Medical Treatments

Detoxification is the process of ridding the body of alcohol and drugs in order to restore the brains natural functions. It is usually considered as a treatment option for people with physical addictions to drugs or alcohol.

The experience of detox varies and is linked to how severe the addiction and the withdrawal symptoms might be. For example, those with a “milder” addiction may be able to detox independently and at home without the need for any medications because the physical symptoms are also mild. Whereas, those with a more “severe” addiction may require additional and specialised support in order to manage the more severe withdrawal symptoms.

Detox can be self-administered. If somebody wishes to detox independently it is important that they let somebody else know, whether that be their GP, another health professional, or their friends and family. This is to ensure they receive the support they need and to have somebody supervise them should they need to. 

Detox itself does not address all aspects of addiction, such as the psychological and behavioural components, but it does act as an important first step in the treatment process of addiction, particularly those with a physical addiction.

Medications can be prescribed by health professionals to aid the treatment of both alcohol and drug addiction. The medication given will be dependent on the particular drug the individual is addicted to.

There are a number of medications used to help treat alcohol addiction. These medications are used to help individuals at different points in their treatment. Nalmefene is used to limit the amount of alcohol someone can consume, which can help with reducing their overall intake of alcohol. Acamprosate is used to prevent relapse in people by working to reduce cravings for alcohol.

The medications for other drugs are dependent on the type of drug someone is addicted to. They work by either imitating the effects of the particular drug to reduce cravings, or by blocking the action of the particular drug, preventing it from working properly. For example, methadone is administered in moderation if someone is addicted to an opioid drug such as heroin or morphine. The methadone imitates the effects of the opioid, which helps relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms in a controlled manner. These medications are offered to help keep the person focused on treatment and not to seek out the drug they are addicted to. This is important as many drugs purchased illegally contain contaminants that can cause additional health problems.

These medications are not offered as a cure for addiction. They are prescribed by health professionals as a part of a treatment plan, in conjunction with other treatments such as talking therapies.