Medical Detox Research Paper

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Medical Detox Port St Lucie FL

Detoxification, or detox, is a method of absolving the body’s system of residual toxins. In terms of medical detox and drug treatment, detox concerns absolving the body of the remnants of drugs and, or alcohol from a substance dependent patient.

Detox is a natural process that is set into motion within 6-30 hours of last use of alcohol or drugs. The body, having become used to the substance, has learned how to work with the effects of the foreign element causing physiological changes to take place in the brain; impacting function and endorphin production. When total abstinence occurs, the central nervous system goes into overdrive in an attempt to regulate the body. Symptoms of withdrawal are the outward expression …show more content…

Medical detox – The body is tapered from the drug, or replacement drugs may be used, to safely flush the body of chemical addiction.

Inpatient – The detox and withdrawal process is monitored by medical personnel in a treatment facility. Medical detox and medicated detox are available.

Outpatient – In outpatient detox, medical staff, or pharmacy staff, administers drug replacements to taper the detox process. Medications may also be used to inhibit drug or alcohol use. One such drug is Antabuse, used for alcohol addiction. Other drug replacements used are methadone and suboxone for opiate detox. Outpatient detox is a longer process, but is a safe alternative for certain types of drug addiction.

Detox and withdrawal symptoms by drug type:

Meth (methamphetamine) - Withdrawal effects from heroin use may take months to subside, and are highly psychological and emotional. Symptoms range from anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and severe drug cravings to psychotic behavior.

OxyContin (oxycodone) -Withdrawal symptoms include: sedative effects, dry mouth, dizziness, sweating, nausea/vomiting, and seizures. The pleasure center of the brain is impacted by

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