Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone, but with a proper combination of medication and counseling, they can be overcome and recovery can begin. Although non-lethal, these symptoms can increase discomfort and might directly influence the rate of relapse. Relapse is noted as the return to the use of an addictive substance after attempting to quit.

Withdrawal from different types of substances, such as stimulants (cocaine), depressants (alcohol), and opioids (heroin), produces different side effects, requiring specialized approaches to detox. At Makana Path, we understand the physical and emotional challenges of detox, as well as substance-specific challenges, and create highly individualized detox plans that make the process as safe and comfortable as possible.

For example, fetal alcohol syndrome is a condition where the child experiences withdrawal-like symptoms without the presence of alcohol in their system. Birth defects and premature birth are common occurrences during alcohol use in pregnancy. According to the National Institute on Health (NIH), women are at a higher risk of developing a substance use disorder during their reproductive years (18-44).  

Medical detox is highly encouraged to prevent further complications with the patient. Medical detox is more well-rounded for the best care, with 24/7 support from trained staff. The medication used during detox can have lasting effects on the mother, so it’s important to find a reputable treatment program for yourself.

The challenges of substance use met with pregnancy can be a confusing time for the mother. Abruptly stopping use (or quitting cold turkey) can be just as dangerous because the stress factors of withdrawals on the body can impact the child. Detox centers are a great resource for those struggling, however, behavioral therapy should be the next step to promote healthier coping skills. This is an opportunity to dig deep and provide an alternative lifestyle for yourself and your child. Asking for help is a sign of strength, especially if you have a support system willing to listen.

Rapid detox is the process of flushing the body of addictive substances in a shorter full detox window (4-6 hours), compared to a normal detox (maximum of 10 days). The patient is sedated with anesthesia and administered naltrexone (an opiate blocker) to force the body to detox. General anesthesia is given to the patient to subdue them from the draining effects of withdrawals.  Naltrexone works by forcing the body into withdrawals by clearing the body of opioids. However, the patient may experience withdrawal symptoms, which doesn’t make the process as effective through a typical session at a detox center. 

Even after the rapid detox has been completed, the patient’s body must rest to deal with the barrage of changes happening to the body. The stress on the body can cause multiple organ failures, among other complications. People who often go through rapid detox trade one addiction for another. In comparison to a detox center, rapid detox could have side effects such as:

• Delirium
• Nausea
• Heart Failure
• Coma
• Sedative Addiction
• High body temperature
• Anxiety and paranoia

With prices varying from $2,000 to $10,000, rapid detox is not a solution for treating the root of the addiction. Rapid detox is not a safe measure to take to combat the fight against addiction. According to USA Today, six people died over a 7-year period where 2,350 patients were treated in a New Jersey rapid detox facility. 

There are currently no peer-reviewed studies that suggest the safety of rapid detox. The risks heavily outweigh the benefits of such a process. Rapid detox is not effective towards mental health issues and relapse. Those who are struggling with co-occurring disorders are not suited for rapid detox.

If you’ve successfully managed detox, finding a treatment program to fit your recovery stage is important for healing. Inpatient treatment or partial hospitalization options are available for those in need of extensive care; providing on-the-clock medical care and therapies. If inpatient treatment is not an affordable option, outpatient treatment programs are an alternative that’s adaptable to the patient’s needs. 

Education is another opportunity to develop new skills and actively participate in your development through online courses, seminars, and lectures. Counselors and group therapy sessions are available to build within your support system. Crafting hobbies in your most authentic way will help you define new coping skills and bridge the gap between others like you. It’s important to find common ground to build relationships with others who aren’t nestled in the life of former addiction.