Drug Detoxification

[Editor's note-While the editor of DrugWar.com may not agree entirely
with the 12-Step programs promoted by this drug and alcohol rehabilitation
service, he strongly believes that any and all options for breaking
free of addiction and the threat of prohibitionist repercussions
should be available to anyone and everyone who finds themselves
in the position of being addicted to some substance or other(s).
Besides, different methods work for different people, and there
is no one method that works the same for everyone. Therefore the
editor of DrugWar.com gladly makes available these advertisements
for Passages Malibu Alcohol and Drug Treatment Center.]
Although developing a drug dependency is
easy, quitting an addictive narcotic is not as easy. To completely
rid one's body of harmful drugs, and overcome the urge to continue
a drug habit, users must undergo a complete drug detoxification.
This process is extremely challenging and physically painful.
Once your body becomes dependent on a drug, a daily dose is necessary
to help you get through the day. Without the drug, your body will
respond negatively. For this reason, many drug users are unable
to completely kick the habit. On the other hand, some drug users
are able to successful complete drug
detoxification, and never touch the substance again.
Detoxification includes removing all traces
of drugs from one's body and blood stream. The process varies
for each person. However, long-term drug users may experience
more severe symptoms than a person who only recently started a
drug habit. Because withdrawal symptoms can be intense, most drug
users complete drug
rehab programs at a drug rehab center or hospital. Users with
a mild addiction may be able to detox without the help of professionals.
Of course, because the process can be very uncomfortable and physically
draining, those who choose to withdrawal without medical supervision
may experience a relapse, or be physically unable to complete
the process.
While going through a drug detoxification,
drug
users experience a variety of symptoms. These might include
mild symptoms such as abdominal discomfort (cramps, constipation,
diarrhea, etc.), nausea, and vomiting. More severe withdrawal
symptoms associated with drug detoxification include excessive
sweating (drenching), nervousness, body shakes, seizures, and
mental confusion. Long-term drug users, and persons addicted to
heavy narcotics should not attempt detoxification
without medical help. In this case, withdrawal symptoms could
become life-threatening. Fortunately, there is a variety of drugs
intended to ease withdrawal symptoms, and prevent loss of life.