What Is Rapid Detox, And Is It Safe?
Rapid detox, or anesthesia-assisted detox, uses medication to quickly clear a drug from the body while under anesthesia. It has been used for opiate detoxification, but it carries significant risks.
Author Lauren Geoffrion, MD
What Is Rapid Detox?
Rapid and ultra-rapid detox are methods of detoxification that use varying levels of sedation to diminish withdrawal symptoms using an opioid antagonist.
It has only safely been used for opioid detox and is not known to be useful for any other substances. This is likely because the medication used during rapid detox is specific to opioids, and there are no alcohol- or other drug-specific antidotes available. Treatment with these rapid forms of detox has the goal of initiating ongoing opioid antagonist treatment as quickly as possible. Without rapid detoxification, a person must wait for detox to complete before being able to begin treatment with extended-release naltrexone.
How Does Rapid Detox Work?
To facilitate quick detoxification, a person is given an opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, naltrexone, or nalmefene, during sedation or anesthesia.
Detox is the process in which the body cleanses itself of a drug. The administration of an opioid antagonist is thought to force the body to detox more quickly because any opioids present are no longer able to bind to their opioid receptors.
With the clearance of opioids from the body, patients can safely initiate extended-release naltrexone injections for long-term opioid addiction treatment. This form of addiction treatment is typically not safe to begin until patients are opioid-free for one week or longer because it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms if it is begun before detox is completed.
Is Rapid Detox Effective?
Rapid detox is an effective way to allow your body to cleanse itself from opioids, but it is not for everyone.
Studies do not show that rapid detox is any more effective than traditional detox methods, but it may be more dangerous.
In addition, substance use disorder professionals encourage patients to remember that a successful detox is not an effective addiction treatment. Though detox may be effective, ongoing addiction treatment is necessary to enable long-term sobriety and healing.
Is Rapid Detox Safe?
Rapid detox, similar to other procedures done under sedation or anesthesia, can be safe; however, it puts a person at risk for several dangerous and avoidable conditions.
Using an opioid antagonist to precipitate withdrawal can cause severe withdrawal symptoms that require close medical supervision and can be life-threatening.
Potential Dangers Of Rapid Detox
Any procedure done under anesthesia can cause some risks, and going through severe withdrawal may also increase the risk of certain symptoms. Adverse side effects of rapid or ultra-rapid detox include:
- Severe vomiting or diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Delirium
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Pulmonary edema
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Sudden death
Though life-threatening symptoms are rare, it can be difficult to know if you will be affected before undergoing the procedure. Determining your risk is best done by working closely with your healthcare provider to discuss the right approach to detox for you.
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How Much Does Rapid Detox Cost?
The costs of rapid detox and other aspects of addiction treatment vary widely depending on the treatment facility, available amenities, length of stay, your insurance plan, and other factors. In the U.S., the Affordable Care Act of 2010 made it necessary for insurance companies to provide comparable coverage for mental health and substance use disorder claims as medical claims for each plan. However, the level of coverage varies with your insurance plan and type of treatment selected.
Often, rapid detox is not covered by insurance since it’s considered an experiential form of treatment that can cause avoidable health risks. People who choose to undergo rapid detox should expect to pay anywhere from $13,000-$15,000 out of pocket, though costs will vary depending on the individual facility. Some all-inclusive rapid detox centers may charge upwards of $21,000+. Some facilities may offer payment plans or financing, but those details will need to be discussed when seeking treatment.
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What Is The Safest Way to Detox?
The safest, most comfortable way to detox may differ for each person. Enrolling in a medical detox program is a safe way to go through detox, with many supports and medications available to make the process more comfortable. Treatment centers increase comfort by providing soft beds, dim lighting, appropriate nutrition and hydration, and treatment medication to ease symptoms.
Medical Detox Vs. Rapid Detox
Both medical detox and rapid detox can successfully clear a person’s body of their substance of misuse, but rapid detox is not for everyone. Medical detox is often the first step toward healing from addiction, and it can be tailored to fit each person’s needs for treatment and safety. Most addiction treatment centers offer medical detox programs that help patients get through their first week or two of abstinence in safety and comfort.
Comparing medical detox and fast detox methods:
- Timeline: Medical detox does not attempt to rush the body’s natural detox timeline, which can take a week or more to complete. Rapid or ultra-rapid detox may only take a day or two to clear the drug from the body.
- Risks: Medical detox does not present any additional risks than those already present in withdrawal. Rapid detox may put a person at risk for more severe withdrawal symptoms and other life-threatening reactions.
- Comfort: Medical detox can provide relief from withdrawal symptoms with medication and natural supports, but some discomfort can still be felt. Rapid detox provides sedation or anesthesia during the procedure, which can increase comfort during the height of withdrawal.
- Cost: Rapid detox may or may not be covered by your insurance, but you can call your insurance provider to find out what your plan covers.
The preferred treatment plan for each person may be different. Consult a mental health or substance use disorder professional to arrange an assessment and treatment plan according to your personal needs.
How To Find A Detox Center
If you or a loved one are looking to begin the journey to recovery, detox is the place to start.
Finding out how to detox quickly and safely can feel overwhelming, but you can find detox centers and rapid detox programs by talking to your primary care physician or looking online.
If you’re interested in undergoing a medical detox, the safest and most comfortable way to start your recovery, contact a treatment provider today to explore your treatment options.
