Best Way to Detox from Alcohol at Home

Best Way to Detox from Alcohol at Home

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You may have experienced many twists and turns before finally being ready to get some help for a drinking problem. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) takes time to develop and worsen, eventually taking a heavy toll on your life. But as much as you might have resisted the idea of sobriety, you are now ready to tackle the AUD.

So, what is the best way to detox alcohol from your system? Alcohol detox is tricky and must be undertaken with great care. There are unknown risks that can crop up during the detox process, some of which can even be life threatening. For this reason, having a medical professional oversee the detox is the best course of action.

Why Detox Alcohol at Home?

When it’s time to seek help for AUD, many decide to undergo the detox process within the privacy of their own home. There are many benefits to going through a supervised alcohol detox at home. These include:

  1. Enhanced privacy. No one will see you entering a detox center, which eliminates the fear of stigma.
  2. Less stressful than going through detox at a facility. Going through detox at a facility is not as relaxed as it is at home.
  3. Increased comfort being at home in familiar surroundings. Having access to your own bed, your own kitchen, and even the family dog creates a more comfortable detox experience.
  4. Access to your loved ones and their support while going through detox. Instead of strangers at a detox center, you will be able to interact with your loved ones at home.
  5. Holistic therapies. Access to holistic methods, like IV vitamin therapy, massage, and acupuncture, can help ease discomfort.

What to Expect During Alcohol Detox

Chronic heavy drinking eventually impacts the brain and several organs, including the heart. Alcohol abuse has a profound effect on brain chemistry and neural pathways. Over time, these pathways are altered.

When you decide to stop drinking the body struggles to adjust to the absence of alcohol. The severity of this reaction, or the withdrawal symptoms, depends on the duration of the alcoholism. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

It is never wise to stop drinking on your own without medical oversight. Alcohol detox involves having vital signs closely monitored to be on the lookout for any acute symptoms. To reduce the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms, meds are provided as needed.

Detox symptoms may include:

  • Sweating
  • Agitation
  • Confusion
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Abdominal pain.
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Shakiness
  • Disorientation
  • Headache
  • Insomnia
  • Seizures

What Are the Risks of Alcohol Detox?

Alcohol withdrawal can be a challenge because detox does not always follow a predictable path. In fact, you can be nearing the end of the detox process when, on day four or five, extreme symptoms set in. This is a condition called the delirium tremens, or the DTs. Symptoms of the DTs include:

  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme mental confusion.
  • Agitation
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Insomnia

The DTs impact a small number of people going through alcohol detox. However, because symptoms can be very severe, up to 15% of those who get the DTs will not survive. For this reason, alcohol detox should always be done under the supervision of a trained medical detox team.

What is the Alcohol Detox Timeline?

The alcohol detox process varies from one person to the next. Some may sail through detox in three days while others take ten days. There are several factors that affect the detox timeline. These include how long you had the drinking problem, how much you drank, your health, and other substance addictions.

Alcohol detox goes through three distinct phases:

Stage one. The initial phase of detox begins about eight hours after the last drink. This stage features anxiety, nausea, stomach pain, mild hand tremors, loss of appetite, vomiting, foggy thinking, sweating, and headaches.

Stage two. The second phase starts 24-72 hours after the last drink and involves fever, increased blood pressure and heart rate, insomnia, and confusion. You may experience a sudden unexpected onset of severe symptoms during this phase.

Stage three. The final phase of detox features less severe symptoms, as the brain adjusts to the lack of alcohol. You might still have fever, disorientation, agitation, and hallucinations, although these are not common. Some symptoms, like sleep problems and depression, may linger for weeks.

The Best Way to Detox Alcohol at Home

The best way to detox alcohol involves doing so in a setting where you are under the care of a physician. This pertains whether you detox at home with the help of a private detox nurse, or in a rehab setting. These experts are trained to guide you through the three stages of detox with the least amount of discomfort. Their goal is to help you safely complete the detox and then segue into treatment.

Next Steps After Detox

For the best chance of recovery success, you should enter a rehab program right after you’ve completed detox. Your detox nurse and doctor can guide you as to which level of care is best for your AUD.

Outpatient rehab is suited for early AUD and is flexible and a less pricey treatment option. If your AUD is moderate to severe, though, a residential rehab program is the better choice. You will receive a much more intensive treatment regimen while having access to 24-hour support.

Treatment elements include:

  • Private therapy sessions.
  • Group therapy sessions.
  • Education and life skills training.
  • Relapse prevention planning.
  • Family therapy
  • Holistic methods.
  • 12-step program.

The best way to detox alcohol is the one that works best for you, however, it should include medical oversight.

Kinkaid Private Care is a full-service concierge private nursing and healthcare management service provider that specializes in at-home medical detox. Kinkaid Private Care detox nurses help ease withdrawal symptoms and offer emotional support as well. If you are interested in the best way to detox from alcohol, please call us today at (866) 527-5892.

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can i detox in 24 hours

Can I Detox in 24 Hours?

Can I Cleanse My Body of Drugs in 24 Hours?

Drug and alcohol detox can be a difficult and debilitating experience – still, people are always looking for the quick-fix solutions to rid their body of drugs, start feeling better, and escape the discomfort of withdrawal. But can you detox in 24 hours, or are you putting yourself in danger by attempting to do so?

How Drugs and Alcohol Leave the Body

When you ingest drugs or alcohol in any form, or by any method, you are introducing these substances into the bloodstream. For example: if you swallow an addictive substance, such as alcohol or painkillers, they enter the bloodstream through the stomach, the liver, and the digestive tract. In the case of alcohol, drinks are absorbed first through the stomach lining, which enters the bloodstream and heads directly to your liver.

The liver begins to metabolize alcohol almost instantaneously – attempting to clear out the toxic substance from your bloodstream. But some of the alcohol you drink makes it through the liver and passes back into the bloodstream, where it will ultimately reach your brain. As the cycle of blood returns to the liver, more and more alcohol is broken down until you have fully cleared any toxins from your system.

Other methods of ingesting substances work in similar ways:

  • Smoking: substances pass through the capillaries in the lungs into the bloodstream
  • Snorting: substances land upon your mucous membranes, which transport the substance into the blood
  • Injection: substances enter the bloodstream directly

In all cases and with other addictive chemicals, the liver is the primary organ responsible for cleansing – or detoxing – toxic substances from your system. The liver cleans the blood and breaks down addictive chemicals into less harmful metabolites to be eliminated.

How Long Does It Take Drugs and Alcohol to Leave Your System?

Different drugs are broken down at different rates, and fully clearing your system can take anywhere from several hours to over a month. A common method of testing whether substances have fully left your system is through urinalysis – testing the urine for the presence of drug metabolites. By the time a urine test can no longer detect a substance, it has typically been entirely eliminated.

With some variation between individuals, typical drug detection times include:

Some substances will take longer to clear the body when they’ve been used heavily, and genetic and physical health factors may influence the rate of drug metabolism as well.

24 hour detoxCan You Detox in 24 Hours?

By understanding how drugs get processed in the body, we can answer the question “can I detox in 24 hours?” with certainty. In nearly all cases, detoxing from drugs and alcohol is impossible within 24 hours. The drug hasn’t even fully cleared your system yet, and most people’s definition of detox is concerned less with if drugs are still in your bloodstream and more concerned with overcoming debilitating withdrawal effects.

Looking at the time it takes to eliminate drugs from your body above, these timelines generally coincide with when the worst physical and mental health withdrawal symptoms occur. Withdrawal symptoms from opioids, alcohol, and methamphetamine all peak at the 3-day mark, before beginning to subside over the next week. Benzodiazepines and cannabis, on the other hand, have protracted withdrawal symptoms since the substance takes longer to leave the body.

The 24-Hour Detox Myth

When you search for 24-hour detox cures on the internet, many websites will tell you it’s not only possible, but simple and easy. Typically, it involves purchasing a detox drink or a number of different nutritional supplements, either through their own company’s store or via affiliate marketing links. Don’t believe these marketing strategies: no combination of vitamins, minerals, and supplements can cheat biology.

Certain strategies may be able to help your body cleanse itself of harmful substances somewhat quicker, but these are marginal improvements. Drinking more water, for instance, can dilute the urine, making it contain less of a drug metabolite – but it won’t help you feel better, and it likely won’t make enough of a difference to pass a drug test.

These marketing approaches are not only deceitful – but can be dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms from drugs and alcohol can cause serious medical concerns, which often lead to life-threatening emergencies. The only way to safely detox from these substances is with the help of a trained medical professional, that can provide targeted treatments to reduce your symptoms and keep you safe and comfortable.

 Why Choose at Home Detox

You can detox at home with the help of an in-home medical detox provider. Kinkaid Private Care provides exclusive services to select clients that want the best medical treatment for drug and alcohol withdrawals, and our specially trained providers will meet you at your residence to provide their services.

Medical detox uses proven, evidence-based methods to help people achieve sobriety. Each treatment plan is customized to the unique needs of our patients and can help to manage withdrawal symptoms such as:

  • Shakes
  • Anxiety
  • Substance cravings
  • Hot and cold flashes
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Seizures
  • Delirium

These services are typically provided at an inpatient drug and alcohol detox center – but with Kinkaid Private Care, you can receive all the same effective withdrawal management techniques from the comfort of home. This allows you to receive exclusive one-on-one attention from our care team, complete and total privacy, and truly individualized treatment options that allow you to continue living your life as you see fit.

We understand the desire for people to want to overcome drug and alcohol addiction quickly, and our services never extend beyond what’s medically necessary. But choosing to work with professionals can ensure that you start your recovery on the right foot, that you have the tools to maintain it, and that you stay safe and healthy in the process.

Reach Out to Kinkaid Private Care Today

Don’t ask yourself “Can I detox in 24 hours”; instead, ask yourself how important your sobriety is to you. You deserve more than a bottle of supplements to help you overcome drug or alcohol addiction, and Kinkaid Private Care can offer you the best medical detox services on the market.

Reach out to our team by calling (866) 337-4596 or filling out our confidential online contact form to speak to one of our trained medical professionals and start the path to a lasting recovery today.

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how to detox your body from drugs at home

How to Detox Your Body from Drugs at Home

Although drug addiction remains at high levels nationally, every day many people decide to quit using drugs. Many others want to stop their drug abuse but fear checking into a rehab facility. Other people struggling with drug addiction may be concerned about the potential dangers and discomforts of drug detox. These are all valid concerns. After all, everyone has heard of the dangers of drug detoxification, but what is it and why is it dangerous, and can drug detox take place in a person’s home?

Can You Safely Detox From Drugs at Home?

Fortunately, you can safely detox from drugs in the comfort and privacy of your own home, with one major caveat: you can detox from drugs at home with professional medical assistance.

Drug detox is the process by which drugs of abuse and their toxic byproducts are purged from an addicted person’s body, allowing them to function without those drugs.  However, most addictive substances make significant changes in the ways a person’s major organs and tissues work and react. Addictive drugs cause dependence, and that’s a serious phenomenon in which the addict’s normal, baseline functioning depends on a steady level of their drug of choice in their bodies just to work at all.

That’s why quitting ‘cold turkey’ by abruptly halting one’s intake of addictive drugs is risky, painful, and can be life-threatening. When a person stops taking drugs of abuse suddenly, their body will go into withdrawal, which can be painful and dangerous.

No one should attempt to quit drugs on their own. There are many other safe, secure ways to get clean from drugs, including home detox.

What Does Detox Feel Like?

Detox feels different for everyone, and that includes the levels of discomfort a person feels. When a person stops consuming alcohol or drugs, withdrawal starts. Withdrawal is the most intense phase of detox and can be uncomfortable or painful. Some factors that influence this include the individual’s overall health and the drug or drugs they’ve been using. The biggest factor that influences a person’s detox is whether they’re going through it alone or with professional assistance.

Detoxification is the first step in the substance abuse recovery process. During this process, the body rids itself of toxic substances and the chemical by-products caused by these toxins.

All of the following detox symptoms happen when a person detoxes at home without medical supervision and support. Home detox with medical support is a much less dangerous, far more comfortable process.

Alcohol. Alcohol has one of the most painful detoxes when detox is carried out without medical support. After about 8 hours after the last drink, a person will experience nausea, anxiety, and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include mild hand tremors, heavy sweating, vomiting, loss of appetite, and headaches. About 24 hours after an alcoholic’s last drink, dangerous symptoms become inevitable. These include rapidly increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature.

The final stage of unmanaged alcohol detox includes delirium tremens, a dangerous syndrome that produces hallucinations, agitation, disorientation, and sometimes seizure.

Opioids and opiates. These drugs are highly effective painkillers but produce euphoria when abused and are habit-forming. They include fentanyl, hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, morphine, and heroin. Detoxing from opioids without medical support can include some unpleasant symptoms, such as muscle cramps, joint pain, nausea, vomiting, tremors, blood pressure swings, runny eyes, and stomach cramps.

Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines (benzos) are prescription-only medications given for the relief of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. There are a vast number of benzos, but the most commonly prescribed are alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), triazolam (Halcion), and temazepam (Restoril), and they all require medically supervised detox upon quitting.

Ironically, when a person quits consuming benzos, rebound anxiety becomes intense, causing sweating, heart palpitations, shaking, and a rapid heartbeat. Long-term use of benzodiazepines can cause a person to become psychotic or have seizures and like alcohol, heavy users of benzos should never try to abruptly stop using on their own.

How to Detox Your Body From Drugs at Home

If you’re detoxing from drugs at home, you need the support of in-home medical care. However, you can also establish new habits that will help you recover more rapidly. Eating a healthy, nutrient-dense diet is one of the best habits you can establish.

What Foods Help Flush Out Your System?

Addiction causes severe nutritional deficiencies which can leave a person vulnerable to malnourishment. People who are in detox from drug addiction need to return to good physical and mental health and eating nutrient-rich foods helps speed that process. That’s because addiction wreaks havoc on a person’s tissues and organs and can leave a person malnourished.

These are some of the most effective foods for flushing out and supporting a person’s system during detox.

  • Water. Staying hydrated is always important, especially when a person is detoxing from drugs. During detox, people may experience heavy sweating, which can help the body purge itself of toxins, but can be dehydrating. Getting enough water helps prevent that dehydration, but also increases the body’s ability to flush out the harmful biological byproducts of addictive drugs.
  • Protein. A person in detox needs protein to help rebuild tissues and organs damaged by addiction. Both meat and plant-based proteins will do the job.
  • Fruit. Fruits are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and water. Some of the most effective cleansing fruits include citrus, cantaloupe, peaches, and berries.
  • Green leafy vegetables. Spinach and kale are loaded with nutrients, including minerals like potassium and calcium. Sea greens like kelp are loaded with prebiotic fiber that helps regenerate healthy gut bacteria.
  • Healthy fats. Some fats are essential for the good health of the nervous system. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in supplements, but the best way to get them is from fatty cold-water fish, like salmon or mackerel, or plants, such as chia, flaxseed, and walnuts.

Kinkaid Private Nursing Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive in-home detox care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client. Additionally, not only do we specialize in premium care, but we also practice proper management techniques to ensure your care is organized, efficient, and best for you.

Overall, we create a concierge medical experience for each of our clients. Our approach starts with building relationships with each of our clients and their families; we get to know you in the comfort and privacy of your home to understand your exact needs. We then create a personal care team for you consisting of at least a clinical nurse specialist, clinical case manager, and care coordinator. Our compassionate teams are clinician-led and available to you 24/7 to provide unparalleled service and attention to detail.

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stopping klonopin

The Dangers of Stopping Klonopin Suddenly

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Stopping Klonopin suddenly, without appropriate medical intervention, can lead to a life-threatening emergency. The withdrawal effects from Klonopin can lead to serious physical symptoms that are incredibly dangerous, particularly if you are taking a high dose of Klonopin. Kinkaid Private Care offers in-home benzodiazepine detox that can alleviate these physical symptoms and help you to achieve sobriety safely.

Klonopin Addiction

Klonopin, also known by the generic form clonazepam, is a benzodiazepine drug that has a high risk for misuse. Typically prescribed for the treatment of anxiety or as an anticonvulsant, Klonopin can also lower people’s inhibitions, produce a feeling of euphoria, and lead to drug dependence.

Like other addictive drugs, using Klonopin recreationally, or in excess of your prescription, can quickly lead to the development of a substance use disorder. People who develop an addiction to Klonopin can experience symptoms such as:

  • Invasive drug cravings
  • Lack of interest in activities outside of Klonopin use
  • Worsening physical and mental health symptoms as a result of Klonopin use
  • Multiple failed attempts at cutting down or stopping Klonopin use
  • Uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when stopping Klonopin suddenly
  • Using more Klonopin than intended, or for longer than intended

Benzodiazepines like Klonopin resulted in over 212,000 emergency department visits between 2016 and 2017, and were involved in nearly 17% of overdose deaths between 2019 and 2020. These drugs, even if prescribed by your physician, can be incredibly dangerous. But you must take care when deciding to stop your Klonopin use, to avoid any complications of withdrawal.

Most people who develop a Klonopin addiction will be unable to stop on their own. Targeted intervention from a benzodiazepine detox can help people break through this initial first stage and start them on the path to recovery.

How Do I Get Rid of Clonazepam?

If you’re committed to stopping Klonopin, the first step should always be to reach out to a benzodiazepine detox. The side effects of stopping Klonopin “cold-turkey” can be deadly, and it’s vitally important that you seek professional help before getting rid of your medication.

If you’ve found a treatment team that can help you to detox safely, the United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends disposing of your medications by taking them out of the original container, placing them into a disposable container, and mixing them with coffee grounds or cat litter. Don’t dispose of your Klonopin by flushing them down the toilet, where it can contaminate local water supplies, or throw them in the trash where children or pets may be able to reach them.

How Long Does It Take to Get Klonopin Out of Your System?

Klonopin can stay in your system for up to a month. Klonopin has a half-life of 22-32 hours, much longer than most other benzodiazepines. The half-life of a drug refers to the amount of time that it takes your body to eliminate 50% of the substance, and some studies have shown that Klonopin was still detectable in urine up to 28 days after administration.

This long half-life of Klonopin can also make the withdrawal process take an extended period. Klonopin’s withdrawal timeline is over twice as long as other benzodiazepines, such as Xanax or Valium, and many people will need extended treatment in order to detox successfully.

The Dangers of Stopping Klonopin Suddenly

Klonopin, like all other benzodiazepines, is a central nervous system depressant. Specifically, it acts on GABA receptors within the brain. GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning that it is responsible for helping people to calm down and relax.

This produces several effects that make Klonopin widely abused, including:

  • Relaxation
  • Drowsiness
  • Anxiety relief
  • Lowered inhibitions

It can also produce side effects such as slowed breathing, light headedness, and memory loss.

When people use Klonopin for extended periods, their brain’s become dependent on the drug. The natural resting state of the brain becomes more stimulated, balancing out the effects that Klonopin has on GABA receptors.

When a person attempts stopping Klonopin suddenly, that balance is broken, and their central nervous system becomes hyperactive. This can lead to the hallmark side effects of stopping Klonopin, typically referred to as Klonopin withdrawal.

Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms

People who have been taking Klonopin regularly experience several withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop. These symptoms can range from being mildly uncomfortable to life-threatening emergencies, depending on how much Klonopin you typically take, how long you’ve taken Klonopin, and if you have any pre-existing medical health conditions.

Klonopin withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Racing heart rate
  • Anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Muscle aches and cramps
  • Insomnia
  • Shakes
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures

If left untreated, the seizures from Klonopin withdrawal can be deadly.

Klonopin withdrawals typically begin one to three days after your last dose. You may first begin to notice symptoms between the second and third days, and symptoms typically begin to peak at the two week mark. Most withdrawal symptoms will begin to subside after about a month.

Getting the Help You Need

If you’re living with the effects of a Klonopin addiction, detox is considered a medical necessity. It is not safe for you to stop Klonopin on your own, and it should never be attempted without medical intervention.

Getting treatment is the only way to ensure that you can safely stop Klonopin use. Targeted medical interventions can prevent withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, as well as alleviating the side effects of stopping Klonopin suddenly.

Kinkaid Private Care offers in-home Klonopin detox services to help people break through this difficult stage from the comfort of home. Our in-home detox model brings a team of medical and mental health professionals to where our clients are already most comfortable, and delivers targeted treatment options to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal.

In-home detox services with Kinkaid offer the highest level of addiction care, individualized treatment plans, and a concierge medical experience like no other treatment center can provide. Our team has decades of experience in substance use treatment, and can bring everything you need to recover to your own home.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Klonopin addiction, reach out to our team by calling (866) 337-4596 or filling out our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.  You can recover – and the team at Kinkaid Private Care can help.

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how long does oxycodone stay in your system

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?

What is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever in the opioid family of analgesics, given for the management of moderate to severe pain. It’s sold under the name Oxycontin, as well as many others. Like all opioids and opiates, it works by binding with opioid receptors found in nerve tissue throughout the brain and spinal cord, suppressing the perception of pain.

Oxycodone also causes lasting changes in how the brain makes and responds to dopamine, the neurotransmitter that controls feelings of pleasure and regulates the sensation of pain.

As with all opioids, oxycodone has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Oxycodone is similar to drugs such as:

  • Hydrocodone 
  • Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
  • Morphine
  • Codeine
  • Tramadol
  • Fentanyl (Duragesic, Abstral)

Brand Names for Oxycodone

  • OxyContin (immediate release)
  • OxyContin CR (controlled-release)
  • Xtampza ER (extended-release)
  • Oxaydo (immediate release)

Other Medications that Include Oxycodone

  • Percocet (oxycodone plus acetaminophen)
  • Tylox (oxycodone plus acetaminophen_

When Do You Start Feeling the Effects of Oxycodone?

How rapidly you feel the effects of oxycodone depends on the formulation you’re taking and the way in which it gets into your system. Oxycodone that’s delivered by an injection is the fastest of all routes of administration. You’ll feel the results of an injection almost instantly. Immediate-release oxycodone is given through capsules and in liquid and works within 30 minutes. Immediate-release oxycodone will wear off in 4 to 6 hours.

Slow-release or extended release oxycodone comes in tablet form and can take several hours to start working, but because it builds up slowly in the system, it delivers longer-lasting pain relief.

How Long Does It Take for the Effects of Oxycodone to Subside?

Orally-dosed oxycodone’s effects peak 2 hours after the first dose and begin to wear off within 4 to 6 hours. The rate at which oxycodone’s effects subside is based on the dosage a person is taking and how it’s introduced into their system, such as by injection, capsules, liquid, or tablet formulations. Another important factor is a person’s history of taking opioids. Oxycodone’s effects will fade most rapidly in those people who have a long history of using opioids.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?

After the last use, levels of immediate-release formulations of oxycodone drop by 50% after 3.2 hours. Levels of controlled and extended-release versions of oxycodone will be 50% lower after 4.5 hours to 5.6 hours.

It takes 24 hours for most people to completely clear oxycodone from their blood, but its breakdown products are detectable for much longer.

After the last dose of oxycodone is taken, it can be detected:

  • In saliva for 24 to 96 hours
  • In urine for 72 to 96 hours
  • In hair for as long as 90 days

Many factors affect how quickly opiates leave your system. A person’s general health, the health of their kidneys and liver, body weight, and age are all important determiners of how long oxycodone stays in your system.

  • Liver function

People with liver dysfunction clear oxycodone about 2 hours more slowly than people with normally functioning livers.

  • Age

People over the age of 65 process oxycodone more slowly than younger people.

  • Gender

Oxycodone leaves a woman’s system more rapidly than a man’s although the reasons for a gender difference are not known.

  • Kidney function

People with kidney problems take up to one hour longer to eliminate oxycodone from their bodies than people with regularly functioning kidneys.

  • History of oxycodone consumption

Opioid medications are prone to building up in a person’s fatty tissues. If you’ve been using oxycodone for weeks or months, it will take longer to get out of your body.

Symptoms of Withdrawal from Oxycodone

Symptoms of withdrawal will start within 12 hours of a person’s last dose and feel much like flu symptoms. People who have used oxycodone chronically or in large amounts will experience more intense withdrawal symptoms than those who’ve used it for a short time or in lower doses

Typical symptoms of Oxycodone withdrawal include:

  • Excessive yawning
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure)
  • Depression
  • Body aches and pains
  • Diaphoresis (extreme sweating)
  • Coughing
  • Runny nose
  • Teary eyes
  • Shaking
  • Increased heart rate
  • Poor concentration
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability

How Long Does Withdrawal from Oxycodone Last?

The length of oxycodone withdrawal depends on several factors, including:

  • A person’s health, particularly their liver and kidney health
  • The length of time a person has been using oxycodone
  • How much and how frequently they used oxycodone
  • Their typical route of administration—such as orally, injections, or insufflation (snorting).

Oxycodone abuse and addiction causes intense psychological and physical side effects. They range in intensity and duration from person to person but are usually uncomfortable and can be frightening. Early withdrawal symptoms show up from 6 to 12 hours after a person’s last dose Symptoms of oxycodone withdrawal will peak within 72 hours, then lessen over a week to 10 days.

How Kinkaid Private Care Can Help

You also don’t have to go into a hospital or clinic to detox from oxycodone. Kinkaid Private Care delivers top-notch care through the services of a private detox nurse, a trained medical professional under the supervision of a physician. The detox nurse is fully trained to provide medical assistance for oxycodone withdrawal symptoms, from mild to more severe. Your private detox nurse will help ease you through the detox and withdrawal process, allowing you to stay in the safe and private environment of your own home.

Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client. Additionally, not only do we specialize in premium care, but we also practice proper management techniques to ensure your care is organized, efficient, and best for you.

Overall, we create a concierge medical experience for each of our clients. Our approach starts with building relationships with each of our clients and their families; we get to know you in the comfort and privacy of your home to understand your exact needs. We then create a personal care team for you consisting of at least a clinical nurse specialist, clinical case manager, and care coordinator. Our compassionate teams are clinician-led and available to you 24/7 to provide unparalleled service and attention to detail.

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alcohol withdrawal insomnia

Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia: What to Expect

Insomnia and alcohol withdrawal often go hand in hand. This common and tough symptom can lead to relapses early in recovery, but medical detox professionals can provide treatment. You need not suffer from sleepless nights to achieve sobriety. Let the Kinkaid Private Care team help you overcome insomnia and alcohol withdrawal in this tough phase of recovery.

Why Does Alcohol Withdrawal Cause Insomnia?

Is insomnia a side effect of giving up alcohol? To see why insomnia and alcohol withdrawal are related, you need to understand how alcohol affects your brain and body first. Alcohol produces its effects by depressing the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. This can result in several effects:

  • Slower breathing
  • Reduced anxiety
  • Lower heart rate
  • Drowsiness
  • Pain relief

These effects could lead people to use alcohol as a sleep aid. Its short-term effects can bring relaxation and help them fall asleep faster.

However, as you begin to consume alcohol more often, your body begins to compensate in the other direction. Your central nervous system becomes more excitable, counteracting the effects of alcohol. The main reason for developing tolerance and experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms is the shift in the central nervous system.

alcohol insomniaInsomnia and Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

When a heavy drinker suddenly stops, their central nervous system becomes dangerously overactive. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are the opposite of the effects of alcohol, and you might experience symptoms like:

  • Insomnia
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Rapid breathing
  • Anxiety
  • Shakes
  • Muscle aches and cramps

In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can also result in life-threatening seizures and hallucinate. For this reason, medical intervention is strongly encouraged when you are attempting to stop drinking. Targeted medication can not only ease withdrawal and make you feel more comfortable but also prevent life-threatening consequences.

Prevalence of Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia

Alcohol withdrawal insomnia is prevalent in people recovering from an alcohol use disorder. Roughly half of people experiencing withdrawal will experience this symptom, though some people are at greater risk than others.

As the severity of alcohol use disorder increases, so does the risk of insomnia. People who drink alcohol, smoke, have both depression and anxiety or use alcohol as a sleep aid are much more likely to have this troublesome symptom.

The Importance of Quality Sleep During Detox

You can overcome alcohol withdrawal insomnia with at-home medical detox services. Several treatment options can help to make your detox safe, comfortable, and therapeutic.

Treating Alcohol Withdrawal Insomnia

With at-home medical detox services, alcohol withdrawal insomnia can be overcome. Several treatment options can help to make your detox safe, comfortable, and refreshing.

The Medical Taper

A medical taper is the primary method of treating an alcohol use disorder. It can help to treat insomnia, prevent seizures, and eliminate many uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Essentially, the medical taper is a method of calming the central nervous system during alcohol withdrawal. The hyperactive central nervous system affected by long-term alcohol use can gradually return to its normal levels.

For most people, the medical taper is enough to help them achieve high-quality sleep during detox. But if insomnia persists, there are further options that can treat this troubling symptom.

Specific Sleep Medications

If insomnia continues to persist, we can prescribe targeted sleep medication. When used along with a gradual reduction plan, can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed. The sleep medications you need might be different from someone else’s. It’s smart to chat with your healthcare provider if just the tapering plan isn’t completely helping your insomnia.

Sleep Hygiene

Certain behavioral practices can aid in treating insomnia during detox as well. These include:

  • Setting a certain time to go to sleep each night
  • Avoiding stimulating activities in the hour before bed, such as television or social media
  • Not drinking caffeine in the evening
  • Avoiding napping during the day
  • Make sure your bedroom is dark and comfortable

We call this term “sleep hygiene.” When used with medical treatment for alcohol withdrawal insomnia, they can help you sleep better every night during detox.

How Long Does Insomnia Last After Quitting Drinking?

For most people, insomnia and alcohol withdrawal will end after about a week. However, some people may continue to experience insomnia related to their alcohol use disorder for weeks or months. People can enhance their sleep during recovery by using sleep medication or trying cognitive-behavioral therapies for insomnia, which are known to be effective.

People experiencing insomnia long after the acute withdrawal phase may be experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome. This syndrome can persist for several months because of long-term brain alterations caused by alcohol use disorder. With time, the brain will recover from this syndrome. Seeking counseling services can be helpful during this period.

In-Home Alcohol Detox with Kinkaid Private Care

Do not face severe alcohol withdrawal alone. This does not mean someone should be admitted to a hospital or detox facility. Kinkaid Private Care can send medical and mental health experts to your home so you can detox from alcohol right there.

Contact our team by calling us directly at 866-337-4596, or by filling out our confidential contact form below. Our team, led by experienced clinicians, has been helping folks beat substance use issues for years. We’re here to guide you through the initial phase of recovery. Overcoming alcoholism is possible, and the team at Kinkaid Private Care can show you the way.

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How Long Fentanyl Stays in Your System

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

The opioid epidemic has become even more devastating due to the increased presence of fentanyl in illicit painkillers, cocaine, and heroin. Fentanyl is a synthetic prescription-only opioid painkiller that’s 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. Because of its extreme potency,  fentanyl can easily cause a fatal overdose. 

Fentanyl abuse has been on the rise over the last several years and with it has come a wave of overdoses and deaths by overdose. The difference between a safe dose of fentanyl and a fatal overdose is very small and it takes surprisingly little fentanyl to kill. Depending on a person’s tolerance, as little as 2 milligrams of fentanyl can cause a fatal overdose, compared to the 30 milligrams to 100 milligrams needed for heroin. A fentanyl overdose is fast and can start within seconds. 

Most deaths from fentanyl overdose have been caused by people taking other drugs, like heroin or cocaine that have been contaminated with fentanyl. 

What Does Fentanyl Do? 

Fentanyl is an analgesic that relieves severe, long-lasting pain. It’s also used to control breakthrough pain that accompanies cancer but can also be used to control chronic high-level debilitating pain that comes from other causes. 

Like all opioids, fentanyl works within the brain. Molecules of fentanyl attach themselves to specialized receptor sites on brain cells that control the perception of pain. When fentanyl binds to these tiny receptor sites, a person’s sense of pain is temporarily decreased or shut off entirely.  Fentanyl also causes the release of the neurochemical dopamine, the primary chemical used in the brain’s learning and reward center. Increased levels of dopamine not only reduce pain but also produce an intense feeling of well-being, even euphoria. 

Fentanyl is much more efficient and far more powerful than other opioids in two ways: it penetrates brain tissue more effectively and binds more strongly to the cells responsible for our ability to feel pain. This means it takes smaller doses of fentanyl to control pain than other opioids. It also takes effect more rapidly. 

The same qualities that make fentanyl an effective painkiller can also make it dangerous when it’s not taken in a controlled medical setting. Fentanyl affects areas of the brain that control heart rate, breathing, and consciousness. Just as fentanyl slows or halts the working of the brain cells that allow us to perceive pain, fentanyl can also slow the brain tissue that keeps us breathing and our hearts beating. 

There are numerous ways fentanyl can be delivered into a person’s system. They include: 

  • Skin patches (Duragesic®, APO-fentanyl®)
  • Lollipops and lozenges (Actiq®) 
  • Tablets 
  • Injections (Sublimaze®) 

Fentanyl purchased on the street or as a contaminant in other street drugs like cocaine is usually a powder. A minute amount of fentanyl is sufficient to kill a healthy adult, especially if that person has little tolerance to opioids.  

In recent years, many kinds of illicit drugs have been found to be contaminated with fentanyl,  including cocaine, benzodiazepines, and amphetamines purchased on the street. 

What are the Side Effects of Fentanyl? 

Fentanyl’s main effect is pain relief. However, in those who aren’t suffering intense pain,  fentanyl produces a powerful sense of euphoria and well-being. 

Typical Side Effects of Fentanyl 

• Constipation 

• Nausea, stomachache  

• Drowsiness, sleepiness 

• Problems sleeping, including insomnia 

• Headache, dizziness 

• Feeling cold 

• Excessive sweating 

Signs of Fentanyl Overdose 

Like all opioids, fentanyl has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Fentanyl is also easy to overdose on, with many overdoses leading to death. Death from a fentanyl overdose typically occurs because a person’s respiration becomes increasingly shallow, then stops altogether. 

The following are the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose: 

• Small or pinpoint pupils 

• Shallow, slow, or erratic breathing 

• Awake but unresponsive 

• Unconsciousness 

• Limp body, poor muscle tone 

• Slow or erratic heartbeat

• Choking, gasping, or rattling sounds when breathing 

• Vomiting 

• Gray, ashy or bluish skin 

• Clammy skin 

An overdose of fentanyl causes a condition called hypoxia. In hypoxia, the body’s tissues become starved of oxygen and stop working properly, then fail. However, the brain can only survive without oxygen for a couple of minutes before permanent damage is done. 

How Fentanyl Addiction Happens 

With continued use of fentanyl, over time it takes ever-increasing higher doses to get the same effect that a lower dose once delivered. As with all opioids, fentanyl abuse leads to the sophisticated pleasure, learning, and reward pathways of the brain being “re-wired,” so that only the presence of fentanyl can trigger the release of dopamine. 

Even more concerning is that with consistent abuse of fentanyl, the brain’s ability to make dopamine decreases, leading to an overall lowered ability to tolerate pain throughout the body. In turn, people end up taking more and more fentanyl to suppress pain. 

This vicious cycle can be broken through a process called recovery. Recovery from addiction is much more than simply abstaining from fentanyl. It entails a person being able to live a  satisfying life without chemical abuse. 

How Can You Safely Stop Taking Fentanyl?  

Recovery from addiction requires a process called detoxification. Detoxification is the process in which all of the drug or drugs in question and their byproducts completely leave a person’s body.  It is the first step toward recovery from addiction. 

If you’ve been taking fentanyl as prescribed by a medical professional for a couple of weeks or less, you can safely stop taking it once your prescription runs out. However, there are other safe ways to stop taking fentanyl for those who’ve been taking it over a longer period. 

One safe approach to quitting fentanyl is called a drug taper. Tapering is a lengthy process in which a person who’s been taking fentanyl over a long period slowly and incrementally decreases their levels of fentanyl intake. The end goal is to eliminate all fentanyl use. A taper needs to occur with the help of medical professionals trained in addiction detoxification.  

Reducing one’s intake of fentanyl requires daily medical support to calculate and administer the correct decreasing dosage schedule, as well as to assure that quitting fentanyl occurs with as little 

discomfort as possible. Tapering is a reliable and safe method to detoxify from fentanyl only if overseen by a medical professional.  

Medically Assisted Detox from Fentanyl 

Another approach that’s a safe method for quitting fentanyl is a medically assisted opioid detox. A  medically supported detoxification takes less time than a taper and can be carried out at home. 

In a medically assisted detox, a person is supported with medication provided by a medical professional that reduces the symptoms of withdrawal. Other medications can alleviate the intense cravings for fentanyl that are part of detoxification. These medicines include methadone,  Suboxone, or buprenorphine, which can be given on a time-limited basis.  

Going “cold turkey,” or suddenly stopping one’s use of fentanyl without medication for withdrawal causes painful, acute fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and should never be attempted.  After using fentanyl—or any opioid for a long time, the body becomes dependent on it for its regular functions, particularly the production of the neurochemicals that the brain uses to govern every aspect of our thoughts, feelings, and perceptions.  

Going cold turkey also impairs sustaining functions, like how our bodies keep our heart rate,  respiration, and blood pressure steady and healthy. This happens because fentanyl becomes the chemical “cue” that vital neurological and systemic processes rely on to work correctly. 

No one should attempt to stop taking fentanyl without help from a medical professional. 

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms 

When a person is dependent on fentanyl, being unable to get it leads to withdrawal. Acute withdrawal from opioids is painful and can be dangerous.  

These are the most typical physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal: 

• Stomach cramps 

• Diarrhea  

• Muscle aches and pains, often severe 

• Involuntary leg movements  

• Tremors 

• Sweating 

• Chills 

• Problems breathing 

• Hypertension (blood pressure may become dangerously high)

• Rapid heartbeat 

• Excess sweating 

• Watery eyes, runny nose 

• Yawning 

A person’s psychological state also suffers during withdrawal from fentanyl. These symptoms  include: 

• Anxiety, panic attacks 

• Cravings for fentanyl, which may be intense or overpowering 

• Mood swings 

• Depression 

• Problems concentrating 

Note that addiction to fentanyl, like all addictions, is progressive—that is, a person will require more and more of the drug to attempt to get the same effect, but sooner or later, will be unable to do so. Eventually, no amount of fentanyl will stave off withdrawal. This leads inevitably to a  downward spiral in day-to-day functioning and increasingly impaired health. 

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System? 

Fentanyl’s acute withdrawal symptoms begin 6 to 12 hours after a person’s last dose and usually peak anywhere from 1 to 3 days. The most intense withdrawal symptoms decrease over one week to ten days. However, withdrawal from a longer-acting form of fentanyl, such as that delivered through skin patches, can take up to 36 hours to start. 

Fentanyl can be detected on a urine drug test for up to 72 hours after the last use. Blood tests will pick up fentanyl for as long as 48 hours after the final use, and fentanyl can be found in hair follicles for up to three months. 

Getting Help  

Fentanyl abuse and addiction are common conditions in the U.S., but they’re highly treatable disorders. You also don’t have to go into a hospital or clinic to detox. Kinkaid Private Care delivers top-notch care through the services of a private detox nurse, a trained medical professional under the supervision of a physician. The detox nurse is fully trained to provide medical assistance for fentanyl withdrawal symptoms, from mild to more severe. Your private detox nurse will help ease you through the detox and withdrawal process, allowing you to stay in the safe and private environment of your own home. 

Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client. Additionally, not only do we specialize in premium care, but we also practice proper management techniques to ensure your care is organized, efficient, and best for you. 

Overall, we create a concierge medical experience for each of our clients. Our approach starts with building relationships with each of our clients and their families; we get to know you in the comfort and privacy of your home to understand your exact needs. We then create a personal care team for you consisting of at least a clinical nurse specialist, clinical case manager, and care coordinator. Our compassionate teams are clinician-led and available to you 24/7 to provide unparalleled service and attention to detail.

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tramadol detox

Tramadol Detox: What You Need to Know

Safely Detox from Tramadol at Home with a Private Duty Nurse

The use of Tramadol has skyrocketed in recent years. It is now one of the most commonly prescribed medications for pain relief in the United States. In 2013 alone, one study found that physicians wrote nearly 44 million prescriptions for Tramadol. 

Tramadol is one of the least potent opioids, which results in it often being overlooked as addictive. However, after prolonged use of Tramadol, a dependency can form, making it difficult to stop taking. 

As with any controlled substance, if an individual has formed a dependency to a medication, it is never advised to undergo detox without medical supervision. This article covers the Tramadol detox process and how you can safely detox from your own home. 

What is Tramadol?

Tramadol (brand name: Ultram) belongs to a category of drugs known as opiates. Opiates are commonly prescribed to treat severe or chronic pain. Tramadol works by affecting the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, which results in decreased pain levels. Tramadol is typically taken orally and can come as capsules, tablets and liquid drops. Tramadol can also be given via injection, however this method of administration is typically only done in a hospital setting. 

How Strong is Tramadol?

Tramadol’s strength is 1/10th that of morphine, which can mislead people into thinking it’s not as dangerous as other opiates. However, even using it as prescribed,  can lead to the development of a dependence. Tramadol, unlike other opioid medications, carries a risk of seizure particularly if it is taken with other serotonergic medication.  Once a person develops a dependence to Tramadol, ceasing the use of this medication can be just as difficult as other medications that are more well-known for having addictive qualities. 

Once an individual has developed a dependence to Tramadol, they will likely experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it. For most, the symptoms are moderate in severity. Some individuals have described the symptoms as “flu-like.” No matter the severity of the withdrawal, it is always advised to detox under medical supervision. Withdrawal can be both uncomfortable and unpredictable, having a medical professional help you through it can help prevent any adverse reactions, such as seizures or panic attacks. 

Symptoms of Tramadol Withdrawal

Tramadol tames pain in two ways: First, it inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine. Second, it stimulates the brain’s opioid receptors. 

As a result, individuals may experience two forms of withdrawal, which are known as atypical and traditional opioid withdrawal. These effects are unique, meaning they do not happen when taking other opioids. It also means that an individual withdrawing from Tramadol may experience dual withdrawal symptoms that are common to the two types.

Traditional opioid withdrawal may include symptoms such as: GI problems and upset (e.g. nausea, diarrhea, vomiting), along with muscle aches and body pain. 

Atypical opioid withdrawal may present with symptoms like hallucinations, paranoia, panic attacks and high anxiety. Other atypical withdrawal symptoms include depersonalization, disorientation, confusion and unusual sensory experiences. 

Tramadol Withdrawal Timeline

Depending on how long and severe the Tramadol misuse is, withdrawal symptoms will be variable. However, in most cases, withdrawal symptoms will appear within 24 hours of the last dose of the drug. 

As mentioned, the withdrawal symptoms can be highly unpleasant. The biggest challenge during detox is to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and the associated discomfort, as well as relieve any craving the individual may be feeling. Kinkaid Private Care has decades of experience and hundreds of clinical studies that have helped them build an effective treatment protocol that typically eliminates any associated discomfort. 

In most cases, detox takes about 5 days. For individuals who have been using Tramadol for a longer period of time, detox can sometimes last several weeks. The detox physician and nurse will help relieve much of this distress with a variety of medications that keep you both safe and comfortable.

What is Tramadol Detox at Home?

It is never advised to attempt a Tramadol detox at home without medical supervision. If you are interested in going through the detox phase of recovery from a Tramadol dependency in the privacy of your home, it is best to have a detox nursing team on board to monitor your symptoms and keep you comfortable. 

The Benefits of At-Home Tramadol Detox

Detoxing from home as opposed to a treatment center or facility has many benefits. The following are just a few of the most important benefits:

Always Feel Safe and Comfortable: The detox process can be uncomfortable at times, given the side effects of your body ridding itself of the toxins associated with an addiction. By detoxing at home, you can complete your detox while surrounded by a familiar setting and the people you love. This will help ease the discomfort of the process and allow you to feel safe.

Reduce Your Overall Stress: While detoxing can be stressful, completing the process at home can help relieve the stress of having to travel to a facility and interact with people you don’t know. Staying at home with your loved ones will help you reduce your stress levels during this crucial and fragile step of your recovery.

Receive Personalized Treatment: Facilities consist of far more patients than doctors and nurses, so it is more difficult to receive personalized treatment based on your specific needs. If you detox from home, however, you are the only patient, so doctors and nurses can tailor their treatment toward your specific goals and needs.

Enjoy Complete Privacy: When you detox from home, you enjoy complete privacy, as you do not have to interact with anyone you don’t know or trust.

Please also keep in mind that no case is too serious for home detox. So, we recommend looking into detoxing from home regardless of your addiction or the severity of your case. 

Holistic Therapies to Help with Tramadol Withdrawals

When it comes to detoxing from Tramadol, the foremost goal is to alleviate the suffering associated with withdrawal. When undergoing a medically supervised detox at home, there is the added benefit of the availability of certain concierge services. 

These services consist of things like massage therapy, acupuncture, guided meditation, IV vitamin therapy, yoga, etc. – which can greatly enhance relaxation and help minimize any discomfort. These holistic therapies help soothe the mind and spirit of our clients that are going through the detox phase of recovery.

Kinkaid Private Care Coordinates Tramadol Detox at Home

If you or your loved one is in need of in-home opioid detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client. Kinkaid Private Care is a leading home detox service provider, offering expert detox professionals to help individuals begin recovery in the privacy of their own homes. Kinkaid Private Care detox nurses work closely with a physician who is an addiction specialist. The physician guides the client through the process, and oversees the detox from start to finish. For more information about completing Tramadol detox at home, please contact us today. (877) 388-5942

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ldn for alcoholism

LDN For Alcoholism: What You Should Know

What is Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) has no narcotic effect and has a chemical structure that is nearly identical to an endorphin that the body makes naturally, known as Opioid Growth Factor (OGF). Endorphins are neurotransmitters the body produces to increase feelings of pleasure and well-being, as well as reduce pain and discomfort. LDN is considered a competitive opioid receptor antagonist, meaning it binds to the OGF receptors in the body, without activating them. LDN is known to reduce pain and fight inflammation. It has been useful in treating a variety of health issues, such as cancer, chronic pain, autoimmune disorders and more. It has also been seen to increase the production of your own endorphins, helping your immune system and body combat disease and pain. 

What’s the Difference Between LDN and Naltrexone?

Low Dose Naltrexone is very similar to Naltrexone itself, with the exception that LDN is administered at a 10th or less of the standard dose of Naltrexone. LDN comes in many forms, depending on the need for use, LDN is administered as a  liquid, capsule, sublingual drops, eye drops, tablets, and cream and topical lotion.

Several research studies conducted on the effectiveness of LDN as a successful treatment for chronic pain have noted that administering Naltrexone at a lower dose, results in pain relief for many patients. Naltrexone at the standard dose (50mg), theoretically creates a complete blockage of the opioid systems that occur within the body naturally. As the endogenous opioid systems within the human body play a crucial role in pain management, resilience to stress and more, this would not be a desirable effect for a chronic pain patient. 

There is a plethora of scientific evidence that supports the concept that low- and high-dose opioid antagonists can have very different impacts on the body. For example, morphine at the standard dose produces an analgesic effect, meaning it results in pain relief for the patient. In contrast, when Morphine is administered at 1/10th of the standard dose, it creates a hyper-analgesic effect, meaning that the patient develops increased sensitivity to pain and an extreme response to pain. Several studies have found that there is a small window where opioid pain medications produce the opposite effect than what would typically be expected. 

Naltrexone has been seen to produce similar results as morphine. When Naltrexone is administered at the standard dose, 50mg, it has been proven to be very successful in substance abuse treatment. However, at the standard dose, Naltrexone does not relieve pain for chronic pain patients, rather it creates more pain due to a complete blockage of the opioid system within the body. On the other hand, LDN is administered at approximately 1/10th of the dose used for substance abuse treatment and has been noted by several studies, to greatly reduce pain for chronic pain patients. 

So, What Is Naltrexone? 

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist, initially used to treat opioid addiction. Because the brain interacts similarly to alcohol as it does opioids, there has been a lot of success in treating alcohol dependency with Naltrexone. 

Naltrexone works by blocking the body’s receptors that produce the “good feelings” an individual experiences when they consume alcohol. As a result, individuals taking Naltrexone no longer experience the “reward” from alcohol consumption and are in turn less likely to continue drinking. Naltrexone is a non-addictive, non-narcotic medication, meaning an individual will not develop a dependence on Naltrexone while taking it. Even if an individual were to relapse, Naltrexone prevents the individual from achieving the same feeling they were used to with prior alcohol consumption. Over time, Naltrexone helps an individual disassociate happiness and alcohol, helping them remain sober.

Naltrexone can be very beneficial in the alcohol addiction recovery process. Naltrexone is most effective when used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan, such as therapy, counseling, 12-step programs and other medications.

Side Effects of LDN

Along with any medication, there can be side effects that can occur as a result of taking LDN. Some mild side effects may occur that do not require medical attention. These side effects often go away as your body adjusts to the medication. While not all of the following side effects may occur, some side effects require attention from a medical professional.  If you experience any serious side effects of LDN, please check with your physician immediately. 

The following side effects have been reported with use of LDN:

More Common Side Effects: 

  • Mild to moderate abdominal cramping or pain
  • Anxiety, Nervousness, Restlessness or difficulty sleeping
  • Headache
  • Muscle or Joint pain
  • Nausea or Vomiting
  • Unusual Tiredness 

Less common

  • Chills
  • Constipation
  • Cough or Congestion
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Fast or Pounding Heartbeat
  • Increased Thirst
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sexual problems in males

Less common

  • Skin rash

Rare

  • Severe Abdominal pain
  • Blurred Vision, Aching, Burning or Swollen eyes
  • Chest Pain
  • Confusion
  • Frequent urination or discomfort while urinating 
  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Itching
  • Depression or other mood or mental changes
  • Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears 
  • Shortness of Breath 
  • Swelling of the face, feet or lower legs 
  • Weight Gain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other side effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Can LDN Be Used for Alcoholism? 

While there have been various clinical trials on the effectiveness of LDN for alcoholism, the majority of research on Naltrexone and its effectiveness in treating alcoholism has been evaluated at 50mg doses, the standard dose. That said, there is not yet sufficient evidence to conclude that LDN is effective in treating alcoholism. However, several studies have yielded promising results. A study conducted in 2011 looked at the effects of Very Low-Dose Naltrexone (VLDN) on individuals detoxing from opioids who were also heavy alcohol users. The research concluded that individuals who were taking VLDN experienced fewer withdrawal symptoms than those individuals who did not. The individuals taking VLDN were also more likely to drink less after treatment and more likely to continue with treatment after the initial detox period. 

Kinkaid Private Care Coordinates Medical Detox For Alcohol and Opiates

If you or your loved one is in need of help with in-home alcohol and/or opioid detox, please reach out to us to see how we can help. Kinkaid Private Care offers premium in-home services to patients looking for the best and most intensive care on the market. We only take on a few clients at a time, so we always provide specialized care to meet the needs of each client.

For more information, please visit our homepage and learn about the array of services we provide. These services include home detox throughout California, as well as in-home nursing care and the coordination of a variety of at-home medical services in the Los Angeles area. We also offer at-home Covid-19 testing.

FAQs

What drug is commonly used to treat alcoholics?

Only three medications have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of alcohol use disorder: naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. Of these, naltrexone and acamprosate have the highest quality evidence supporting their effectiveness in decreasing alcohol consumption.

What medications stop you from drinking?

No medication is able to stop people from drinking entirely. All of the FDA-approved medications have been shown to increase abstinence rates and reduce drinking quantities, but they are not a quick-fix solution for alcohol use disorders.

What is the most effective treatment for alcohol dependence?

The first step in treating alcohol dependence is always medical detoxification. This step is necessary to ensure your safety through alcohol withdrawals, and to help you reach the next steps in recovery. After detox, the best treatment for alcohol dependence is combining medications, therapy, and support groups. Together, these treatments can have an additive effect: increasing the overall likelihood that you can remain abstinent and overcome the symptoms of alcohol use disorder.

Is Naltrexone available over the counter?

Naltrexone is not available over the counter – a prescription from a medical provider is needed.

Does naltrexone make you happy?

Most people who take naltrexone won’t be able to perceive its effects. As an opioid blocker, it can discourage addictive behaviors and reduce cravings but doesn’t provide a sense of euphoria or pleasure.

Can you take LDN long-term?

Naltrexone is safe to be taken by most patients long-term. There are no known problems associated with long-term naltrexone use.

Does LDN cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a very rare side effect of naltrexone use. Most people will not gain weight as a result of taking low-dose naltrexone.

Can LDN cause liver damage?

Naltrexone has not been definitively linked to liver damage in clinical studies. While naltrexone is processed in the liver, it is broken down into inert compounds quickly, and even high-dose naltrexone is considered relatively safe in terms of hepatoxicity. Part of the confusion about naltrexone’s effects on the liver is its use in treating people with high levels of liver disease – such as hepatitis, alcoholic fatty liver disease, or cirrhosis. Even for people who have pre-existing liver damage, naltrexone is often recommended – as continuing to drink causes more damage to the liver than taking naltrexone.

How long does it take for LDN to start working?

Naltrexone absorbs quickly into the body and starts to work within an hour. The effects of low-dose naltrexone can last for between 4 and 6 hours.

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symptoms of alcohol withdrawal

Exploring The Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

There is simply no way to sugarcoat it:  Detoxing from alcohol dependency is unpleasant at the least and horrible at the worst.  As the body attempts to rid itself from the toxins associated with alcohol abuse, it will rebel.  It is the necessary evil involved in beginning the recovery process from addiction, so take the long view when beginning detox and gut it out with a medically supervised detox.

For those individuals who do not wish to uproot and go to an inpatient facility to undergo the detox process, knowing a bit about alcohol withdrawal symptoms at home is useful information.  First and foremost, alcohol detox should not be attempted without medical monitoring.  This is because there may be serious withdrawal symptoms that must be managed by the intervention of a medical professional. 

What are Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Embarking on the path to recovery for an alcohol use disorder is not easy.  Many who sincerely want to break free of the addiction don’t follow through for various reasons, one of them being the anticipation of the nasty detox and withdrawal phase of recovery. 

Withdrawal symptoms while detoxing from alcohol addiction will vary according to several factors, including the length of the history of alcohol abuse, the amount of alcohol consumed on a regular basis, the person’s general state of health, gender, and age.  Depending on these factors, the withdrawal phase experienced will be one of three levels of severity: mild, moderate, or severe.

Withdrawal symptoms will begin to emerge about 6-12 hours following the last drink consumed.  Symptoms will peak on days 2 and 3, and then begin to subside gradually over the next several days.  Psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, may persist for weeks.

Mild Withdrawal Symptoms:

  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal Distress
  • Agitation
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Tremors
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Mood Swings

Moderate Withdrawal Symptoms:

  • Sweating
  • Irregular Heart Rate
  • Irritability
  • Mood Disturbances
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Increased Body Temperature
  • Heightened Respiration Rate
  • Confusion

Severe Withdrawal Symptoms: Delirium Tremens (DTs)

  • Fever
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Seizures

Depression and Insomnia are commonly experienced at all levels of withdrawals from alcohol detox.

Detoxing from alcohol, can pose serious, even life-threatening risks if undertaken without medical supervision.  Alcohol withdrawal and detox from alcohol should involve a trained in-home detox nurse who can monitor vitals and administer medications as needed.

Kinkaid Private Nursing Care Coordinates Professional Alcohol Detox at Home

Kinkaid Private Care will connect you to a qualified and trained in-home detox nurse who will provide supervised detox and withdrawal services, as well as holistic therapies, within the privacy of your home.  For more information about private alcohol detox at home, please call Kinkaid Private Nursing Care today at (866) 573-1542.

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