METH DETOX PROGRAM

Methamphetamine Detoxification

Drug Name

Methamphetamine (methyl amphetamine, N-methylamphetamine)

Category

Psycho stimulant

Drug Type / Action

Stimulants increase the activity of either the sympathetic nervous system, the central nervous system (CNS) or both. Some stimulants produce a sense of euphoria, in particular the stimulants which exert influence on the CNS. Stimulants are used therapeutically to increase or maintain alertness, to counteract fatigue in situations where sleep is not practical. 

Methamphetamine has a high potential to

cause addiction after only a few uses.

Methamphetamine addiction is one of the most difficult forms of addictions to treat.  Abrupt interruption of chronic methamphetamine use results in the withdrawal syndrome. Withdrawal of methamphetamine often causes intense depression.

Methamphetamine can be snorted, smoked, or injected and often is used in conjunction with other drugs, particularly pharmaceuticals. There is evidence that most meth abusers in the state of Florida snort the drug, at least initially. However, the harsh chemicals used to produce meth damage the nasal passages, forcing abusers to resort to smoking or injecting the drug.

According to federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, many meth abusers simultaneously use pharmaceuticals including benzodiazepines (Xanax® and Valium®), oxycodone (OxyContin® and Percocet®), and hydrocodone (Lorcet®and Lortab®), many of which they can obtained illegally. State and local law enforcement officials in the state of Florida report that most individuals arrested for possession of meth also possess other drugs, including illegally obtained pharmaceuticals, at the time that those individuals were arrested.  Meth is also available in a more pure from called "Ice".

Are you finding it difficult to stop using meth?

If the answer is YES, we can help you get Meth out of your life.

Side effects and the withdrawal symptoms are similar to cocaine.

While not life-threatening, withdrawal is often intense.

MINOR SIDE EFFECTS OF Methamphetamine

Images are powerful - these ones especially. This is a photo of a SPECT scan done on a 28 year old “normal” woman’s brain (left) and a 28 year old meth user’s brain (right).

A SPECT scan measures the amount of blood flow to tissues in the body.

Withdrawal Symptoms and Effects from Meth Addiction

The adverse effect of methamphetamines on brain chemistry can be long lasting. These symptoms are often severe enough to necessitate prompt medical intervention. Physical addiction to methamphetamine is very rapid. The user quickly needs more and more to avoid the withdrawal symptoms. Meth produces significant withdrawal symptoms.

There are now medications available that can treat methamphetamine addiction.  New Beginnings Detox employs the latest drugs available treat Acute and Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS) and Cravings.

The New Beginnings Detox

Meth Detox and Cravings Management Program

There are two main areas we focus on in our Meth Program:

Pharmacological Intervention (Medication Management)

New Beginnings Detox utilizes several different medications during the course of our methamphetamine detoxification cycle.  We use the latest cutting edge methamphetamine treatment protocols.  We continually conduct research in order to take advantage of modern addiction medicine pharmacological breakthroughs.  Until recently, there were very few detoxification and treatment options for patients suffering from methamphetamine dependency.  Not anymore.

 Here is some of the types of medications we utilize:

How the detox program works:

Intake Interview and Psychosocial Assessment

A preliminary assessment is conducted and the patient is evaluated to determine if they are eligible for the Out-Patient Program.  The NBD Program requirements, the various treatment options, length of treatment, and the fee structure are all discussed.  A confidential interview and intake and orientation is conducted.  Afterward, a psychosocial assessment is performed by a member of our clinical staff who is a Certified Addiction Professional [CAP]. 

Pre-Procedure Medical Evaluation

The detoxification process begins with all NBD patients receiving a complete medical history and physical examination. This may include a laboratory analysis and urine toxicology screen. Our clinicians remain a part of the multi-disciplinary team that cares for the patient throughout detoxification 

Induction Phase - Beginning the Process of Detoxification

The Induction Phase is the medically monitored startup of therapy.  Medications may be prescribed at this time to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and cravings, assist with sleep and reduce anxiety.

Stabilization Phase – Controlling the Cravings

The Stabilization Phase has begun when the patient no longer has cravings for sleep aid medications.

Taper Phase – Getting Free

The Taper Phase is reached when the patient is doing well on prescribed medications and cravings have been minimized.  The patient is then stepped-down from the medications until they are drug-free.  Medications may be gradually switched in order to ensure a greater level of comfort during the detox

FACT:

There is significant research that reveals the fact the medical detoxification without a rigorous program of recovery that includes Psychotherapy and Substance Abuse Group Therapy, may have little lasting effect. The rate of recidivism (relapse) is extremely high with those that choose to forego therapy in conjunction with medical detoxification.