Medical Detox in Indianapolis, IN – (317) 550-1509

Addiction, like many diseases, has an impact on the way the body functions and the brain works. Through medical detox, these changes can be addressed in a safe way, so that the brain and body can function normally, and those suffering from addiction can get on the path to recovery.

Why Is Medical Detox Used?

Medical detox is the process of eliminating drugs and alcohol from the body in an environment that is controlled by a medical team. The purpose of medical detox is to treat physical dependence or the brain and body’s need for a specific substance.

When a person is physically dependent on drugs and alcohol, he or she can experience unpleasant symptoms called withdrawal when the use of the substance is discontinued. The symptoms occur as the body reverts to normal and can last a week or longer. Trying to endure symptoms of withdrawal on one’s own can be impossible or even dangerous.

Medical detox allows the body to transition to normal functioning without drugs and alcohol while ensuring that the person going through the changes is kept safe and comfortable. During detox, medications, and natural remedies can be given to the person to ease withdrawal symptoms and keep the body and brain functioning properly. At the end of detox, the individual is ready to continue on with recovery and get help for addiction that will help them be better able to remain clean and sober for the long term.

The Process of Medical Detox

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration cautions that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to detox that will be universally effective. For best results, each person in detox requires a unique treatment plan that includes the following stages:

Evaluation. During the evaluation, a full drug and alcohol screening and physical and mental health assessments are performed to uncover a person’s individual needs. The detox team creates a customized plan of treatment using information that is acquired during the evaluation.

Stabilization. Stabilization is the process of using interventions to help keep an individual comfortable and supported while his or her body acclimates to functioning without drugs and alcohol.

Transition to Treatment. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recommends that medical detox be followed by treatment for the mental and emotional components of addiction. An effective detox program will guide individuals into the next stage of treatment for addiction to explore their past history of drug abuse and learn strategies to help them resist the urge to use drugs and alcohol in the future.