Is Home Detox Safe?
It is important to point out the difference between a do-it-yourself home detox and a medically supervised home detox. In nearly all cases, attempting to endure withdrawal symptoms at home without professional or medical support is never recommended. Some substances have particularly dangerous withdrawal symptoms, including alcohol, stimulants, and benzodiazepines. Attempting to detox at home from these substances without medical supervision can actually be life threatening, and will most likely be halted as withdrawal symptoms become intolerable.
A medically supervised home detox, in contrast, involves the detox and withdrawal process being closely monitored by a physician, who is a board certified addiction specialist, and managed by a trained detox nurse. Withdrawal symptoms will be observed and medication provided as needed over the entire detox period.
In addition to the medical support, a home detox team is trained to provide the emotional support needed. Psychological withdrawal symptoms can be as difficult to endure as the physical symptoms, so it helps to have someone available trained to offer emotional support. With these interventions, the home detox team can stabilize the individual, both physically and emotionally, and prepare him or her for transitioning into active treatment immediately following detox.
Professional detox services make a home detox a safe option. A medical home detox offers a high standard of care and specialized training that ensures timely medical interventions. The detox team will supervise all phases of the detox, with ongoing communication with the supervising physician as the detox proceeds.
