How Long Does Detox Take?
The length of detox depends on several factors, including the substance used, the severity of dependence, individual health conditions, and whether medical supervision is provided. Generally, detox follows this timeline:
- Alcohol: Withdrawal symptoms begin within 6–12 hours after the last drink, peak around 24–72 hours, and can last up to 7–10 days in severe cases.
- Opioids (Heroin, Oxycodone, Morphine, Fentanyl, etc.): Symptoms start within 8–24 hours, peak around 48–72 hours, and usually resolve in 4–10 days.
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Valium, etc.): Symptoms can begin within 1–4 days, peak at 2 weeks, and may last for several weeks or even months for heavy users.
- Stimulants (Cocaine, Methamphetamine, etc.): Symptoms usually start within a few hours to a day, peak in 2–4 days, and can last up to 1–2 weeks.
- Marijuana: While physical withdrawal is mild, symptoms like irritability and insomnia can last up to 2 weeks.
- Synthetic Drugs (K2, Bath Salts, etc.): Detox varies widely based on the substance but can last from days to weeks.
Medical supervision is often recommended for detox, especially for alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, where withdrawal can be severe or life-threatening.
What is Detoxification?
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who has been drinking heavily suddenly stops. Symptoms can range from mild anxiety and tremors to severe complications like delirium tremens (DTs)—a dangerous condition that includes hallucinations, seizures, and confusion.
Common Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal:
- Shaking or tremors
- Elevated blood pressure
- Sweating and rapid heartbeat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Insomnia or nightmares
In our detoxification setting, we offer round-the-clock medical care to manage these symptoms and ensure safety throughout the detox process. This includes medication support, hydration, and nutritional care under licensed clinical supervision.
How Drug Detox Works
Drug detox is the medical process of clearing toxins from the body caused by prolonged drug and alcohol addiction. At Purposes Recovery, we use a safe, structured approach to help clients manage withdrawal effects from substances such as opioids, stimulants, or benzodiazepines.
Detox is often the first step in a larger substance abuse treatment plan. For clients with opioid use disorder, we may incorporate medications and 24/7 monitoring to reduce cravings and prevent complications.
Key Components of Drug Detox:
- Medical detoxification in a licensed medical facility
- Individualized support for each mental health condition
- Coordination with long-term treatment providers
Our approach follows a medical model—addressing both the physical and psychological components of substance withdrawal while preparing clients for the next phase of recovery.
What to Expect During Drug Detox
Drug detox can look different for everyone, depending on the substance used, length of use, and overall health. While some people experience only mild symptoms, others face intense cravings or emotional distress due to psychological dependence.
At Purposes Recovery, we focus on supportive care to help clients feel safe, stabilized, and empowered from the very beginning.
Our Drug Detox Approach Includes:
- Clinical assessment and customized detox plan
- Emotional and psychological support during withdrawal effects
- Access to inpatient treatment for those needing a higher level of care
- Optional family therapy to rebuild trust and connection during early recovery
We also collaborate with mental health professionals to address co-occurring mental health conditions, so healing can happen on every level—physical, emotional, and psychological.
Can I Detox at Home?
Detoxing at home can be risky and, in some cases, life-threatening without medical oversight. Suddenly stopping substances like alcohol can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and extreme dehydration, which require urgent medical attention.
Professional detox programs provide a safer alternative, with inpatient and outpatient options available. For those with severe dependence, inpatient detox is often the best choice, as it offers 24/7 medical supervision and support to manage withdrawal safely.
Treatment Programs and Support Systems
Detox is just the first step. Ongoing recovery often involves structured treatment programs, peer support, and mental health counseling.
At Purposes Recovery, we encourage clients to engage with:
- Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery
- Individual and group therapy sessions
- Relapse prevention and recovery process planning
We align with recommendations from trusted organizations like the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and tailor treatment to your specific needs—whether you’re addressing alcohol use disorder, substance abuse, or dual diagnosis conditions.
The Detoxification Process
Detox is a personalized process that varies based on individual needs. It helps individuals safely manage withdrawal while preparing them for ongoing treatment. The process typically includes three key steps:
Evaluation
Upon admission, medical professionals assess the individual’s physical and mental health. Blood tests are conducted to measure drug levels, helping determine the appropriate course of care, including the need for medications to ease withdrawal. A full review of medical, psychiatric, and substance use history guides the development of a long-term treatment plan.
Stabilization
During this phase, patients receive medical and psychological support to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Medications may be prescribed to reduce discomfort and prevent complications. The primary focus is ensuring the patient remains stable and secure throughout detox.
Transition to Treatment
The final step involves preparing the individual for continued care. Medical staff provide guidance on the next phase of recovery and what to expect in treatment. Inpatient rehab is often recommended for the best long-term outcome.
What Are The Side Effects of Detox
Detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be physically and emotionally challenging. Without medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can become severe and, in some cases, life-threatening. This is why medically supervised detox is strongly recommended, as it provides a controlled environment where patients can be monitored and supported. The level of supervision varies between inpatient and outpatient detox programs, with inpatient care offering round-the-clock medical attention.
While medical detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms, some effects may still occur. Common side effects include:
- Anxiety or
- nervousness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea
- Muscle aches and discomfort
- Mood fluctuations
- Fatigue
- Trouble focusing
Why Choose Purposes Recovery for Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles, California?
Our addiction program in Los Angeles, California, is distinguished by its dedication to personalized care, utilizing evidence-based behavioral therapy and a skilled team of passionate professionals committed to your well-being. At Purposes Recovery, we prioritize your individual needs and goals, crafting a tailored, comprehensive addiction treatment plan that embraces your unique path to recovery.
When you choose our addiction treatment center for drug rehab services, you’re choosing a partner in your addiction treatment journey dedicated to helping you achieve lasting recovery and reclaim your life. Our compassionate team of experts provides unwavering support, guidance, and resources to empower you to overcome substance use disorder and thrive in recovery.