Methadone detox is the process of withdrawing from a substance like methadone. It can be either an inpatient or an outpatient treatment, and it will be supervised by a team of professionals. These experts will help guide you through the process, and they will also monitor you throughout the treatment.
Inpatient vs outpatient treatment
There are two main types of treatment for methadone detox: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient programs are generally shorter in duration, lasting one to two weeks, while outpatient programs can last several months. While inpatient programs are more intensive, outpatient programs are more likely to result in a long-term recovery. Inpatient programs are also more expensive and time-consuming, and can be transitional.
Outpatient treatment, on the other hand, allows patients to return home after their treatment. While this is convenient for many people, it also poses a risk. Clients are exposed to temptation in their surroundings, and they are less likely to adhere to a strict program when they are away from treatment. Still, the primary goal of both types of treatment is the same – detoxifying the patient. The methods for detoxification are slightly different, but the core principles are similar.
Inpatient methadone detox is often more expensive than outpatient treatment. For many, inpatient care is necessary for mental health issues that may co-exist with methadone addiction. In addition to receiving detoxification, patients may also need to attend counseling for mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.
Symptoms of methadone withdrawal
When you stop taking methadone, you may experience a range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms for a few weeks or months. They may be mild or severe. You may experience mood swings, anxiety, insomnia, and trouble sleeping. It is a difficult time, and you may want to consider staying on methadone treatment at a reduced dose until the symptoms subside. Your prescribing physician can discuss tapering with you.
The worst withdrawal symptoms occur within the first seven to 10 days after the last dose. The first phase of methadone withdrawal may start as early as 24 hours after your last dose, with the intensity increasing over time. You may experience flu-like symptoms, such as chills, fever, and sweating. Muscle aches and chills can also occur.
In severe cases, methadone withdrawal can be fatal, especially if the person is a heavy user. The reason for this is that the drug blocks the release of endorphins, which are natural pain blockers. Methadone blocks the pain response by telling the brain that it doesn’t need any more endorphins. It may even result in heart failure.
Recovery from methadone withdrawal
Recovery from methadone withdrawal can be difficult, and symptoms of withdrawal are often unpredictable. Some people experience depression, anxiety, and mood swings. Others experience hallucinations and insomnia. These are all signs of withdrawal. If you’re trying to quit methadone, consider getting treatment from a professional.
The withdrawal symptoms from methadone can last for several weeks or months. They may start as soon as 24 hours after the last dose. Physical symptoms may include muscle aches, chills, sweating, and fever. These symptoms may become more intense as the weeks go by. The first 10 days of withdrawal are the most difficult. A medically supervised Drug & Alcohol Detox can be a lifeline for someone who’s suffering from a methadone addiction. During the detox process, a medical team monitors the person’s physical and mental health, and helps them learn new coping skills. A treatment program may include psychotherapy or life skills workshops to help the addict cope with the withdrawal process.
