Detoxification

Detoxification is an initial form of treatment used to eliminate toxins from the body of an individual who is physically dependent on a substance. Substance dependence may occur with regular alcohol or other drug use over a period of time. In cases of physiological substance dependence, patients will experience withdrawal symptoms during the discontinuation of substance use. Programs that are based exclusively on a medical model of detoxification attempt to minimize withdrawal symptoms with medication; in contrast, programs based on social models focus on the psychological and social support of the patient, without the use of medication. Detoxification programs often include a combination of medical and social support from physicians, nurses, counselors, and other clinicians. There are also several types of program settings, including inpatient ...