Prescription medications, including painkillers, can be an important part of treatment for many health conditions. But when not monitored carefully, or when taken in a way that differs from how they’re prescribed, these medications can lead to substance use disorder (SUD). If someone develops a dependence, the first step toward recovery is often medically supervised detox. Learning how to safely detox from prescription drugs is easier with professional support and guidance.
If you or someone you love is ready to learn more about prescription drug withdrawal symptoms and evidence-based treatment approaches like the tapering technique, BrightView can help. Our outpatient SUD treatment programs provide comprehensive support without compromising your schedule. Call us now at 888.501.9865 to find out more about detoxing from prescription drugs and start medication assisted treatment in as little as four hours.
Why do you need to detox from prescription medication?
Detoxing from prescription drugs without professional assistance can be extremely dangerous due to the unpredictable nature of withdrawal symptoms and potential medical complications. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions. For example, abrupt discontinuation of certain medications, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, can lead to symptoms like seizures, extreme anxiety, or respiratory distress. Additionally, without medical supervision, there is a greater risk of relapse, which could result in accidental overdose.
Whether someone misuses or takes these prescription drugs, the brain and body rely on these medications for certain chemical processes. This is called dependence. When someone becomes dependent on a prescription drug, their brain may stop making these chemicals. Then, when someone stops taking a prescription drug, the brain and body detox the substance and go through withdrawal.
Withdrawal is a normal response to a change in the nutrients and chemicals the brain receives each day. It can also be the most difficult step in detoxing. During detox, the body processes excess waste from prescription medications while the brain rebalances and produces dopamine, GABA, and other chemicals. Withdrawal can last several days, with prescription drug withdrawal symptoms recurring or returning weeks or months later, depending on someone’s physical and mental health, drug history, and medical intervention.
What is the process to detox from prescription medication?
Like other forms of detox, withdrawal from prescription drugs can be challenging. People often feel worse before they start to feel better. That’s why it’s important to detox under the care of a medical professional who can monitor symptoms and provide support.
In many cases, medication assisted treatment (MAT) can begin right away, depending on the type of prescription drug used and the individual’s treatment plan. Always follow your provider’s guidance when starting medications like methadone or Vivitrol as part of the recovery process.
Ways to manage drug detox include:
- Staying hydrated, including electrolytes
- Gently exercising
- Eating nutritious food
- Having a support system
Stopping any prescription cold turkey without medical support can be dangerous. Talking with your doctor can help you determine a plan to lessen withdrawal and safely detox. During detox, withdrawal symptoms can make it hard to resist relapse. This means it’s especially important to have a support system at home and a drug and alcohol-free space during the initial days of detox.
A common approach to easing prescription drug withdrawal symptoms safely is the tapering technique, where the dosage of the substance is gradually reduced under medical supervision. Instead of stopping abruptly, tapering allows the body to adapt slowly, minimizing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. This technique offers a more controlled and comfortable path during the stages of withdrawal. It is often paired with counseling, therapy, or support groups to address recovery’s emotional and psychological aspects.
What are the stages of withdrawal?
Withdrawal occurs in several stages, which can vary depending on the substance used, the duration of use, and individual health factors.
Acute withdrawal often starts within hours after the last use and lasts a few days. During this time, individuals may experience intense cravings, physical discomfort such as sweating or nausea, and emotional symptoms like anxiety or irritability. The first couple of days are considered the most challenging, as the body and mind begin adjusting to the absence of the substance.
Following the acute stage, withdrawal transitions into the post-acute withdrawal phase, which can span weeks or months. During this phase, individuals may experience milder, longer-lasting symptoms, such as mood swings, sleep disturbances, or trouble concentrating. This stage is when developing coping mechanisms and maintaining a strong support system becomes vital to sustained recovery.
What are some ways to help manage withdrawal symptoms?
Several strategies can help manage withdrawal symptoms effectively. First, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support your body’s recovery by providing essential nutrients and stabilizing energy levels. Regular exercise, even light activity like walking, can help reduce stress and boost your mood by releasing endorphins. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can also alleviate anxiety and promote mental clarity.
Additionally, it is essential to seek emotional support from trusted friends, family members, or support groups. Talking to others who understand your experiences can be incredibly reassuring. Remember, recovery is a gradual process, and taking small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference. Relying on professional withdrawal management is just the first step and is a better approach to addiction treatment—but overcoming a substance use disorder doesn’t stop there.
Call today to learn more about professional withdrawal management at BrightView
At BrightView, we treat patients like people and addiction like a disease. Our compassionate staff is here to empower our patients through therapy, medication assisted treatment, and relapse prevention. We know accessibility is a key to recovery, so we take walk-in appointments and can begin treatment in as few as four hours. Our patients get the support they need in one place.
If you’re ready for a different kind of recovery, call 888.501.9865 or complete our online form to get started with prescription drug addiction treatment today.