The Biology of Withdrawal
When the brain is flooded with drugs for years, it stops making its own chemicals. When the drugs stop, the brain goes into shock. This is withdrawal.
The Danger Zones
Some withdrawals are miserable; others are deadly.
- Alcohol & Benzos (Xanax/Valium): THESE CAN KILL YOU. Withdrawal causes a "GABA rebound" that can lead to grand mal seizures, heart failure, and Delirium Tremens (DTs). Never stop these cold turkey without medical advice.
- Opiates (Heroin/Fentanyl): While rarely fatal on their own, the dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea can be dangerous. The psychological pain also drives a high risk of immediate relapse and overdose.
Levels of Care in the IE
- Acute Medical Detox (Hospital): For high-risk patients. Pomona Valley Hospital and Riverside University Health System have units for this.
- Sub-Acute Detox (Residential): For stable patients. Facilities like Everlast Recovery offer 24/7 nursing in a home-like setting. They use "taper" medications to make the process comfortable.
What Happens After Detox?
Detox is not treatment; it is just the beginning. It clears the body, but the mind is still sick. "Spin-drying"—going to detox and then going home—has a failure rate of over 90%. Always have a plan for Residential treatment or IOP immediately following discharge.