Things You Need to Know About Methamphetamine Detox

If you or a loved one are addicted to methamphetamine, then you already know how harmful it can be. The best way to stop further damage and reverse the damage already done is to quit using meth. It is so addictive that this is much easier said than done. However, it is possible to quit if you follow the right procedures. The first step in this process is detox, but there are a few things you need to know about methamphetamine detox before you begin.

The Dangers of Detoxing from Methamphetamine

The dangers associated with methamphetamine detox are all withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are intense, and can make you a hazard to yourself and others. They include:

Fatigue and depression are common methamphetamine detox symptoms.

• Extreme agitation
• Violent mood swings
• Depression
• The need to sleep a lot more than normal
• Fatigue
• Lack of interest in anything
• Difficulty concentrating
• Impaired brain function

Though these symptoms may not seem too bad, you have to remember that they are experienced at extreme levels. This can create dangerous situations that are best handled in a treatment facility.

Understand the Methamphetamine Detox Timeline

The dangers of meth detox are short-lived, and play out over a well-established period of time. According to the California Society of Addiction Medicine, methamphetamine withdrawal lasts approximately three weeks and is divided into two separate phases.

Phase 1

The first phase of methamphetamine withdrawal is also known as the acute phase. It lasts from seven to ten days and is when withdrawal symptoms and cravings are at their worst.

Phase 2

The second phase of methamphetamine withdrawal lasts an additional two weeks, on average, during which time the withdrawal symptoms and cravings diminish.

Going through this process at an addiction treatment center makes relapse far less likely and gives you the support and skills that you need to continue into long-term treatment and recovery. For help finding a meth detox center call 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) .

The Relapse Risk of Trying to do it Alone

Detoxing from methamphetamine is not easy. Attempting to detox on your own makes it very difficult to avoid giving in to cravings for meth, especially when withdrawal symptoms are at their worst and you know that using again will make them stop.

Even more dangerous is the fact that once you have started detoxing, relapse is far more likely to result in a fatal overdose. Your best bet is to not risk your life and seek treatment.

How Detox Centers Treat Methamphetamine Addiction

Currently, there are no medications for the treatment of methamphetamine addiction or withdrawal. However, antidepressants and mood stabilizing medications are often prescribed to ease these symptoms.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the only effective treatments for methamphetamine abuse are behavioral therapies and counseling. These treatments are best received from a licensed addiction treatment facility.

How a Treatment Center can Help

Addiction treatment centers have specially trained staff that have both the knowledge and experience to make methamphetamine detox possible. They are able to provide any medical care that you need, as well as deal with any complications that may arise.

Call us at 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) today and let our dedicated staff help you find the treatment center that is best for you.

Sources

1. California Society of Addiction Medicine. (2005). The Nature, Time Course and Severity of Methamphetamine Withdrawal. 
2. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2013). What Treatments Are Effective for People Who Abuse Methamphetamine?