Alcohol detox is the process of getting rid of toxins that build up in your body after long-term alcohol use. It usually lasts for about a week.

Detoxification takes place in a safe and secure environment under medical supervision. Patients undergo a thorough drug and psychiatric assessment to build an accurate picture of their needs.

Medications

Benzodiazepines are the first-choice medication to treat alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). They are effective and safe when used for short periods of time. However, they can cause serious side effects like dependence and overdose when used for long periods of time or in high doses.

Lorazepam and oxazepam are intermediate-acting benzodiazepines with good records of efficacy. They are preferred in patients who metabolize medications less effectively, such as the elderly and those with liver failure.

Chlordiazepoxide and diazepam are long-acting agents with a longer half-life, which reduces the risk of rebound symptoms. They are preferable in patients who are at low risk of developing seizures or delirium tremens during withdrawal.

In addition to benzodiazepines, other drugs used during alcohol detox include gabapentin and vigabatrin. These drugs are thought to inhibit GABA transaminase, which reduces alcohol craving and decreases the number of episodes of rebound withdrawal symptoms. They may be given at the beginning of treatment, or as an adjunct to a benzodiazepine regimen.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT helps ease withdrawal symptoms by taking care of your mental and physical needs during alcohol detox. It also can prevent overdose and other life-threatening issues during the early stages of treatment.

Most MAT programs use medications to combat the effects of alcohol abuse and opioid dependence. These medications, which include methadone and buprenorphine, work by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain to suppress cravings for these substances.

Naltrexone, a medication that blocks the euphoric and intoxicating effects of drinking, is another medication that can be used during treatment. Administered in tablet (ReVia and Depade) or injectable forms (Vivitrol), naltrexone is most effective when used in conjunction with behavioral therapy and a comprehensive recovery plan.

Medication-Assisted Treatment is an effective and safe way to help people overcome addiction. It also makes it easier to address any underlying mental health issues that may be contributing to the addiction.

Self-Help Groups

Self-help groups provide a support network that allows you to share your experiences with others who have been in similar situations. This can help you form coping skills and strategies to keep you on track during alcohol detox.

Several organizations provide such groups, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Both have a 12-step program that encourages members to look for a higher power or spiritual foundation in their healing process.

Groups like AA and NA also focus on fostering social accountability and building a strong support network to help participants avoid relapse. They also help individuals develop a healthy lifestyle that doesn’t involve drinking or other drugs.

Many healthcare professionals recommend mutual help groups for people recovering from addiction. These include AA, NA, Smart Recovery, LIfeRing, Women for Sobriety and other similar organizations.

Support

The alcohol detox process can be painful and uncomfortable. To make the experience more bearable, doctors often prescribe medication to help ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications like seizures.

The severity of your withdrawal symptoms depends on a variety of factors, including the length and severity of your alcohol use disorder and how long you have been drinking. This is why medical supervision is always recommended when you detox from alcohol.

When you’re in treatment, it’s important to stay connected to your support team, especially if you have family members or friends who are concerned about your progress. They’ll be there to provide emotional and moral support throughout the detox process.

Getting regular sleep, eating well, exercising and managing stress effectively are also helpful during alcohol detox. They can help you focus on the future and avoid relapse. Additionally, spiritual practice is an important part of recovery for many people. It can help you connect with your higher self and gain a greater understanding of your motivation for changing.