One of the biggest challenges an individual will face when overcoming drug addiction is getting through detox. This is primarily due to withdrawal. Unpleasant withdrawal symptoms occur during detox, making a person want to go back to doing drugs. Fortunately, withdrawal management can be used to reduce symptoms and minimize the risk of relapse. But what exactly is involved in the process? This article will answer the question, what is withdrawal management, so you know if the program is right for you.
What is Withdrawal?
Withdrawal occurs during the drug detox process. The body becomes so used to having drugs in its system that it can not function normally without them. It begins to produce unpleasant mental and physical symptoms.
The symptoms that occur will vary depending on the type of drug you are detoxing from, but some common ones include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and other digestive issues
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Sweating
- Changes in appetite
- Muscle pain
- Restlessness
- Fatigue
- Congestion
Symptoms may be worse and last longer depending on how much of the drug you used and how long you were addicted. They will usually set in 4-8 hours after you last used the drug and peak after 24-48 hours. Then they will start dissipating and should go away completely within ten days to 2 weeks. In rare cases, they may last longer.
What is a Withdrawal Management Program?
Many people relapse during the detox process because they know that going back to doing drugs will relieve symptoms short term. That’s why many rehab facilities offer a program for the management of withdrawal symptoms. The medical staff oversees the patient to keep them as comfortable as possible and ensure they don’t relapse.
A withdrawal management program will use a variety of strategies to minimize symptoms. They will ensure the patient is in a comfortable environment. They may recommend soothing activities like yoga and meditation. They can also use medications to keep symptoms under control.
What is the Importance of a Medically Managed Withdrawal?
Medically managed withdrawal is essential because it is a scientifically proven way to handle symptoms. It helps patients keep cravings under control, so they are less likely to relapse.
There are many medications that may be used in medically managed withdrawal. These include:
Buprenorphine and Methadone: Often used to treat opioid addiction, these are less powerful opioids that are not as dangerous as others on the market. They reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Anti-Nausea Medications: These reduce nausea associated with withdrawal.
Antipsychotics: Antipsychotics address hallucinations and delusions that occur during withdrawal. They can also benefit people who use drugs and alcohol to self-medicate schizophrenia, dementia, or bipolar disorder.
Benzodiazepines: Benzos are sedatives that reduce irritability and restlessness and promote sleep.
Disulfiram: This medication decreases alcohol cravings by producing unpleasant physical effects when alcohol is consumed.
Modafinil: Modafinil promotes feelings of wakefulness, reducing feelings of fatigue during withdrawal.
Naltrexone: This drug blocks the euphoric effects of opioids, helping to reduce cravings.
Suboxone: Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. It reduces opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Subutex: Subutex contains buprenorphine and minimizes opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Vivitrol: Vivitrol is a form of injectable extended-release naltrexone that reduces pleasurable feelings produced by alcohol and opioids.
How to Find a Withdrawal Management Program in Malibu, CA
There are many rehab facilities that offer rehab and medically managed withdrawal and addiction treatment in Southern California. But how do you know which program is right for you? You must consider the atmosphere, the staff, the treatments offered, success rates, and more.
You can research for hours trying to find the ideal recovery center, or you can start by contacting Rise in Malibu. You will find we check off all the boxes.
Rise in Malibu is an innovative luxury rehab in Malibu offering private en-suite rooms with majestic ocean views. We work out customized treatments for our patients, taking a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously treats addiction and its underlying causes. We live up to the highest standards and have been accredited by the Joint Commission.
Don’t let withdrawal symptoms get in the way of your recovery goals. Contact Rise in Malibu today. We will ensure you get the assistance you need to reach a higher quality of life.
