The detox process is one of the primary steps for addiction recovery. The process refers to abstaining from addiction for a certain period when the body clears itself of the toxic substances accumulated due to substance abuse. It is the first step towards recovery and involves discontinuing the use of the addictive substance and allowing the body to eliminate it from the system.
The duration of the detox process can vary depending on the substance, the severity of the addiction, and the individual’s response to treatment. It may sometimes last a few days to a few weeks or even longer. The focus of detox is on stabilizing the individual and preparing them for ongoing addiction treatment to address the causes of addiction and support sustained recovery.
Medication Assisted Drug Detox
Medication Assisted Drug detox treatment, or MAT, is an evidence-based approach to treating addiction that involves using medications in combination with counselling and behavioural therapies to help individuals safely and effectively withdraw from addictive substances, such as opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines. This method is more effective than other approaches like cold turkey and abrupt cessation.
MAT is a method of drug detox used in the best drug rehab for opioid addiction, as withdrawal from opioids can be particularly challenging and uncomfortable. Opioid withdrawal symptoms can be from mild to severe, which may include the following:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Insomnia
- Intense cravings
- Anxiety/ depression
The goal of medication-assisted drug detox is to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse, allowing individuals to detoxify from the addictive substance in a safe and controlled manner. In addition, this approach helps to minimize the discomfort associated with withdrawal, increases the likelihood of successful completion of the detox process, and improves the chances of sustained recovery.
Methadone in Treating Opioid Addiction in Los Angeles
Opioid addiction has become a nationwide crisis in the United States, affecting millions of people from all walks of life. Unfortunately, Los Angeles, one of the country’s most populated cities, has not been immune to this epidemic. However, the growing recognition of MAT in recent years is helping individuals overcome opioid addiction in LA. A medication that has shown some promising results is methadone.
Methadone is a synthetic opioid used in the treatment of opioid addiction. It is a long-acting opioid agonist, which means it binds to the same receptors in the brain as opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers. Still, it has a longer duration of action, allowing for once-daily dosing. Methadone is administered orally in the form of a liquid or a tablet.
The benefits of using Methadone in MAT for opioid addiction include the following:
- Reveals withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings
- Reduces depend on opioid
- Decreases the risk of overdose
- Improves health outcomes
- Reduces criminal activity associated with addiction
Methadone Treatment Resurgence in Los Angeles
Methadone treatment has been available in Los Angeles for several years and has helped thousands of individuals overcome opioid addiction. In addition, several rehab centres in LA use methadone for opioid addiction treatment. These rehab centres are regulated by the federal government and adhere to strict guidelines for the safe and effective use of methadone.
Resurgence Behavioral Health is a reputable addiction treatment centre in Los Angeles that offers methadone-assisted drug detox as part of its comprehensive addiction treatment program. Methadone treatment at Resurgence Behavioral Health follows evidence-based practices and is administered by a team of experienced healthcare professionals specializing in addiction medicine.
Evaluation process
The treatment program begins with thoroughly evaluating the individual’s addiction history, overall health, and mental health status. This evaluation helps determine the appropriate dosage and treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs. In addition, the program is designed to provide security for individuals seeking to overcome opioid addiction.
Goal of treatment
The goal is to gradually taper the methadone dosage over time while addressing any withdrawal symptoms and cravings that may arise during the detox process. The duration of the methadone treatment may vary depending on the individual’s progress and needs but typically lasts for several weeks to a few months.
Aftercare planning
Resurgence Behavioral Health also emphasizes aftercare planning as an integral part of its methadone-assisted drug detox program. A comprehensive aftercare plan is developed for each individual, which may include referral to residential treatment, outpatient counselling, 12-step support groups, and other community resources to support ongoing recovery after completing the detox process.