Drug Detox

Medical Drug Detox vs. Rehab

by Jonathan Huttner

Medical drug detox programs and drug rehabilitation programs are not the same. There are several differences between these two types of drug addiction treatment programs including length of time and goals; however both of these programs work together to help a person achieve recovery from an addiction.

Medical drug detox is, or should be, the first step of any addiction treatment program. It is during detox that a person can safely withdraw from drugs or alcohol. In the 7-14 days of medical drug detox, certain painkillers or other medications may be prescribed to help ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure the patient's health and safety.

While medical drug detox is designed to rid the patient's body of toxins, rehab is designed to handle the underlying issues that led to the presence of those toxins and help prevent the patient from falling back into his or her addiction. Once drug detox is complete, it is recommended that patients suffering from drug addiction continue on to a rehab program. This program may take weeks or even months depending on the particular case. Many rehab programs offer group, family and individual therapy. It is in rehab that patients learn to address the reasons for their addictions and encourage behaviors of a successful recovery.

How to Find Medical Drug Detox and Rehab Programs

For an easy transition from drug detox to rehab, try to find an addiction treatment center that has both programs available. If you need help locating effective medical drug detox and rehab programs, the nationally recognized addiction helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1-800-820-5841 to speak to an addiction specialist.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the founders of Lakeview Health Systems, which has treated over 7,000 people from throughout the United States. Jonathan has been involved in the field of addiction and eating disorder treatment for the last 25 years.