When suffering from alcohol addiction, detox is the first step in the recovery process. But alcohol detox is not something to do at home, as withdrawal can be unpredictable and dangerous.
When medically supervised, the detox process is significantly safer and more comfortable. This blog outlines the steps during alcohol detox and outlines a typical timeline.
What Is Alcohol Detox?
Alcohol detox is the process of removing alcohol from the body and managing the withdrawal symptoms that come with it. It serves to stabilize the body after someone has grown dependent on alcohol and prepares the individual for addiction treatment programs.
While detox is the crucial first step in the recovery process, it is different from full addiction treatment. Alcohol detox is a short-term medical process that focuses on safely managing withdrawal symptoms after an individual stops drinking. Addiction treatment programs are long-term and involve therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention.
Why Medical Detox Is Recommended for Alcohol Withdrawal
Detoxing under medical supervision is recommended for many reasons. Mainly, serious and sometimes fatal complications can occur when detoxing from alcohol at home.
Complications include:
- Risk of seizures
- Risk of delirium tremens (DTs)
- Cardiovascular complications
Close monitoring by professionals during the detox process helps reduce the risk of these complications and keep the patient safe.
Step 1: Intake and Medical Evaluation
Before detox can begin, a medical evaluation must be performed in order to determine specific needs and risks.
Comprehensive Health Assessment
During this intake, patients will be given a comprehensive health assessment that usually includes:
- Drinking history
- Prior withdrawal symptoms
- Medical conditions
- Mental health screening
This will determine the level of detox needed and if any medication is necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal Risk Assessment
This additional assessment measures the severity of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome and allows medical professionals to accurately treat symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications.
Step 2: Stabilization and Withdrawal Monitoring
Once the initial assessments are completed, medically-assisted detox begins. Professionals will monitor patients’ vitals during this stage and watch for signs of dangerous complications. As symptoms arise, these medical professionals will help the patient manage the effects of alcohol withdrawal.
During detox, it is crucial to maintain hydration and proper nutrition. Special nutrition support is offered during detox to help patients manage withdrawal symptoms, counteract nutrient deficiencies, and protect organ function.
Step 3: Medication Support During Detox
Sometimes, alcohol detoxification requires FDA-approved medication in order to manage severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Professionals will evaluate symptoms as a patient detoxes, determining if medication is needed.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are the most common drugs used to treat alcohol withdrawal, as they act on the brain’s same GABA receptors that are triggered by alcohol use. This eases withdrawal symptoms and relaxes the body during alcohol detoxification.
Typical benzodiazepines used in alcohol detox include:
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
These medications are used to:
- Prevent seizures
- Calm the central nervous system
- Reduce anxiety
- Alleviate nausea
Gabapentin
Gabapentin is a non-addictive option for managing mild alcohol withdrawal. It stabilizes brain chemistry and reduces cravings, without heavy sedation.
This medication is used for managing mild symptoms such as:
- Anxiety and insomnia
- Mild tremors
- Muscle cramps
- Cravings
Supportive Medications
Over-the-counter medications may also help relieve mild withdrawal symptoms. These are preferred, as other medications can be addictive or have unwanted side effects.
Medical professionals may prescribe OTC medications during detox for:
- Nausea relief
- Blood pressure management
- Sleep stabilization
Always seek professional advice before taking any medication during detox.
Alcohol Detox Timeline
For those suffering from alcohol use disorder, withdrawal symptoms can be immediate and severe. Detoxing under medical supervision will ensure safety and reduce the risk of fatal complications.
First 6–24 Hours
The first 6-24 hours after the last drink are when early withdrawal symptoms begin. These can include:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Tremors
- Headaches
- Insomnia
24–72 Hours
After 24 hours, symptoms intensify. It is common to experience:
- Hallucinations
- Racing heart
- Increased blood pressure
- Confusion
The first 48 to 72 hours after a drink are the most dangerous, often increasing the risk of a seizure.
48–96 Hours
At this point in the timeline, Delirium Tremens (DTs) can occur. These are life-threatening and are accompanied by fever, agitation, extreme confusion, and seizures.
5–7 Days
This final stage in the detox timeline is when acute symptoms begin to resolve. Medical professionals will continue to monitor patients in detox and ensure stabilization.
Managing Alcohol Detox Symptoms
Besides medication, there are ways to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
- Drink plenty of electrolyte-infused water
- Take a cold shower
- Prioritize nutrition
- Practice breathing techniques
- Gentle exercise to release endorphins
What Happens After Detox?
Detox alone is not treatment. Transitioning into a residential or outpatient treatment facility can ensure the cycle doesn’t continue.
During treatment, personalized therapies will help identify the root cause of the addiction and provide tools to prevent a relapse. Group support allows for accountability and helps individuals relate to others in similar situations.
Signs Someone Should Seek Alcohol Detox Immediately
While having an occasional drink isn’t grounds for major concern, there are several signs to look for that indicate someone should seek immediate help.
- Drinking daily or heavy amounts of alcohol
- Previous withdrawal symptoms
- Shaking, sweating, and anxiety after stopping alcohol
- History of seizures or DTs
How Into Action Recovery Supports Alcohol Detox
At Into Action Recovery, our medically-supervised detox programs are designed to help you safely detox from alcohol and other substances. We monitor patients as they detox and assist with personalized withdrawal management. Our medically-supervised detox provides a safe transition into ongoing addiction treatment.
Alcohol detox can be life-threatening. Don’t wait until symptoms become dangerous. Contact us today and ensure the safest detox experience for you or a loved one.
