Most alcoholics can safely detox in a social model program. Any person in the final stages of alcoholism who is hemorrhaging from the lungs, has delirium tremors, or will have seizures if the drinking stops too suddenly, or has other severe medical problems needs medical supervision. Medical detox programs use medications to detox chronic alcoholics. Most detox facilities either have their own residential programs or can arrange for residential care elsewhere. Programs vary but they typically include twelve- step work, support groups, family support, alcoholism education, and vocational counseling and assistance.
Detoxification is required for certain drugs, such as heroin and barbiturates.
Some community-based residential programs begin with a period of social detox, which can be successful for highly motivated heroin users. Medical detox is safest for barbiturate users, and this treatment usually makes the detoxification process much more comfortable for heroin users. However, space in County-funded beds, which is all many persons can afford, is extremely limited. The Los Angeles County Drug and Alcohol Information Program can explain how to get on a waiting list. Abusers are often advised to begin attending twelve step groups or otherwise working on their problem while awaiting a bed, thus demonstrating their sincerity.