What Is Drug Withdrawal Detox?
Learn about drug withdrawal, the detoxification process, what to expect, and how to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

What Is Drug Withdrawal?
One of the most challenging aspects of overcoming addiction is dealing with withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can occur when a person suddenly stops taking medication or decreases their intake, and withdrawal symptoms typically begin within a few hours to a few days after the last dose of the drug and last for weeks or even months.
Drug Withdrawal Detoxification
Withdrawal symptoms can be intense and uncomfortable, but drug withdrawal detox can help to make the process more manageable. Drug withdrawal detox is a process that helps rid the body of toxins and ease withdrawal symptoms.

Why Does Withdrawal Occur?
Withdrawal occurs because the body becomes accustomed to the presence of a drug. As a result, the body can no longer function properly when a person stops taking the medication or decreases their intake.
Symptoms of Withdrawal
There are various symptoms of withdrawal, including:
Drug Withdrawal Timelines
People often want to know how long drug withdrawal will last. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is complicated. Withdrawal timelines vary depending on the following factors:
Risks of Withdrawal
Withdrawal can be difficult, uncomfortable, and, in some cases, life-threatening. The following include common risks associated with withdrawal:
Feelings of anxiety and fear describe Cluster C disorders.
Types of Drug Withdrawal
Below are common substances that cause withdrawal:
Treatment for Withdrawal
There are several treatment options available for people suffering from withdrawal. The most common approach is to provide detoxification and rehabilitation services in a hospital or residential facility. This allows patients to receive twenty-four-hour medical care and support while they detoxify from the substance and begin the process of recovery. In some cases, medication helps to manage withdrawal symptoms.
If you or someone you know is suffering from withdrawal, it is essential to seek professional help as soon as possible.
Detoxification and Withdrawal Management
By cleansing the body of harmful toxins, drug detox can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and prepare the individual for further treatment. Additionally, detox can help identify any underlying medical conditions contributing to the addiction and provide a period of stabilization where the individual can develop healthy coping skills.
How to Prevent Drug Withdrawal From Happening
There are a few things that people can do to prevent drug withdrawal from happening, such as:
Withdrawal management is an essential part of detoxification, as it involves managing any symptoms that may arise when substance use stops or reduces. Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, so it's essential to have a plan in place before detoxing. Detoxification and withdrawal management are two critical pieces of total body health.
Medications Used for Withdrawal Management
A few different types of medications may be used for withdrawal management, some of which will be detailed below.
Catapres (clonidine)
Catapres is a medication typically used to treat high blood pressure. It can also help with withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and muscle aches.
Librium (chlordiazepoxide)
Librium is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are often used to treat anxiety and seizure disorders. Librium can help with symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.
Buprenex (buprenorphine)
Valium (diazepam)
Valium belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines work by slowing down the central nervous system and are typically prescribed for anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. Valium can help relieve irritability, insomnia, and body aches, and it can also help to reduce cravings for substances of abuse.
Ativan (lorazepam)
Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. It is also one of the most commonly prescribed medications for alcohol withdrawal management.
Methadone

Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Programs
On the other hand, outpatient treatment allows patients to live at home while they receive care. Both programs can provide treatment in individual or group settings, including medication, therapy, and other support services.4
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) are outpatient treatments that are typically more intensive than traditional outpatient care. PHPs require patients to participate in therapy for several hours each day.
Patients in a PHP typically receive individual and group therapy and medication management. Services are generally provided five to seven days a week for several hours daily.
Residential Treatment
Residential treatment programs (RTP) provide twenty-four-hour care in a structured setting. In addition, patients receive individual and group therapy, medication management, and other support services.
Get Help for Drug Withdrawal at Anew Treatment Center
Drug withdrawal can be a challenging and unnerving experience. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, and the temptation to use again can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there is help available. At Anew Treatment Center, we offer a safe and nurturing environment where you can detoxify from drugs and begin the process of recovery.
Our highly trained staff will provide twenty-four-hour supervision and support, as well as comprehensive care that includes medical monitoring, nutritional counseling, and individual therapy. We understand the challenges of drug withdrawal and are here to help you through every step. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, please call us today. We can help you get the treatment you need to start living a sober, productive life.
The Bottom Line
Drug withdrawal is not a linear process. Withdrawal symptoms can be unpredictable and may come and go over several weeks or even months. Nevertheless, with time and patience, most people can successfully detox from drugs and lead happy and healthy lives.
If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, don't hesitate to seek help, many resources are available. You can overcome addiction and lead a fulfilling life with the proper support.
Resources
- https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt29393/2019NSDUHFFRPDFWHTML/2019NSDUHFFR1PDFW090120.pdf
- https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/extended-suboxone-treatment-substantially-improves-outcomes-opioid-addicted-young-adults
- https://nida.nih.gov/news-events/science-highlight/study-highlights-effectiveness-methadone-buprenorphine
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/drug-addiction-treatment-in-united-states/types-treatment-programs
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