Which Substances Require Drug Detox?
Withdrawal occurs with almost any addictive substance especially those that create chemical dependence. Because of the way addictive substances affect an individual’s body, drug detox is a necessary part of recovery.
Benzodiazepine Detox
Benzodiazepines are potentially addicting prescription drugs used to treat various stress-related circumstances such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, epilepsy, and even withdrawal of alcohol. This drug class includes Valium, Xanax, Klonopin, Librium, and Ativan. The timeline of Benzo withdrawal varies and is dependent on dosage, length of addiction, and individual history.
Opiates and Prescription Pain Pills Detox
Doctors prescribe opiates for pain relief, but it is commonly abused by prescription holders and recreational users. Common prescription opiate addictions are Vicodin, Hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, oxycodone and codeine. When a person stops taking opiates, even if it is prescribed, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as pain, body aches, fatigue, and nausea. Detox can safely manage withdrawal so that the person can come off opiates gradually.
Heroin Detox
Heroin or diamorphine is an opioid and a widely used street drug, common as a cheap street substitute for prescription pain pills due to its euphoric highs. Heroin has the same symptoms of withdrawal as opioid pain pills.
Stimulant Detox
Stimulants such as amphetamines, Ritalin, and cocaine are popular and very often abused in party scenes. Many of these stimulants elevate physiological processes such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. Often, the physical and mental withdrawal effects from stimulants are the opposite of the substance’s primary effects. This means that stimulants, which usually provide mood and energy, have a period of withdrawal characterized by emotions of depression and lack of energy. One of the biggest risks during stimulant withdrawal is intense depression that can lead to suicidal tendencies.
Cocaine Detox
Cocaine withdrawal can appear under the radar at first with no true noticeable symptoms like tremors or symptoms of cold and flu. It is generally safer to withdraw from cocaine because patients are not at risk of seizures. However, it’s still important to have the guidance of medical professionals and support staff to ensure a successful recovery.