Understanding Drug Detox Symptoms: What to Expect During Withdrawal
Learn about common drug detox symptoms and what medications can help. Know what to expect during drug detoxification.
What is Drug Detox?
Drug addiction is a complex and challenging condition. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 35 million people around the world are suffering from drug use disorders.1 Seeking help for addiction is a courageous first step on the journey to recovery.
One of the key steps in this journey is drug detoxification, commonly referred to as detox. Drug detox is a process of eliminating harmful substances from the body. It can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience.
What to Expect From Detox
In this article, we will take a closer look at drug detox symptoms and what to expect during withdrawal.
If you or someone you know is considering drug detox, it’s important to understand the process so you can be prepared.
There are potential physical and psychological drug detox symptoms you may experience. Being prepared can increase your chances of success and help you move towards a healthier and happier future.
An Overview of Drug Detox Symptoms
Drug detox symptoms are physical and psychological changes that occur during withdrawal. They are symptoms that manifest when you stop using drugs or reduce your drug use.2
These symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on several factors, including the substance being abused and your overall health.
What Impacts the Severity of Symptoms?
The severity of drug detox symptoms can range from mild to severe. In some cases, they can be life-threatening. Symptoms can begin within a few hours after the last use of the substance and can last for several days or even weeks.
Drug detox symptoms can be broadly divided into two categories: physical and psychological.
Physical and Psychological Drug Detox Symptoms
Physical symptoms of drug detox can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They also include muscle aches, tremors, chills, sweating, and headaches.
These symptoms can be very uncomfortable and can make it difficult for individuals to perform daily activities.
Psychological symptoms of drug detox can include anxiety, depression, and irritability. They can also include mood swings, agitation, insomnia, and fatigue.
Severe Drug Detox Symptoms
In some cases, drug detox symptoms can be severe and require medical attention. For example, alcohol detox can cause severe symptoms such as seizures and delirium tremens (DTs). Opioid detox can also cause severe life-threatening symptoms like respiratory depression.
It is important to note that drug detox symptoms can vary depending on the substance being abused. For example, cocaine and methamphetamine detox can cause significant psychological symptoms. These can include depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
However, these symptoms are typically less severe than those associated with alcohol and opioid detox.
Always Seek Professional Help for Drug Detox Symptoms
People who are experiencing drug detox symptoms should seek professional help. This will ensure they can manage their symptoms safely.
Medical detox programs provide a safe and supervised environment for individuals to detox from drugs. They can also provide medication and other treatments to help manage symptoms effectively.
How Long Do Drug Detox Symptoms Last?
The duration of drug detox symptoms can vary widely depending on factors such as:3
- The substance being abused
- The length of time the individual has been using the drug
- The frequency and dosage of drug use
- The individual’s overall health
Opioid Drug Detox Symptoms
For some substances, such as opioids, withdrawal symptoms can begin within a few hours after the last use of the drug. They can last for several days or even weeks. Symptoms typically peak within the first 72 hours of withdrawal.
Symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
- Tremors
- Chills
- Sweating
- Anxiety
The physical symptoms of opioid withdrawal typically subside within a week. Psychological symptoms like depression and insomnia can persist for several weeks or months.
Alcohol Detox Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal can also cause severe symptoms that can last for several days or even weeks. Symptoms typically begin within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink.
Symptoms can include:
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Delirium tremens (DTs)
The physical symptoms typically subside within a week. But again, symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and irritability can persist for several weeks or months.
Drug Detox Symptoms From Other Substances
Other substances, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, can also cause withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms typically last for several days to a week.
Symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
What Factors Affect the Severity of Drug Detox Symptoms?
Drug detox symptoms can vary in severity depending on several factors, including:
Substance Being Abused
The type of drug that an individual has been using can impact the severity of their drug detox symptoms.
For example, withdrawal from alcohol or opioids can cause severe physical symptoms. In contrast, withdrawal from cocaine or methamphetamine can cause severe psychological symptoms.
Length of Time of Usage
The length of time an individual has been using drugs can also impact the severity of their withdrawal symptoms. Individuals who have been using drugs for a long time are more likely to experience severe symptoms during detox.
This is because long-term drug use can lead to changes in the brain. This makes it more difficult for the body to adjust to the absence of the drug.
Frequency and Dosage of Drug Use
People who use drugs frequently or in high doses are more likely to experience severe withdrawal symptoms when they stop using. This is because the body has become accustomed to the presence of the drug.
Overall Health
An individual’s overall health can also impact the severity of their drug detox symptoms. Individuals who have pre-existing medical conditions or mental health issues may experience more severe symptoms during detox.
Additionally, individuals who are malnourished or have a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to the physical effects of withdrawal.
Withdrawal Management
How an individual manages their withdrawal can also impact the severity of their symptoms. Medical detox programs can provide medication and other treatments to help manage symptoms.
Individuals who attempt detoxing independently or without appropriate medical support may be more likely to experience more severe and prolonged withdrawal symptoms.
How Are Drug Detox Symptoms Treated?
There are various medications and treatments that can be used to alleviate drug detox symptoms. Drug detox symptoms can be physical or psychological.
The type of medication or treatment used will depend on the individual and the specific symptoms they are experiencing.
Here are some of the most common drug detox symptoms and how they are typically managed:
Nausea and Vomiting
These symptoms are often caused by the body’s attempts to rid itself of toxins. They can be managed with anti-nausea drugs, hydration, and a bland diet.
Anti-nausea medications, such as ondansetron and promethazine, work by blocking certain neurotransmitters in the brain that cause nausea and vomiting.
Sweating and Chills
Sweating and chills are common drug detox symptoms. They can be managed with hydration, wearing comfortable clothing, and keeping the environment at a comfortable temperature.
Anxiety and Restlessness
Anxiety and restlessness can be managed through relaxation techniques. This includes deep breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness practices. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage these symptoms.
Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and lorazepam, work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps to reduce anxiety.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a common drug detox symptom. It can be managed through good sleep hygiene practices, such as avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bed, and establishing a regular sleep routine.
Creating a comfortable sleep environment also helps. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage sleep disturbances.
Sedative medications such as zolpidem and eszopiclone work by increasing the activity of GABA in the brain, which promotes relaxation and sleep.
Muscle and Joint Pain
Mild to moderate muscle and joint pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. In some cases, prescription pain medication may be necessary.
For more severe pain, opioid medications such as oxycodone or tramadol may be prescribed. However, these medications must be used cautiously, as they can be addictive.
Seizures
Seizures are a potential risk during drug detox, particularly for those who are detoxing from alcohol or benzodiazepines. Seizures require immediate medical attention.
Anti-seizure drugs such as valproic acid and carbamazepine can be used to prevent seizures during drug detox. These medications work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.
Depression and Mood Swings
Depression and mood swings can be managed through therapy and support groups. In some cases, medication may be prescribed.
Other Treatments for Drug Detox Symptoms
Other treatments that may be used to alleviate drug detox symptoms include acupuncture, massage therapy, and exercise. These treatments can help to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall well-being.
It is important to note that medication should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional. Some medications can be addictive and lead to further problems. It is also important to have emotional support from support groups or family during drug detox.
Potential Risks of Drug Detox
It is important to understand the potential risks and complications associated with drug detox. These risks can vary depending on the individual, the drug being used, and the duration and amount of use.
Here are some potential risks and complications associated with drug detox and how they can be mitigated:
Seizures
Seizures can be a potential risk during drug detox. This is particularly true for those who are detoxing from alcohol or benzodiazepines. Medical professionals may prescribe anti-seizure medications to those at risk.
Additionally, those who are at high risk for seizures should be monitored closely during the detox process.
Dehydration
Dehydration can occur during drug detox due to sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. To mitigate this risk, it is important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks.
Electrolyte replacement drinks can help replenish fluids and nutrients lost during detox.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition can occur during drug detox due to a lack of appetite or vomiting. To mitigate this risk, it is important to eat nutrient-dense foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and vitamin and mineral supplements if necessary.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can be severe during drug detox. In some cases, there can be medical complications. To mitigate this risk, it is important to seek professional medical and psychological support during the detox process.
Medication, therapy, and other treatments can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Mental Health Concerns
Mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation can occur during drug detox. To mitigate this risk, it is important to seek professional psychological support. Make sure you communicate openly with medical professionals about any mental health concerns.
Overall, the potential risks and complications associated with drug detox can be mitigated through a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of withdrawal. It is important to seek professional medical and psychological support during the detox process.
Drug Detox Symptoms vs. Withdrawal Symptoms
“Drug detox symptoms” and “withdrawal symptoms” are two terms that are often used interchangeably. They actually refer to different stages of the addiction recovery process.
It is important to understand the difference so you can effectively manage the symptoms associated with each stage.
Drug Detox Symptoms
As we already discussed, drug detox symptoms are the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when a person stops using drugs. The goal of drug detox is to rid the body of drugs and manage the associated symptoms.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms, on the other hand, occur during the withdrawal process after drug detox. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and can last for days, weeks, or even months.
These symptoms can include:4
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Depression
- Anxiety
The goal of managing withdrawal symptoms is to help the individual cope with the discomfort and prevent relapse.
What Else to Know About Symptoms
It is important to note that drug detox symptoms and withdrawal symptoms are interconnected. Drug detox symptoms can lead to withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms can be caused by exposure to drug-related cues or stressors.
The severity of these symptoms can be affected by individual factors such as genetics and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Ongoing Treatment for Drug Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms
Treatment for drug detox symptoms and withdrawal symptoms typically involves a combination of medication and therapy.
It may also include other supportive treatments. Medical professionals may prescribe medications to alleviate specific symptoms.
Therapy can help individuals learn coping strategies for managing cravings and avoiding relapse. Supportive practices, such as exercise or meditation, can help promote overall well-being and reduce stress.
Start Your Recovery Journey at Rise Above Treatment
Now that you understand what drug detox is and why it is important to manage symptoms with the help of medical professionals, the next step is to find a drug detox program that fits your needs.
Reach Out and Begin Healing
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use disorder, starting detox might sound scary or overwhelming.
There’s no need to worry. Rise Above Treatment is with you every step of the way. At Rise Above Treatment, we are committed to helping people on the path to lifetime recovery. Our center is home to some of the brightest minds in addiction treatment.
Reach out today to learn how we can help you find a better future.
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Reach out to us today. Let us provide the support and guidance needed for sustainable recovery and wellness, allowing you to lead the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life you deserve.
Resources
- 1https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/frontpage/2019/June/world-drug-report-2019_-35-million-people-worldwide-suffer-from-drug-use-disorders-while-only-1-in-7-people-receive-treatment.html
- 2https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-withdrawal-how-long-does-it-last-63036
- 3https://www.everydayhealth.com/addiction/experts-how-long-does-withdrawal-last.aspx
- 4https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/amp/article/addiction-withdrawal-symptoms
