Beginning the journey to sobriety can feel overwhelming, particularly when facing the first challenge: detox. While it may be tempting to attempt quitting “cold turkey” or trying detox at home, addiction treatment experts advise against this approach.
In this blog, we’ll discuss medical detox—also known as medically supervised withdrawal—as a safer and more effective alternative. Understanding this process can help you see why it’s a crucial first step in recovery and why it is best managed by medical professionals at certified addiction treatment centers like Sunrise Recovery.
What is Detox?
Detox, short for detoxification, is the process of clearing addictive substances and toxins from the body. Over time, the body metabolizes the drug and naturally eliminates it.
Drug metabolism involves the transformation of a substance within the body, changing its chemical composition so it can be broken down and excreted. During detox, the intoxicating effects of the substance diminish as the individual becomes sober.
The Effects of Detox
Detox serves as a key component of drug and alcohol rehabilitation, aiming to stabilize those struggling with substance dependence. However, it often comes with withdrawal symptoms, which can make the experience challenging. Due to the mental and physical strain involved, detox should be conducted under the guidance of a medical professional who can provide both medical and emotional support.
What is Medically Supervised Withdrawal?
Medically supervised withdrawal, commonly known as detoxification, is a carefully monitored process that helps individuals stop using substances they are physically dependent on, such as alcohol or opioids. The goal is to alleviate discomfort and ensure safety during withdrawal, with the duration and level of supervision tailored to each person.
This process is individualized for every patient and treatment plan. With 24/7 medical oversight, certain medications can be used to make detox safer and more tolerable.
How Long Does Detox Take?
Alcohol Detox Timeline
The effects of alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically start to subside about four to five days after the last drink, according to Healthline. For heavy daily drinkers, seizures may occur within the first six hours after stopping alcohol use, with various symptoms appearing over the following 72 hours.
Common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Upset stomach
- Nausea and vomiting
In cases of mild withdrawal, symptoms often peak within 18-24 hours. However, more severe withdrawal may involve dangerous symptoms like visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations, or delirium tremens (DTs).
For individuals with more serious addiction, the worst symptoms typically emerge around 72 hours and gradually decrease afterward. Severe withdrawal symptoms may persist for days or even weeks.
Opioid/Opiate Detox Timeline
Opioid withdrawal can cause severe physical symptoms. This drug class includes substances such as:
- Oxycodone
- Codeine
- Heroin
- Morphine
- Hydrocodone
- Hydromorphone
- Methadone
Symptoms of opioid withdrawal can be life-threatening. Within the first 24 hours of cessation, individuals may experience:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Sleep disturbances
- Uncontrollable muscle spasms (often called “the kick”)
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle aches
More severe symptoms often appear after the first 24 hours, including:
- Goosebumps
- Dilated pupils
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Elevated blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
By around 72 hours, these symptoms generally begin to lessen, and most physical symptoms resolve within a week. However, the detox timeline and experience can vary depending on factors such as:
- The specific substance used
- Duration and intensity of use
- The method of administration (e.g., injection, oral, or inhalation)
- Individual health conditions
For example, withdrawal symptoms for fast-acting opioids like heroin may begin within 12 hours, whereas withdrawal from methadone—often used to manage symptoms and ease tapering—might not start until 36 hours after the last dose.
Help for Detox is Within Reach
Taking the first step toward detox can be challenging, but it’s an essential part of the path to long-term sobriety. If you or someone you care about is ready to overcome addiction, remember that help is only a phone call away at +1 (877) 978 – 6747.
Sunrise Recovery provides medical care and emotional support to make the detox process as manageable as possible. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to guide you toward a life of sobriety.
To find a nearby facility, visit our locations page or check out our addiction recovery blogs.
