DANGERS OF A DIY DRUG DETOX
DANGERS OF A DIY DRUG DETOX
Detoxification is the first and most critical stage of the drug rehabilitation process. Many people are unaware that the “do-it-yourself” (DIY) or “cold-turkey” approach has the potential to be deadly. In many instances, the physiological and psychological withdrawal symptoms triggered when accumulated toxins are being eliminated from the body necessitate immediate and specialized medical intervention. As a result, those who underestimate the dangers of DIY drug detox often put themselves at risk of a serious medical crisis or death.
In recent years, the demand for mandatory drug testing by employers has spurred the DIY drug detox trend. As a result, many people are turning to drug detoxification kits and DIY drug elimination remedies. Unfortunately, the unpredictable nature of the detox process is determined by a number of variables unique to the individual and as such can never be accurately factored into these unregulated kits and drug withdrawal hacks.
Drug Detoxification
An effective drug detoxification procedure systematically rid the body of toxins deposited by habituated drug use. It is designed to disrupt the repetitive drug use patterns of behavior. To be effective, however, this process must be followed by an integrative program for rehabilitation.
During the detoxification process, the body can undergo several stages that can also vary with each individual. The severity of symptoms is usually determined by the type of drugs, duration of the addiction and the physical health and mental stability of the individual.
During the initial stages of the detox process, withdrawal symptoms can be mild for some or moderate to severe for others. The severity of these symptoms can increase incrementally. In some instances, withdrawal symptoms can also escalate rapidly. Individual attempting DIY drug or alcohol detox often find themselves alone when experiencing debilitating symptoms such as uncontrollable seizures, severe pulmonary depression, heart attack or coma. These medical situations can negate the ability to call for help. Sadly, many people suffer permanent health issues or die needlessly during a DIY drug detox because of failure to get timely medical attention.
The primary objective of detoxing through a professional medical drug detox procedure over the DIY option is to…
- Prevent undue discomfort, suffering or death.
- To be in a safe and medically equipped environment with experienced and knowledgeable drug detox specialists.
- For around the clock monitoring to intercept a possible drug withdrawal crisis.
- To prevent a relapse that is often triggered by severe cravings before the detoxification process is completed.
- Prevent the escalation of withdrawal symptoms through immediate access to emergency medical care.
- To maintain emotional, psychological and physical balance.
- Ability to administer appropriate medication if necessary for physical or mental stabilization.
Detox Treatment Center, West Palm Beach, FL
An important and often overlooked aspect of DIY drug detox is the potential for a relapse. Since a drug detox does not repair neurological functions hijacked by drug abuse, it is important that the individual follow up the detox process with a program of care that addresses residual issues that often facilitate a return to substance abuse behavior.
Based on empirical evidence and information from Addiction Centers and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) drug detoxification is a complex process. As such DIY or cold-turkey drug detox is ill-advised. Further, data from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) suggest that this form of drug detoxification is also not effective for long-term recovery.
If you or a loved one is considering the DIY drug detox route, call Ebb Tide Treatment Centers today at (561) 799-3680. Our drug detoxification services provide a safe and comfortable environment that occur with around-the-clock supervision by qualified medical personnel. At Ebb Tide Treatment Centers, we strive to make our treatment program the only one you will ever need. Visit our website at.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6238a1.htm
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16118380
Ebb Tide Treatment Center
400 Executive Center Dr. Suite 209
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
561-508-8330