Alcohol and Drug Withdrawal in Newark, NJ

Drug and alcohol problems manifest in numerous ways, from health problems and addiction through to specific withdrawal symptoms when drug use is stopped. Alcohol and drug withdrawal can be a serious issue, with anyone who is dependent on drugs advised to seek professional treatment throughout the withdrawal  period. Alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms are highly dependent on the substance in question and can be physical-somatic or emotional-motivational in nature. Alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous if left untreated, with patients always advised to enter a professional medical detox program prior to rehabilitation.  

The Mechanics of Withdrawal

Drug dependence is typically recognized by the existence of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when drug intake is stopped. Dependence is a learned behavior maintained by neuronal adaptations, meaning that the brain compensates over time as a result of regular drug exposure. When someone stops using drugs that they have become dependent on, the brain reacts accordingly by producing specific and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Central nervous system (CNS) depressants such as alcohol, opiates, and sedatives are likely to produce physical withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use, with CNS stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine likely to produce psychological symptoms.  

Medical detox

Medical detox is the process and experience of drug withdrawal under medical supervision, typically in a detox clinic or private hospital. While it is possible to withdrawal from some substances without medical intervention, the existence of physical symptoms typically requires medical support. Medical detox is generally advised for anyone who is dependent on alcohol, heroin, morphine, codeine, oxycodone, Valium, Xanax, and other CNS depressants. Medical detox generally starts with a detailed evaluation phase, followed by ongoing medication, consultation, rehabilitation, and aftercare.  

Alcohol withdrawal  

Alcohol is an addictive CNS depressant that is known to produce a range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use or dose reduction. Common withdrawal symptoms experienced by alcohol dependent people include nausea, vomiting, hand tremors, hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens. Medications are advised to reduce the severity of these symptoms before they create additional medical complications, including benzodiazepine drugs such as Serax and Valium.

Opiate withdrawal

Opiates include the illegal drug heroin and the prescription medications oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, morphine and many others. Opiates are highly addictive, with regular abuse often leading to dependence and addiction over time. Opiate dependence is recognized by tolerance and specific withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use, including nausea, vomiting, cramps, involuntary body movements, anxiety, and depression. Medications are often needed to reduce and manage withdrawal symptoms, including the opiate substitutes methadone and buprenorphine.

Treatment after detox

Detoxification normally takes place at the outset of the drug treatment process, with medications often used to promote abstinence and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. While detox is an important part of the recovery process, it is not enough when administered in isolation. Detox should always be followed by rehabilitation programs and aftercare support measures, including long-term pharmacotherapy if needed, behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and 12-step support programs. Just give one of our friendly recovery advocates a call at (862) 930-4070.