Detox

What is detox?

Detoxification, or detox, is the process through which your body eliminates toxins from your system. In terms of addiction, detox refers to the initial stage of recovery. During detox, you stop using drugs or alcohol, and your system clears these toxic substances from your body.

Detoxing on your own can be dangerous because substances can cause severe withdrawal symptoms as your body breaks them down. Medically supervised detox helps to ensure your safety, manage withdrawal symptoms, and prepare you for the next stages of recovery.

Is outpatient detox right for me?

Outpatient detox may be right for you if you have a stable home, and you’d like to begin addiction treatment while continuing to meet work, school, or family obligations.

Outpatient detox at Northshore Family Practice can help end your dependence on substances, such as:

• Alcohol
• Opioids
• Pain medications (oxycodone, fentanyl, etc.)
• Benzodiazepines (diazepam, clonazepam, etc.)

For patients wishing to gradually wean off opioids, Northshore Family Practice also offers medically assisted treatment using Suboxone®, Vivitrol®, and other addiction medications.

What is involved in outpatient detox?

Once you’ve made the life-changing decision to end your dependence on alcohol or drugs, the compassionate experts at Northshore Family Practice begin with a confidential evaluation. This assessment determines the extent of your physical addiction, your overall physical and mental health, and the best approach for detoxifying your body from the substance of abuse.

The detox process involves a series of extended appointments at the clinic, where the medical team provides support and helps you cope with withdrawal symptoms. They’ll also provide detailed instructions so you can safely continue your detox while you’re at home.

How long does detox last?

The amount of time it takes for withdrawal symptoms to subside depends on the substance of addiction and individual factors. Your provider will give you an approximate timeline before you begin your detox program.

Northshore Family Practice partners with The Coleman Institute to offer accelerated detox programs to qualifying patients. These programs allow you to complete your detox in as few as three days.

Remember, detox is just the first stage of addiction recovery. The caring team at Northshore Family Practice can provide recovery support, and referrals for counseling, psychiatry, and other services that help you to address the root causes of substance abuse and maintain your sobriety.

To learn more about outpatient detox, schedule a confidential consultation at Northshore Family Practice. Call today or book online.