What Are the Effects of Detoxification?

Detoxification is one of the first procedures in drug addiction treatment. During detoxification, the body gets rid of the drugs that were taken by the patient. This should be done as early as possible. While these drugs are still in the circulation, they are still likely to exert their effects on the body. Although most drugs are eliminated from the body in just three days, there are some drugs that stay in the tissues for several years.

When the patient stops his or her use of drugs, it is likely that he or she experiences withdrawal symptoms. These are the body's reaction due to the sudden change in the components that enter the body.

Mental and emotional effects

The most evident effect of detoxification is anxiety and uneasiness. The patient also feels the excessive craving for the drugs. In trying to combat his or her desire for the drugs, the patient may be irritable and is more impatient than usual. He or she may also lack focus in the activities that are part of the treatment.

In sever cases, the patient may feel depressed and might want to isolate himself or herself from the rest of the family or from the other patients. When signs of depression are observed, the patient must be closely monitored for other critical behaviors.

Physical effects

Nausea and vomiting are the most common signs of detoxification. Other gastric disturbances may also be observed since the body is starting to adjust with the changes in the drug concentration. Muscular problems, such as rigidity and tremors, may also be present.

During the detoxification process, the patient must also be frequently observed because there is the possibility of heart attack, grand mal seizures or stroke.

Detoxification can be one of the most difficult stages of drug addiction recovery. This can cause a lot of physical and emotional pain for the patient and his or her family. In order to help handle the withdrawal symptoms, medications may be administered to the patient upon the advise of a medical professional.