Alcohol Detox and RehabWhen someone is beginning the process of detox, it is essential to clear their schedule during the course of treatment. They will require the support of family and friends.The majority of the time, medications are prescribed to alleviate unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used (like diazepam and chlordiazepoxide).MedicinesThese medications are usually used in alcohol detox to reduce and ease withdrawal symptoms. These medications do not treat addiction, but they can help you get through the initial phases of withdrawal. It's important to keep in mind that you'll still require treatment for alcohol addiction despite the drug.A doctor will prescribe you the appropriate medication for your condition. This includes a thorough review of your health status and drinking habits. They will also take into account any other medications you may be taking, as well as an exhaustive physical exam. They'll then create an alcohol detox plan specific to your requirements and goals.Alcohol withdrawal can be hazardous and even fatal, particularly when symptoms such as seizures or delirium are evident. It is always recommended to seek medical attention when you attempt to quit drinking. You could be at risk if you attempt to quit completely. Do this only under the supervision of a physician or therapist.Benzodiazepines are the most common medication prescribed for alcohol withdrawal. These sedatives can be prescribed as Librium (chlordiazepoxide), and diazepam, as well as in different forms. The onset and duration of action as well as the potency of these drugs vary. Other sedatives, like barbiturates, can be used to treat alcohol withdrawal but they aren't as commonly prescribed due to their toxic effects and potential for addiction.Another drug used for alcohol detox is disulfiram. This drug works by interfering the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This causes a raging and unpleasant physical reaction to alcohol consumed while on this medication. Antabuse is the brand name of this medication.Inpatient alcohol detox programs usually require a hospital stay or other facility for care to complete the program. While this is the preferred method for many people but outpatient detox is feasible in the event that your social and home environment support systems are stable and you're able to be committed to going to a clinic or other treatment facility regularly to receive meds. Detoxing outpatient is an option for those who are less likely of relapse, and their physical and mental health is in good condition.MonitoringMany people with an alcohol addiction problem also have a mental health issue that is co-occurring. Your treatment provider will be able to monitor your alcohol and drug consumption during the treatment process. Monitoring can take a variety of forms, including self-reporting breathalyzers, urinalysis, and so on. Understanding the process of monitoring is crucial to be part of your treatment program.The first step to detox from alcohol is generally to stop drinking completely. Some people can accomplish this on their own, but the majority require medical assistance. detoxing from alcohol will evaluate the situation and suggest an approach to detox. During this process, you might receive sedatives that will calm you down and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will also monitor your vital signs and help keep you comfortable during this difficult period.Following the detox phase you'll move into the rehab phase of your recovery. In this phase, will be assisted by your treatment team to learn about the root causes of your addiction and learn new healthy behaviors. They will also help you learn to manage your addiction and how to prevent relapse.A large part of rehab is learning to cope with triggers and stressors that can lead you to relapse into drinking. You'll build a support system and learn new strategies to cope that will help you to stay clean. You'll be able to recognize the beginnings of your alcohol cravings and how to take action before things get out of control.Monitoring is a vital aspect of recovery, as it helps you to stay accountable to your goals for sobriety. It will help you track and identify the obstacles preventing your success. You can also develop your ability to cope and manage stress by interacting with other recovering addicts in an online community.You'll also need to monitor your alcohol consumption, keep track of your daily activities and eat nutritious meals to keep your sobriety. You'll also have to find a mentor and attend meetings regularly. During these meetings you will discuss your journey with recovering alcoholics, and receive support from them. These meetings are also a great opportunity to discuss any addiction issues and create an action plan.TherapyDetoxification is the initial step to overcome an alcohol addiction. Detoxification helps to break the body's dependence on alcohol by the elimination of the chemical substances that create a high following consumption of the drug. A medical professional must supervise the process. If you attempt to detox on your own can be dangerous and could even be fatal. It is important to seek outpatient or inpatient treatment at a facility which specializes in treating addiction to alcohol.Inpatient detox centers have an entire staff of medical professionals who will assess your progress and provide medications to ease the discomfort during this difficult time. The medications used during detoxification can help keep your body's chemical balance in check and decrease the chance of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines are prescribed as long-acting or short-acting medications, are the most common treatment for alcohol detox. Benzos such as chlordiazepoxide, also known as Lirium and diazepam, or Valium are prescribed to treat insomnia, withdrawal, and muscular spasms.It can be dangerous for someone who is addicted alcohol to stop drinking without an alcohol detox program or supervision. This could lead to serious health issues, such as seizures and severe water loss. Many people who try to detox on their own fall into a cycle of relapse and relapse into a cycle of alcoholics. After you have completed your detox, you can break the cycle by enrolled in an outpatient or an inpatient rehab program.The duration of your detox will depend on the severity of alcohol dependence, as well as the amount of alcohol you consume regularly. The detox process can be completed in three to ten day depending on the individual. It can also depend on your gender since women and men experience withdrawal from alcohol differently.Some people choose to go through a speedy, or rapid detox program to speed up the process. These programs can be more expensive and aren't generally covered by insurance, but they do reduce the risk for withdrawal symptoms and other medical problems during the detoxification process. Most people who undergo these types of treatments will continue to feel cravings and other mental effects once the drugs have left their bodies.SupportWhen you begin detox, your doctor will ask questions about your health and previous use of alcohol and other substances. Even if the questions seem difficult, you could be asked to answer honestly them. This information is used to help determine the best course of action for you.During detox you will be provided with a variety of medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. These medications include benzodiazepines like lorazepam, as well as anticonvulsants like carbamazepine. You might also be given antidepressants like nefazodone and antipsychotics, like Olanzapine, to treat withdrawal symptoms that are related to depression or anxiety. Relapse prevention drugs, like acamprosate or naltrexone are often used to decrease alcohol cravings.During this time, you'll be regularly checked. Your temperature, heart rate and blood pressure will be checked, as is your breathing. Your doctor will also test for any potential complications such as seizures or delirium tremens which can be very dangerous.Once the detoxification process is completed, you are ready to begin your rehab treatment. You can opt for long-term residential rehabilitation, in which you live on the campus of the rehab center; or you can opt for outpatient rehabilitation. This means that you attend therapy sessions in the morning and return home at the end of the night.There isn't any evidence to suggest that one type of treatment is more beneficial than the other one for long-term recovery. However, some people find it helpful to mix the two. It is important to remember that addiction treatment doesn't provide a quick solution, no matter which rehab program you choose. To get the results you desire, it takes patience, time, and hard work.Detox isn't always pleasant, but it's a necessary step for those suffering from AUD. You can get through this difficult period with the right support system, and then embark on a healthy, successful life in rehabilitation. Then, once you're clean you'll be able to truly enjoy everything life has to offer. Start your addiction recovery now! Click here to find out more about rehab treatment options.