Detoxification may be residential or community based. A risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, such as epileptic fits or extreme agitation. Deficiencies in the home environment, such as inadequate support or the influence of other drug users. Person is currently residing in a crisis shelter. Failed 'community detoxification'.
Residential detoxification can be medical or non-medical.
Indications for residential medical detoxification include a history of severe withdrawal fits, coexisting medical problems such as heart disease, multiple drug and alcohol dependencies, or failed non-medical residential detoxification. Residential medical detoxification services are reducing and emphasis on community detoxification is increasing. Tranquillising medications and other treatments such as methadone are available in medical detoxification centres. Basic medication such as vitamins may be given. It is generally easier to access non-medical than medical residential detoxification.