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3 Benefits of an Opiate Detox Center

two people hug amongst a group in an opiate detox center

Did you know that the United States has been dealing with an opioid epidemic? That’s why opioid and opiate detox programs and rehabs have sprung up nationwide. Many Americans struggle with opioid and opiate addiction. Often, these addictions aren’t brought to light until they’ve already caused disruptions in people’s relationships, responsibilities, and routines. People struggling with addiction may maintain relatively ordinary lives, especially in the initial stages of their substance use disorders (SUDs).

However, almost all people like this need professional help to overcome their addictions. All forms of rehab typically start with detoxification. Looking for an opiate detox program in California? Contact DetoxLA today by calling 818.616.7341 or reaching out to our team online.

What Is the Difference Between Opiates and Opioids?

Some people distinguish between opiates and opioids when they speak about them, but it’s more common to come across people that don’t. Most prefer one over the other or use the two terms interchangeably. For example, U.S. politicians and journalists tend to refer to drugs like this as opioids.

However, opiates and opioids have different definitions—especially in medicine. The main difference between the two is in how they’re made. Opiates are chemical compounds extracted or refined from poppy sap and fibers. They include:

  • Codeine
  • Heroin
  • Morphine
  • Opium

Opioids are chemical compounds that generally are not derived from natural plant matter. They’re primarily made in a laboratory or synthesized by humans. Opioids may be prescribed for anesthesia, cough suppression, diarrhea suppression, or pain relief. Both opiates and opioids may also be misused by people struggling with SUDs.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Admitted Into an Opiate Detox Center?

1. Medically Assisted Detox Reduces Withdrawal Symptoms

Medically assisted detox, also called medical detox, is often recommended to those seeking professional help to overcome SUDs—particularly opiate and opioid use disorders. Opiate and opioid withdrawal symptoms can be significantly discomforting and life-threatening without medical attention and supervision. When someone undergoes the detox process at a rehab center, their chances of surviving detoxification and successfully overcoming addiction increase.

Sometimes, an opioid or opiate detox center may recommend a higher level of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to certain patients. On top of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that reduce specific withdrawal symptoms like headaches or diarrhea, prescription medications can also be used to help wean patients off opioids or opiates.

2. Lower Risk of Relapse and Overdose

Getting admitted into an opioid or opiate detox center is much safer than undergoing detox at home and simply going cold turkey without medical supervision.

Because addictive drugs change a person’s brain chemistry, professional help during detox is the safest and most effective way to stop using them successfully. Opioid and opiate withdrawal is especially difficult to endure without combined medical and psychiatric support. Most people trying to detox at home won’t have enough willpower to keep themselves from relapsing immediately, which can result in an overdose.

3. Professional Mental Health Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support

It’s rare for someone struggling with addiction not to need professional help to overcome it. When patients choose to undergo the first step of their addiction recovery path at a detox center, they also walk alongside healthcare professionals. Instead of overcoming their SUD alone, they can depend on people who are trained and experienced enough to provide the aid they need.

When Should You Consider an Opiate Detox Program?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid or opiate addiction, it’s in your best interest to seek professional help as soon as possible. Don’t wait until an overdose situation to go to an opioid or opiate detox center. Don’t wait until an addition has completely disrupted relationships, responsibilities, and routines before considering rehab.

Most opioid or opiate detox programs are connected to addiction treatment programs that patients can transition to afterward, often in the same or a nearby facility.

Learn More About DetoxLA’s Opiate Detox Program

If you’re searching for an opiate detox program in California, contact DetoxLA today. Call 818.616.7341 or reach out to our team online.