Detoxification is the stage of treatment in which, with medication and medical supervision, physical dependence on a substance is removed and the withdrawal syndrome that appears when you stop using it is kept under control. It is an important first step, but it is not the whole treatment: afterwards, the causes and habits linked to using need to be worked on.
What detoxification is
When the body gets used to a substance, withdrawing it suddenly causes physical and psychological discomfort that can range from unpleasant to dangerous: this is withdrawal syndrome. Detoxification uses medicines prescribed by a doctor to get through that stage safely and with as little suffering as possible.
It is worth distinguishing between two types of dependence:
- Physical dependence: the body needs the substance to function normally. This is what detoxification addresses.
- Psychological dependence: intense urges to use (craving), routines and triggers. This is worked on during the habit-breaking stage, with psychotherapy and ongoing support.
The most common withdrawal symptoms
They vary according to the substance, the amount and how long it has been used. In general:
- Alcohol: shaking, sweating, anxiety, insomnia and nausea. In severe cases, seizures or a state of confusion with hallucinations can occur.
- Benzodiazepines and other sedatives: anxiety, insomnia, irritability and, with heavy dependence, a risk of seizures.
- Opioids: muscle aches, sweating, diarrhoea, yawning and restlessness. It is a very unpleasant condition that is best treated with medical support.
- Cocaine and other stimulants: tiredness, low mood, sleep disturbances and a strong urge to use.
If there is dependence on alcohol or benzodiazepines, they should not be stopped suddenly without medical supervision. A professional must assess how to do it safely.
Does everyone need detox?
No. Some patients do not need it, and each situation is looked at individually: the substance, how heavy the use is, the person’s state of health and previous attempts all play a part. At the free first appointment we assess whether it is needed and in what form.
Outpatient detoxification
This is done without admission. The person takes the medication prescribed by the psychiatrist in their own home, supervised by a responsible person, usually a family member. At FSC, the psychiatrist at the SAP (Psychosocial Care Service) who prescribes the medication also supervises the process.
It is usually an option when the person is physically stable, has support at home and can attend follow-up appointments.
Hospital detoxification
This is reserved for the most serious cases: when a higher level of containment is needed or when the person’s physical health calls for strict medical supervision. At FSC, these admissions take place in public hospitals or private clinics with which the foundation has an agreement, and always under the coordination of its team.
How long detox lasts
As a guide, detoxification lasts approximately two to four weeks. The exact time depends on the substance, the degree of dependence and how each person responds. The first few days are usually the hardest; after that the physical symptoms gradually ease, although the urge to use can last considerably longer.
What comes after detox
Completing detox does not mean you have overcome the addiction. Without further treatment, the risk of using again is high. That is why it is usual to continue with:
- Outpatient treatment, with individual and group psychotherapy, check-ups and medical follow-up.
- Admission to a residential therapeutic centre, when the situation requires it. You can find out about them in treatment centres.
An important warning: after a period without using, the body’s tolerance to the substance is lower. Going back to the amounts taken before can cause an overdose, especially with opioids or when mixing depressant substances such as alcohol and tranquillisers. If you would like to understand the whole process, read how addiction is treated.
When to ask for help
- You have tried to stop and the discomfort makes you use again.
- You notice shaking, sweating, intense anxiety or insomnia when you go hours without using.
- You drink alcohol or take tranquillisers every day and want to stop: do not stop suddenly on your own.
For guidance, call +34 93 424 04 00; guidance is free of charge. If seizures, confusion, hallucinations or chest pain appear, call 112, the European emergency number.
Frequently asked questions
How long does detox last?
Approximately two to four weeks, depending on the substance, the degree of dependence and how each person responds. It is only the first stage: afterwards it is advisable to continue with treatment to break the habit.
Can detox be done at home?
Yes, in some cases. In outpatient detoxification the person takes the prescribed medication at home, supervised by a family member or another responsible person and followed up by the psychiatrist. If the case is serious, hospital admission is recommended.
Can I stop alcohol or tranquillisers suddenly?
If there is dependence, not without medical supervision. Withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines can cause serious complications, such as seizures. A professional must assess how to do it safely.
Does detox cure addiction?
No. It removes physical dependence, but it does not address the causes, the habits or the urge to use. That requires further treatment, either outpatient or residential.
Do you always have to detox before starting treatment?
No. Each case is assessed, and some people can go straight into treatment without going through this stage.