Rapid Detox vs. Ultra-Rapid Detox
All worthwhile drug abuse treatment programs involve some form of detox as their first stage. This is because drugs are essentially poisons, and this first step of removing them from the system eliminates physical withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence on the substance.
However, at times this process can be long and arduous, which causes many people to drop out of treatment. In recent years, new strides have been made to lessen the amount of time it takes to get over the side effects of withdrawal. Two of these faster options are rapid detox and ultra-rapid detox.
Contact us now to find detox centers near you!
What is Rapid Detox?
Rapid detox involves placing the person under anesthesia. They are then treated with a combination of medications in order to remove the residual toxins of the drugs and carry them out of the brain and body.
Benefits of rapid detox

Rapid detox takes place under anesthesia, so patients avoid experiencing most withdrawal symptoms.
- Detox time is reduced from weeks or months to days
- No withdrawal symptoms are felt while under the effects of anesthesia
- Higher retention rates in drug treatment programs
Drawbacks of rapid detox
- It is only effective if it is part of a more comprehensive treatment program
- Unpredictable results in the duration and intensity of withdrawal symptoms
- Uncertain outcomes and sometimes dire consequences stemming from complications with the anesthesia
All of these drawbacks should be carefully weighed against the possible benefits of rapid detox. Anyone considering rapid detox should be sure that they discuss the risks involved with a doctor before selecting it as part of their treatment program.
What Makes Ultra-Rapid Detox Different?
There is only one real difference between rapid detox and ultra-rapid detox: the time it takes to complete.
Whereas rapid detox requires two to three sessions spread across a few days, ultra-rapid detox is completed in one day. This is achieved by placing the drug user under deeper anesthesia for a longer period of time.
The benefits of ultra-rapid detox are the same as those for rapid detox. However, there are many more drawbacks.
Drawbacks of Ultra-Rapid Detox
- It is only effective in people with mild or moderate dependence issues.
- Studies have shown that ultra-rapid detox is no more effective than any other detox method in reducing withdrawal symptoms.
- More frequent negative reactions and complications from anesthesia
- Fluid in the lungs and breathing problems, cardiac irregularities and cardiac arrest, complications of diabetes, complications of a variety of mental health issues, and possible seizures
It’s important to keep in mind that success and complications vary by patient. It is up to you and your doctor to determine whether or not this method is right for you.
Why Does it Matter?
It is important when selecting a detox program to know what options are available. Now that you know some of the risks and rewards that go along with rapid detox and ultra-rapid detox, you are in a better position to make an informed decision about what is right for you and your situation. However, you should always discuss any treatment plan with your doctor.
What is most important? Making the decision to enter detox treatment and begin the path to recovery.
Call 800-996-6135 today to find detox centers near you.