M6 Detoxification in the Treatment Setting 2022

Section 1: Introduction

• Purpose of detoxification:
  • Provide a safe withdrawal from the drug(s) of dependence.
  • Enable the individual to become drug free.
  • Detox services are designed to address: the severity of physical dependence, safe and supportive withdrawal from alcohol and/or other drugs, and facilitate transitions to ongoing services (mental health services or other treatment options).
• Conditions and settings:
  • Detoxification from alcohol, opiates, hypnotics, benzodiazepines, other stimulants, and sedative-hypnotic drugs may be conducted in various settings (inpatient, hospital) as ordered by the attending physician.
  • All chemical dependencies require monitoring and treatment.
  • Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates are associated with the highest risks for severe withdrawal symptoms.
• Aim of the module:
  • Provide an overview of areas involved in detoxification in the treatment setting.

Section 1: Detoxification Definition

• Detox (Detoxification):
  • The first step in treating chemical addiction; removal of harmful substances from the system.
  • When physical dependence is present, medical interventions counter withdrawal symptoms, using medications to treat symptoms, rebuild the damaged system, and combat cravings.
  • Substitution and tapering are used for certain addictions (e.g., phenobarbital for sedative-hypnotic detox; methadone