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.

Battling a drug or alcohol addiction can completely upend your life. Work, family, finances, and friendships are all impacted as it begins to encroach on every aspect of your world. Unfortunately, if someone you know or love is struggling with addiction, it can be hard to know what to do. Meanwhile, as the negative consequences of addiction begin to pile up, it may be an excellent time to consider breaking free from its powerful grip. This post will give you the information you need to understand what a detox looks like and how to help someone detox at home from alcohol or opiates.

How to Help Someone Detox at Home

When a loved one is suffering from the consequences of addiction, it is understandable that you would want to help them get treatment. However, when approaching them, you may be met with resistance – maybe they aren’t yet ready to begin the process of recovery…or perhaps they are worried about people finding out about their struggles with drugs or alcohol. 

Can a Person Detox at Home? 

If you envision yourself in a home detox, you may picture yourself doing some Internet research and then trying a hand at a DIY detox on your own or with the help of some of your friends. After all, they do it in the movies all the time, right? In reality, though, at-home detox is never recommended without medical supervision in almost every case. This is because of the serious risks involved, such as:

• More severe symptoms: Withdrawing from alcohol or opiates can be more powerful when detoxing at home. For these types of symptoms, you likely need professional medical assistance. 
• No contingency plans: Withdrawal can sometimes lead to health complications and emergencies. At home, there is almost always no one equipped to contend with these contingencies.  
• Lack of medicine: You may not have access to the appropriate medications needed to manage withdrawal symptoms at home.
• The worst-case scenario: Detoxing at home from addictive substances such as alcohol and opiates without medical supervision can prove fatal!

When is At-Home Detox Safe? 

So, what are your options when entering a rehab facility or detoxing at home by yourself are out of the question? The best, and safest thing you can do is turn to a private nursing care center to provide in-home alcohol and drug detox. With this option, a private detox nurse will monitor vital signs and quickly give medical emergency interventions if needed.  

Professional detox nursing services make detoxing at home a very safe proposition. There is a high standard of care involved and specialized training that allows for timely medical treatment. The detox nurse will supervise all phases of the detox, communicating with the attending physician as the detox proceeds.

Why In-Home Detox Services?

Proper detoxification is an essential step in the recovery process. After all, it’s not uncommon for individuals with addictions to experience physical and mental health issues that require medical attention while on drugs or alcohol. However, in a safe, supportive environment like private nursing care, your loved one will be taken care of by trained professionals. They understand addiction and how it works. 

Besides providing a safe environment away from the temptation to use again, in-home detox services offer addiction treatment such as counseling. Additionally, the professional staff is qualified and experienced at handling every step of the detoxification process, including withdrawal symptoms and other medical needs during this time. 

How to Help Someone Detox from Alcohol at Home

One of the biggest obstacles to getting help for an alcohol use disorder concerns the perceived stigma associated with detox and rehab. In fact, people will often put off getting the support they need to overcome their alcohol problem in fear of their reputation being harmed in some way. Fortunately, in-home detox services offer many benefits that address these hesitancies, including:

• Privacy and discretion: You or your family member goes through the detox and withdrawal process in the privacy of your home. This benefit eliminates the worry of being seen entering a detox facility or having your personal information put at risk.
• Less anxiety: People are typically more comfortable in the safety and familiarity of their personal space versus a sterile detox facility
• Exceptional care: An in-home detox program involves the same treatment protocols and physician-led care found at the highest-ranked detox centers. 
• You are never alone: In the comfort of your home, professionally trained team members are always there when you need them to manage emerging and existing withdrawal symptoms.  
• Specialized attention: An in-home alcohol detox service will provide a detox specialist to care for you and monitor your withdrawal symptoms. This specialized attention offers a higher level of care than you would receive at a detox center.

How to Help Someone Detoxing from Opiates at Home 

Regardless of the substance of abuse, going through detox and withdrawal symptoms is simply no fun. But, of course, anyone struggling with addiction who has ever found themselves without their substance knows precisely what withdrawal symptoms look like, as these will set in within hours after the last dose. Therefore, it’s understandable that the dread of the detox process may cause some to push it to the back burner. 

In-home addiction treatment provides a tailored plan that includes medical supervision and medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. This approach ensures comfort and support during the detox process, helping individuals manage the challenges of recovery in the safety of their home. This service can involve prescription medications and over-the-counter medication, depending on the substance of abuse. 

Know the Substance

Knowing the substance that someone has been using, along with how long they have been using it, can be helpful with treatment and overcoming addiction. For instance, the longer that person uses alcohol and the more they drink can determine how severe their withdrawal symptoms will be, along with the timeline they can expect for the withdrawals to last. In turn, this can factor into the specialized treatment options they receive.  

For those asking how to detox from alcohol at home, we suggest consulting with an addiction specialist. Once treatment begins, our licensed medical team can safely supervise the detox process and provide necessary guidance.

Tips to Help Someone Detox at Home

When you are supporting someone through detox, your role is that of support and encouragement. To support home detox, staying positive and calm is essential. This helps create a safe, reassuring environment that fosters recovery.

Other tips to help the person detox include:

• Knowing that detox doesn’t end when the person gets past withdrawal. We at Kinkaid recommend the person go through Aftercare Planning after detox to change their addictive behaviors and reduce the chances of a relapse.
• Understanding that the physical withdrawal symptoms often worsen before getting better (Day 3-4 is usually when opiate withdrawal peaks). 
• Helping the person get their mind off of cravings by using the D’s listed below:
  • Do: Encourage the person to do activities such as watching movies or TV, playing cards, taking warm baths and listening to upbeat music.
  • Delay: Suggest that the person put off decisions for about an hour.
  • Drink: Encourage hydration, especially when it comes to drinking water.
  • Discuss: Talk to the rehabee to motivate and remind them of their reasons for stopping drinking or taking the drug.
  • Do: Get them to do some gentle exercise such as walking, stretching, yoga and Tai Chi.

Things That Won’t Help During Detox

Along with knowing things that will help during a detox, it’s important to know the things that won’t. Being unprepared or overburdened can add stress for someone detoxing. Instead, you can help by taking time off work and arranging additional support for children or elderly family members. This allows you to focus on the person detoxing and explain the process to help them feel more at ease.

On the other hand, a person undergoing detoxification may seem agitated. For this reason, arguing or taking what the person detoxing says personally won’t help. Instead, be patient and supportive while they get through the detoxification process. It’s important to discourage visits from individuals who may cause conflict or drug-using acquaintances during the detox process.

Kinkaid Private Nursing Care Coordinates In-Home Detox Services

Kinkaid Private Care safely and discreetly coordinates concierge in-home nursing services, including private detox services. The trained detox nurses are ready to provide medical and psychological support throughout the detox process, ensuring safety and comfort. For more information about how to help someone detox at home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kinkaid Private Nursing Care today at (866) 337-4596.

How to Suboxone Detox at Home Safely and Comfortably

Imagine the disappointment upon discovering that the drug you have been taking to wean you off of heroin or other opioids has crossed over into its own insidious addiction.  Suboxone was praised as a wonder drug back in 2002 when it came onto the market to much fanfare in the addiction and recovery field.  Made of four parts buprenorphine (“bupe”) and one part naloxone, Suboxone promised to be a safer, more easily prescribed alternative to methadone.  In many cases, Suboxone works very well as a short or long-term medication to prevent relapse.  But for some, this drug proves to be addictive and prone to abuse.

Because Suboxone is itself an opioid, the dangers of dependency can quietly emerge.  These long-term effects were not foreseen fifteen years ago when the FDA approved it for use in medically assisted treatment for addiction.  Suboxone has a lengthy half-life of 37 hours, allowing it to build up in the system when using it on a daily basis, contributing to the risk of dependency developing.  Eventually, Suboxone inpatient detox or Suboxone detox at home becomes the next step in recovery from opioids.

Suboxone Detox at Home is a Viable Option

When it is time to get treatment for an opioid dependency, there are many things to consider.  Inpatient treatment requires a lengthy absence from home and work, making it a deterrent for many to seek treatment.  As an outpatient, Suboxone detox at home allows the individual to still have the ability to fulfill a portion of their work and family obligations while going through detox in the privacy of the home environment.

The only way to achieve success with a suboxone detox at home is to have the process managed by a medical professional.  Detoxing from Suboxone takes time, and the withdrawal symptoms are nasty, so the risk of giving up and continuing to abuse Suboxone is high without some medical supervision.  The in-home detox professional will adhere to a strict tapering schedule while treating the flu-like symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

What to Expect with Suboxone Detox at Home

Suboxone is a partial opioid agonist, which means that trying to stop it will trigger the same types of withdrawal symptoms of most other opiates.  The withdrawal symptoms will vary based on the severity of the dependency and the level of dosing.  Suboxone detox and withdrawal is said to last longer than other opioids because it is chemically designed to block cravings for an extended period of time.  Withdrawal symptoms ensue approximately 6-12 hours after the last dosing and include:

• Nausea
• Muscle aches
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Diarrhea
• Chills
• Fever
• Lethargy
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Cravings
• Mood swings
• Trouble concentrating

Many of these withdrawal symptoms can be managed using over-the-counter medications.  Symptoms peak at 72 hours, then begin to slowly subside.  Depression and cravings may persist for a month or more, which makes the individual at risk for relapse.

Holistic Therapies that Aid Suboxone Detox

At-home detox nurses can provide longer-term holistic therapies that will aid in this challenging period.  These natural therapeutic remedies can aid in restoring health while promoting stress reduction.  There is much evidence that experiential and holistic therapies can help reduce the discomforts of withdrawing from opioids, and are very useful in ongoing aftercare and relapse prevention.

Some of the Concierge Services and holistic therapies used in at-home Suboxone detox include IV vitamin therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, guided imagery, yoga and meditation.  These activities can enhance recovery as well as provide avenues to self-discovery.

Kinkaid Private Care Coordinates Suboxone Detox At-Home Services

Kinkaid Private Care will coordinate a multi-disciplinary opioid detox care team to professionally manage a Suboxone detox at home.  The care team is lead by a board-certified physician and supported by a trained detox nursing staff.  Kinkaid Private Care coordinates concierge holistic therapies to round out the comprehensive detox treatment plan.  For more information about our highly trained medical providers please contact us.

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

How to Detox From Meth

Methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” is a potent man-made stimulant that goes by various street names due to its crystalline form. As a highly addictive drug, it can be snorted, smoked, injected, or taken orally. The initial effects include an intense rush of euphoria and heightened energy, impacting neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. This creates a rewarding experience that can set the stage for future ice abuse, with repeated use quickly leading to increased tolerance and higher meth doses.

It isn’t long before an ice addict begins to witness the toll the drug is taking on their mental and physical health, as well as the devastation caused in their life. A destructive cycle of abuse sets in, including meth binges called tweaking. Tweaking refers to the individual not sleeping for days at a time who then develops a sort of temporary psychosis.

Ice addiction is one of the most challenging addictions to overcome, with 92% of those who completed detox relapsing. Anyone who has read or seen the movie version of Beautiful Boy learned about the intense grip the drug had over Nic Sheff, who succumbed to repeated relapses before eventually beating the ice addiction. It is possible to successfully recover from an ice addiction, with the first step being detox and withdrawal. When considering undergoing detox from this drug, some may inquire how to detox from ice at home.

The Benefits of Home Detox For Meth Addiction

When facing down the prospect of getting clean before going through a treatment program there are a couple of detox options available, including the inpatient detox center option and an at-home detox. For many, the idea of staying in a detox facility is not ideal, which brings us to the concept of detoxing from ice at home.

An at-home detox and withdrawal process has several benefits. These include:

• Going through detox at home offers a sense of comfort and familiarity
• An at-home detox ensures privacy and confidentiality
• Being home during detox allows the family to be supportive and present
• An at-home detox offers personalized care and attention

Private home detox nurses are trained in addiction treatment, giving them the expertise to monitor for dangerous withdrawal symptoms and respond promptly. The private nurse works under the supervision of a physician who specializes in addiction treatment.

The Effects of Ice Addiction

Once someone becomes addicted to meth, they lose control over their drug-seeking behaviors and usage. This happens because the brain’s chemical structure changes, leading to a decrease in dopamine production. Without the drug, the individual feels no pleasure. As addiction sets in, the individual’s life will begin to unravel. Legal problems, loss of jobs, financial problems, custody issues, and even homelessness will begin to define their days.

Because meth is so toxic, serious health conditions can develop as a result of addiction. Some of the effects of long-term ice abuse include:

• Serious dental problems
• Skin sores, picking at invisible bugs
• Weight loss
• Droopy skin
• Sleep deprivation
• Angry or violent outbursts
• Cognitive and memory problems
• Aggressive behavior
• Mental confusion
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Auditory and visual hallucinations
• Delusions

How to Detox From Ice at Home Safely

When wondering how to detox from ice at home, it is imperative to understand that this should never be attempted without medical supervision. Meth detox is often accompanied by emotional and psychological withdrawal symptoms, sometimes leading to self-harm or suicide attempts.

A private medical provider who is trained in detox and addiction treatment can accompany the individual through the detox process at home. This is a valuable option, as remaining home for the duration of the detox period can be far less stressful than a detox facility. Some desire a home detox for privacy concerns, while others want their family members close by. These advantages make an in-home detox a desirable avenue to consider when deciding to confront the meth addiction and begin recovery.

Ice Detox Symptoms

Ice withdrawal symptoms begin within 24 hours of the last dosing and can take an average of two weeks to complete. Symptoms will peak at days 7-10, and then begin to subside in severity. Meth withdrawal symptoms include:

• Extreme fatigue and lethargy
• Excessive sleepiness
• Intense cravings
• Increased appetite
• Dry mouth
• Shaking or jittery
• Depression
• Hopelessness
• Apathy
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Delusions
• Suicidal thoughts

While there are as of yet no specific medications to assist in meth withdrawal, there are various medications that can be provided during detox from ice at home that will help reduce discomfort. Wellbutrin, which is an antidepressant, has been shown to help reduce meth cravings. In addition, the drug, Provigil, is a mild stimulant that can help with sleep disturbances.

Getting Treatment for a Meth Addiction

After the individual has successfully completed the detox process at home, they will need to be admitted to a residential treatment program for a minimum of one month, although longer is preferred. Detox only clears the system of the toxins and chemicals associated with methamphetamine, but the addictive behavior patterns remain. The rehab program will provide a comprehensive treatment plan that helps the former meth addict reshape their maladaptive thoughts and behaviors toward positive ones in recovery.

Treatment for an ice addiction includes:

Individual psychotherapy: During these one-on-one talk therapy sessions, the individual will work with a therapist to examine any possible underlying emotional issues related to the addictive behaviors. Among the evidence-based therapies available, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be the most effective for treating ice addiction. CBT helps the individual establish new thought-behavior patterns, which act as a powerful recovery skill to override triggers. CBT can also be effective in treating co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.

Group therapy: In the small group sessions a therapist will guide topics of discussion allowing others to share their own personal challenges or stories, which can foster peer support in recovery. Giving individuals a voice, a platform where they can safely discuss their struggles with ice addiction can be a source of renewed confidence. Group support offers an environment that provides fellowship and mutual social support.

Dual diagnosis treatment: Co-occurring mental health disorders are very common among addicts. When there is a coexisting mental health condition it should be treated at the same time as the addiction for best recovery results. It is essential that the mental health piece be treated in order to increase the potential for a long-term recovery. The individual should seek out a rehab program that specializes in dual diagnosis treatment.

12-step recovery program: Many rehabs incorporate A.A.’s 12-step programming into the treatment program, while others may use a non-12-step approach. Recovery meetings provide a non-judgmental setting where individuals gain inspiration from each other, and can establish new sober friendships. The recovery community is a valuable continuing care component as well.

Addiction counseling: Classes that help recovering addicts understand the neurobiological impact of meth on the brain and the central nervous system can be helpful in deterring relapse. Relapse prevention planning is also included in these sessions. Each participant is tasked with identifying his or her own particular triggers and then creating a strategic plan of action when relapse threatens to undermine recovery.

Life skills counseling: Individuals will learn various recovery skills that will help reinforce their ability to stay on track. These might include coping skills, anger management skills, conflict resolution skills, communication skills, and more. Case management can help coordinate various social services that may be needed in early recovery, such as housing, social services, legal services, or employment services.

Continuing care services: After completion of the rehab program, individuals are encouraged to access aftercare services. These include 12-step meetings, such as N.A., weekly therapy sessions, and sober living housing. Continuing care efforts are crucial for maintaining sobriety, particularly during the early stages of recovery.

Individuals who cannot take an extended leave from work or child-rearing responsibilities may need to access an intensive outpatient program (IOP). The outpatient option is not ideal for someone with an ice addiction, however, it is available for those for whom residential care is not an option. Outpatient programming provides the flexibility that allows the individual to remain employed during treatment, which lasts 3-6 months, and many outpatient programs now offer evening classes. Also, the individual is free to live at home, versus in a rehab facility, which can substantially reduce the costs of treatment.

Can the Brain Recover From Ice Addiction?

Ice addiction may be a very challenging substance use disorder to recover from, but it is definitely possible. But what about the damage done to the brain? Can someone who has abused meth reverse the damage this powerful drug has done to the brain? Meth is one of the most potent and destructive drugs of abuse available. The toxic substances that meth is made of will do significant damage to the body, the mind, and the brain. Meth can destroy brain cells, as well s trigger acute changes in the neurotransmitters, even completely remapping the brain’s reward system. Meth can impact motor skills, speech, cognitive skills, and memory.

In recovery, it is possible for the brain to recover to a significant extent. However, the process of healing and restoring function is one that is long, taking about 1 ½ years of continuous sobriety. However, over a prolonged period of sustained recovery, it is possible that the individual will experience improvements in brain functioning.

7 Ways to Avoid Relapse 

One of the most daunting challenges for anyone in recovery, regardless of the substance of abuse, is avoiding a relapse. The risk of relapse is particularly challenging in the first year of recovery when the individual is most vulnerable. Relapse will, however, be a constant threat in recovery, so individuals need to remain vigilant in their efforts to avoid it. Here are some tips that can help a recovering addict avoid a methamphetamine relapse:

1. A continuing care plan. Before discharge from rehab, make sure there is a solid continuing care plan in place. Upon discharge, have outpatient therapy sessions already scheduled, locate a recovery community, such as N.A. where social support will be provided, and possibly consider staying in sober living for a while until recovery feels more secure.
2. Avoid risk. Identifying relapse risks is an exercise that helps the individual to acknowledge the situations, people, or places that may trigger re-occurrence. Once the individual identifies potential threats to their recovery, they will plan specific actions to take when faced with triggering situations. Sticking to the plan and avoiding known risks to recovery is essential in preventing a relapse.
3. Mindfulness. Mindfulness meditation is a highly effective tool for managing distracting thoughts and emotions in early recovery. Practicing mindfulness can reduce feelings of stress, and depression, as well as reduce cravings. This form of meditation helps train the mind to shift from negative or stressful.
4. Get regular exercise. One of the most productive ways to avoid relapse is to begin a fitness program alongside the recovery journey. Setting fitness goals helps motivate one toward achieving long-term goals. Physical activity helps produce “feel good” brain chemicals, such as endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine that boost mood, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality.
5. Have a trusted confidante. Have someone you can confide in a sponsor, a trusted friend or family member, or a psychotherapist. This person provides a safe, non-judgmental audience for someone to share, without reserve, any feelings of ambivalence about recovery, possible threats to recovery, or the signs of an impending re-occurrence. As a result, this confidante can usher the person to a meeting, engage in a distracting activity, or stay at his or her side as this threat passes.
6. Establish a healthy routine. After treatment, it is very helpful to create a new healthy lifestyle that will help support recovery efforts. This involves sticking to a schedule and revamping the diet by increasing lean proteins, omega-3 fatty oils, nuts and seeds, fresh produce, and low-fat dairy while decreasing processed and sugary foods. It also means keeping good hygiene habits and taking care of one’s appearance.
7. Use recovery tools. During treatment, the individual will learn several effective strategies to reinforce recovery and prevent relapse. These recovery tools include such things as relaxation techniques, conflict resolution skills, more effective communication techniques, and emotion regulation techniques. Access these tools regularly until they become new habits, which will significantly reduce the risk of relapse.

Kinkaid Private Care Explains How to Detox From Ice at Home

If you or your loved one needs help with detox from ice at home, please visit our In-Home Detox page. 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 limit our client intake to ensure we provide personalized, specialized care tailored to each client’s unique needs.

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