During Detox
The most effective way to overcome alcohol addiction is through medical supervision at a treatment facility. The first step on the road to recovery is alcohol detox. This process begins as early as 48 hours after having your last drink. The side effects can vary and include dehydration, seizures, hallucinations and cardiac complications.
Each patient will receive personalized care and attention from medically trained professionals. A medically assisted detox ensures each person has the right medications to make symptoms more tolerable.
During Treatment
The administration of medications during alcohol addiction treatment is carefully monitored by medical professionals. The following two drugs are classified as opioid antagonists and work by blocking the activation of opioid receptors.
Suboxone: Typically used in detox. It works by mimicking similar effects of alcohol in the brain. This allows for less shock to the system when alcohol is removed.
Vivitrol: An injection is used to prevent relapse by stopping the release of dopamine that occurs when alcohol is ingested, lowering cravings and alcohol-seeking behavior. Typically used after detox during the stabilization period.