How Long Will I Stay In A Drug Detox Center?

Updated on

Drug detox is an important part of the addiction treatment process. A person may stay in a drug detox center for a few days to a few weeks. Certain factors, including the type of drug consumed, drug metabolism, and personal health, can contribute to a person’s length of stay.

Many people begin addiction treatment at a medical detoxification (detox) center or at a rehab center that offers medical detox.

Medical detox is often crucial for people in the early stages of recovery, and it’s natural to have questions about the average length of stay.

While it can vary depending on multiple factors, the drug and alcohol detox process may take a few days to a few weeks.

What Is A Drug Or Alcohol Detox Program?

When a person suddenly stops substance use, the body will begin clearing the substance from that person’s system.

This process can cause cravings and other withdrawal symptoms, which can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, depending on the substance.

Detox treatment programs, which can include both inpatient and outpatient care, help the person manage these symptoms.

Social detox provides the client with safety, emotional support, and as much physical comfort as possible in a drug-free environment.

Medical detox provides all of the above as well as medication and 24/7 supervision from medical staff.

What Factors Will Contribute To My Time In A Detox Program?

Several factors affect how long you may spend in a detox treatment center. These factors include the type of substance used, treatment plans offered, and other components.

Type Of Drug Abuse

Different substances, including alcohol, leave the body at different rates.

Alcohol detox, for example, may take up to two weeks, with the most difficult symptoms subsiding within two days.

Some types of opioids may cause withdrawal symptoms for a few days to a week.

Drug Metabolism

Some drugs begin leaving the body within hours after the last use, while others may take several days to begin this process.

A longer-acting opioid such as methadone, for instance, will take much longer to filter out of a person’s system than a short-acting opioid.

As a result, withdrawal symptoms may take much longer to appear, which may delay or lengthen the detox process.

Health Factors

Certain personal factors can influence the amount of time it takes to detox from drugs or alcohol.

These factors include:

  • health conditions and medical history
  • metabolism
  • body mass
  • severity of the substance use disorder

These factors may also influence the amount of time a substance can be detected with a drug test.

Health Insurance Coverage

Many health insurance programs provide some coverage for drug and alcohol abuse treatment, including medical detox.

However, they generally place limits on the amount of coverage provided. For example, your insurance program may only cover up to three days in a detox treatment facility.

What Happens After The Detox Treatment Process?

Detox treatment services are an important first step in the recovery process, but these programs focus mainly on the physical aspects of drug and alcohol withdrawal.

Addiction is a mental health condition, and the best substance abuse treatment options address the psychological aspects of drug addiction.

The best detox programs introduce clients to the next step in the treatment process, typically an inpatient or outpatient program.

These programs offer treatment services such as individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and support groups.

Some programs also offer aftercare services, which provide long-term support after a person has graduated from an addiction treatment center.

Find Drug And Alcohol Addiction Treatment Today

Addiction is a difficult condition. It often requires support, healthcare services, and therapy.

If you or a loved one need detox or other addiction treatment options, contact Detox Rehabs today.

Ad

Watsonville, CA

Elevate Addiction Services

(258 reviews)

Levels of Care:

Payment Options: Insurance Accepted

View Profile
Ad

Chatfield, TX

Hidden Oaks

(3 reviews)

Payment Options: Insurance Accepted

View Profile
Ad

Canton, Massachusetts

Bedrock Recovery Center

(265 reviews)

Payment Options: Insurance Accepted

View Profile

For 24/7 Treatment Help Call:

(844) 483-0633
Detox Rehabs Logo