Detox Services
Drug and Alcohol Detox Services at Pacific Sky Recovery Center
Why Detox is Essential
When someone decides to stop using drugs or alcohol, withdrawal symptoms can quickly appear. These symptoms—ranging from mild discomfort to serious medical complications—can make recovery feel overwhelming. Many people hesitate to seek treatment due to fear of painful withdrawal or past negative experiences.
That’s why professional detox is so important. Our program is designed to manage withdrawal safely and compassionately, helping each guest begin their recovery journey with stability and support.
Who Benefits Most from Detox?
Not everyone entering treatment requires full detoxification, but detox may be the best option for those who:
- Are actively intoxicated or already in withdrawal
- Need medical stabilization before beginning therapy
- Struggle with cognitive or emotional challenges that require preparation for treatment
Blog Categories
Categories
A Safe, Medically Supervised Process
At Pacific Sky, detox is overseen by a physician and monitored 24/7 by licensed nurses and support staff. Our team helps manage symptoms, prevent complications, and ensure each guest feels supported throughout the process.
Detox is not a standalone cure for addiction. Instead, it serves as the foundation for long-term recovery, preparing individuals to transition safely into therapy, residential care, or outpatient programs.
Alcohol Detox
Understanding Alcohol Dependence
Alcohol dependence occurs when the body adapts to alcohol and requires it to function. When drinking stops suddenly, withdrawal symptoms can develop within hours or days.
Common symptoms include:
- Mild: Anxiety, sweating, nausea, tremors, insomnia
- Moderate: Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, irritability, confusion
- Severe: Seizures, hallucinations, or delirium tremens (DTs)—a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical care
The Alcohol Detox Process
- Evaluation – A full assessment including medical history, physical exam, and lab tests
- Stabilization – Medical support to ease symptoms and reduce risks, often with medications such as benzodiazepines
- Medical Supervision – Around-the-clock monitoring to ensure safety, especially for those with severe dependence
Medications Used in Alcohol Detox
- Benzodiazepines – Reduce symptoms and prevent seizures
- Anticonvulsants – Sometimes used alongside or instead of benzodiazepines
- Adrenergic medications – Manage blood pressure, tremors, and related symptoms
- Vitamins & Supplements – Especially thiamine, to prevent alcohol-related deficiencies and complications
Drug Detox
Understanding Drug Dependence
Drug dependence develops when repeated use of a substance causes the body to rely on it, leading to tolerance and withdrawal. Substances that may require detox include opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants (like cocaine or methamphetamine), and prescription medications.
Withdrawal symptoms vary by substance:
- Opioids – Muscle aches, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia
- Benzodiazepines – Irritability, seizures, hallucinations (if severe)
- Stimulants – Depression, fatigue, increased appetite, vivid dreams
- Alcohol – Tremors, nausea, seizures, DTs
The Drug Detox Process
Following evaluation and stabilization, detox is managed with close medical supervision. Care plans are tailored to the individual and substance involved.
Medications may include:
- Opioids – Methadone, buprenorphine, or clonidine for cravings and withdrawal
- Benzodiazepines – Gradual tapering, sometimes with anticonvulsant support
- Stimulants – Supportive care, with medications to manage depression or anxiety as needed
After Detox: The Next Step
Detox clears the body of substances, but ongoing treatment is essential to address the psychological, behavioral, and social aspects of addiction. After completing detox, guests are encouraged to continue recovery through:
- Residential treatment programs
- Individual and group counseling
- Support groups like NA or SMART Recovery
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) where appropriate
Begin Your Recovery Today
Detox is a vital first step toward a healthier, drug-free life. At Pacific Sky Recovery Center, we provide compassionate care in a comfortable, homelike setting—helping you or your loved one transition safely into long-term treatment and recovery.
If you or someone you love needs help with drug or alcohol dependence, contact Pacific Sky Recovery Center in Spokane, WA, today.
