OUTPATIENT DETOX

While this process tends to be the most common route of recovery, outpatient detox is an alternative option that might be preferred for some individuals. Whereas most detox programs are considered inpatient treatments and require the individual to reside in a detox facility for the duration of detoxification, outpatient detox is much like an outpatient treatment program, allowing individuals to continue to live at home while regularly commuting to a treatment facility in order to receive detox treatments. In outpatient detox programs, individuals suffering from dependency might receive medications in order to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

  • Medications that are most often prescribed for withdrawal of Opiates are Suboxone and Buprenorphine.

  • Medications that are most often prescribed for withdrawal of benzodiazepines are Buspirone, Flumazenil, and Acamprosate. These non-addictive drug helps to relieve anxiety, a symptom that is very closely tied with the stoppage of benzodiazepines.

  • Medications that are most often prescribed for withdrawal of alcohol are Gabapentin, Baclofen, Valium, Diazepam, Chlordiazepoxide, and Clonidine to name a few.

In the first visit of an outpatient detox program, individuals often undergo a comprehensive physical exam, which allows the presiding physician to determine one’s level of health and assess individual needs during the outpatient detox period. We use drug testing as an objective measure of treatment efficacy and a tool to monitor patient progress.

Naltrexone (Vivitrol) –VIVITROL is given as a monthly injection and blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. This helps patients prevent relapse while they focus on counseling. Patients must detox before starting Vivitrol.