Meth Detox

meth detox

Methamphetamine is a powerful man-made stimulant that goes by various street names, including “ice” due to its crystalline appearance. The drug can be snorted, injected, smoked or taken orally, and is highly addictive. Initially, the user experiences an intense rush of euphoria and heightened energy, which impacts the neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. The brain’s reward system registers the experience as a pleasurable one, setting the individual up for future ice abuse. Repeated use of meth quickly results in increased tolerance to the drug’s effects, leading to ever-higher meth dosing.

It isn’t long before someone struggling with an addiction to ice 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.

Effects of Meth Addiction

Once someone is addicted to meth they will be unable to control their drug-seeking behaviors and meth use. This is because the brain’s chemical makeup has been altered and dopamine production dwindles. 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

Meth Withdrawal 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 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.

Meth Withdrawal Timeline

The meth detox process can vary depending on the severity of each case and is usually longer than the detox processes for other drugs or alcohol. In general, the process can be broken down into two main phases:

  • Crash Phase: This phase usually lasts around 3-10 days, depending on the case. During the crash phase, individuals usually experience extreme fatigue and a decline in cognitive ability. They could also experience flu-like symptoms such as nausea and sweating.
  • Intense Craving Phase: This phase can last for up to ten weeks and can include symptoms such as panic, hallucinations, increase in appetite, and more.

Getting Treatment for a Meth Addiction

As mentioned above, our in-home care specialists customize each aspect of our stabilization plans for each client. That being said, we prioritize the following for all clients:

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 individuals seeking recovery to reshape their maladaptive thoughts and behaviors toward positive ones.

Is Meth Detox at Home Safe?

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.

In most cases, withdrawing from meth is not life-threatening, however, there are a handful of potentially dangerous side effects individuals may experience during meth withdrawal. The symptoms may include:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Stimulant-induced psychosis
  • Changes to various brain structures

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 meth addiction and begin recovery.

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Who Provides Our Care?

Our care is provided by Kinkaid’s team of in-home nurses with decades of experience caring for your detox needs. Our nurses are trained to provide high-quality care in a kind, safe and professional manner.

Our At-Home Detox Available Throughout Los Angeles

Our in-home meth detox is provided throughout the Los Angeles area. Specifically, we cover Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood, Westwood, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Malibu, Holmby Hills, Cheviot Hills, Culver City, Beverly Glen, Beverlywood, and surrounding cities in California.

Why Choose Kinkaid?

Kinkaid Private Nursing 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 better 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.

For more information, please call us at 866-337-4596 or fill out our contact form below.

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If you have any questions or would like additional information on the services that we provide, please contact a nurse specialist by calling us or filling out the following form.

(866) 337-4596