The detoxification process is an essential step in the substance abuse treatment process.  A medical detox is necessary if an individual has been using or drinking for a long period of time and cannot stop alone.  The detox process removes harmful chemicals and toxins from a person’s body so that drug addiction treatment can take place.

Most California drug rehab programs offer medical detox.  The detox process differs depending on the substance abused and the severity of the addiction.  There are some programs such as Suboxone detox and Methadone detox used for heroin and prescription drug addiction.  In the case of alcohol addiction, the inpatient detox program is very effective and often necessary in order to curb the temptation or obsessive thoughts that come during the withdrawal process.  Alcohol withdrawal can last up to a few days and the alcohol detox process is a medically supervised process that can last from two days up to a week depending on the severity of the addiction.  Symptoms during withdrawal can include delirium tremens, loss of appetite, nausea, anxiety and hot and cold flashes.

Drug detox is also medically supervised and can last from a few days to two weeks depending on the severity of the addiction.  The symptoms that can happen during a medical detox from drugs can vary greatly depending on the drug used and can include nausea, increased anxiety, vomiting, headache, body aches and many other symptoms.  It is important to have a detox from drugs or alcohol take place in a supervised facility.