Opioid Detoxification-Identification and Treatment

Detox is the process that compels the body to get rid of any harmful product from your system. Most of this process is carried out by the liver. It is usually implemented by following the restricted diet usually composed of vegetables and fruits.

What are Opioids?

Opioids are drugs that are used to depress the nervous system of your body. They used to halt the interactions between the brain and the body by suppressing the nerves. They are commonly used as painkillers, either synthetic or non-synthetic.

Opioid addiction

Dependency on opioids for the long term leads to addiction which is a multifaceted psychological and social issue with comprehensive and long-term results for the person himself, his/her family, and for the community. Medical complications associated with opioid addiction are;

• Liver cirrhosis
• Bacterial endocarditis
• Tuberculosis
• Hepatitis
• HIV infection

Opioid detoxification

For opioid-dependent people, detoxification should be available as a first-hand possible therapy option. The detoxification is carried out to take out the excess amount of the drug which is accumulated in the body to regain health and body equilibrium. 

The changes in the dosage and potency of opioids may lead to disruptions in normal body functioning which may lead to lethal effects.

Process of Detoxification

To start the detox therapy, the staff should inform the patient about the whole process of detoxification and the accompanying risks, including: 

• Aspects of opioid withdrawal, either corporeal or mental issues, such as time and severity of symptoms, along with their management
• Non-medical therapy for the management of the opioid withdrawal symptoms
• Following detoxification, the loss of the opioid forbearance
• Significance of continuous provision of medical and non-medical treatment to maintain the self-tolerance, treat the associated mental health issues, and lessen the chances of adverse consequences.

Pharmacological approach for detoxification

As an initial therapy in opioid detoxification, Methadone or buprenorphine should be served. Before the start of the treatment, medical personnel should consider the maintenance treatment taking by the patient. If the patient is taking it, then the medication should be the same as the initial step of the opioid detoxification.

Ultra-rapid detoxification

To avoid lethal effects, Ultra-rapid detoxification should not be considered especially underneath the heavy dose for sedation or general anesthesia.

Opioid withdrawal

Opioid withdrawal can be

• Minor
• Moderate
• Moderately severe
• Severe

What are the symptoms of opioid withdrawal?

The initial symptoms that appear within 24hours of discontinuation of drug usage include; 

• Restlessness
• Muscular pain
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Flu
• Lacrimation
• Profuse sweating

The severe symptoms may arise after 1-2 days which include;

• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Goosebumps
• Tachycardia
• Emesis
• Blurred vision
• Hypertension

Statistical data of Opioid abuse

Even though opioids are very potent drugs to treat body aches, especially in post-operational therapies, but they may make your body dependent on them and lead to addiction after long-term use. In the USA, almost 2.1 million people and between 26.4 and 36 million people are abusing drugs in the rest of the world. Los Angeles detox centers for in-patient and out-patient are started to help your body systems to regain health.

Opioid Detox centers

At detox centers in Los Angeles, there are opioid addiction treatment areas where you may receive medical assistance to overcome the discomfort caused by cravings. Detox Los Angeles is working day and night to help the patients to relieve the withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision and counseling.