfortable way to experience withdrawals.

Emergency response officials in various jurisdictions are able to administer a medication called Narcan, an opiate antidote to save the lives of overdose victims.   

Advantages of medication assisted detox:

  • The medication administered to the person with an addiction is supervised by a medical professional.
  • It lessens the excruciating pain caused by withdrawal symptoms. The individual feels more comfortable and is more likely to follow through with treatment.
  • It helps medical professionals monitor the effects of its use.
  • The withdrawal timeframe is reduced and can help the addict on the way to recovery.

Medication assisted detox is one of the best ways to help an addicted person move forward with treatment and recovery and avoid an overdose.

Recovery is possible and healing will take place in mind, body, and spirit. Enlightened Recovery Solutions offers a holistic based, 12-step inspired, clinically proven program for alcoholism and co-occurring disorders. Call (844) 234-LIVE today for information on our partial care programs.

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