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A Utah Drug Detox Center that Cares

Written by Drew Redd. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.

Ardu Recovery Center is your oasis of healing amidst the desert of substance abuse. Our skilled and compassionate team offers individualized care to help you break the shackles of drug addiction, and it all starts with detox.

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“Detoxification is a set of interventions aimed at managing acute drug intoxication and withdrawal.”—Dr. Eric Strain, SAMHSA

If you are looking for drug detox assistance, whether holistic or medically-assisted detox, our Provo, Utah detox center has got you covered.

What Is a Drug Detox?

Salt Lake City Drug Detox Center

Like a snake shedding its skin to reveal a new and fresh layer underneath, your body peels away its dependency on addictive substances during drug detox. Just as the snake must endure discomfort during this process, a person going through drug detox will experience the temporary discomfort of biochemical dependence. Our job is to minimize your discomfort and support you through the process.

When it comes to drug addiction treatment, detox is a vital first step in the recovery process, during which the body rids itself of drugs and their metabolites. Our medical professionals respond to your specific needs and ensure your physical and mental well-being during the detox process and beyond.

Here are the main aspects of a drug detox:

  1. Metabolism: the liver transforms chemicals into water-soluble forms that are more easily eliminated. This procedure is usually divided into two stages: the reactions in Phase I are oxidation, reduction, or hydrolysis, while Phase II involves conjugation reactions, which involve attaching compounds such as glucuronic acid or sulfate to the medication or its metabolites in order to increase their solubility.
  2. Excretion: the drug and its metabolites are excreted from the body after they have been metabolized. The kidneys (urine), lungs (exhaled air), and digestive tract (feces) are the principal excretory pathways. The rate of elimination varies according to the chemical features of the medicine as well as factors such as age, heredity, and overall health.
  3. Withdrawal symptoms: as the body clears the drug, withdrawal symptoms could emerge. These symptoms are caused by the body’s attempt to regain homeostasis after adapting to the drug’s presence. Anxiety, agitation, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, and seizures are some of the symptoms that might occur depending on the substance and the degree of chemical dependency.
  4. Neurotransmitter systems: drug use can upset the equilibrium of neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. These systems progressively revert to their baseline levels during detox and subsequent recovery. As neurotransmitter levels fluctuate, patients may experience mood swings, sleep disruptions, and cognitive impairments.
  5. Medical management: medical practitioners may prescribe medicine to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce dangers associated with detox. To alleviate cravings and avoid relapse, opioid detox may include the use of methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. To avoid severe withdrawal symptoms, benzodiazepine detox may involve a cautious tapering of the drug or substitution with a longer-acting benzodiazepine.
  6. Monitoring: medical personnel regularly monitor vital indicators like heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration during the detox process to ensure patient safety and handle any issues that may emerge.

How Does a Detox Work?

Detox is the process of the body expelling toxins amassed from substance misuse. Our detox center provides a safe and organized atmosphere, and our professionals collaborate with your body’s own systems.

As toxins leave, you may experience withdrawal symptoms ranging from minor discomfort to severe agony. Our medical professionals will monitor and treat these symptoms, tailoring your care to your specific needs.

Depending on your preferences and needs, we can help you manage the detox process with medication and with holistic detox therapies such as IV amino acid therapy, yoga, meditation therapy, and experiential therapy.

As the detox progresses, your body returns to its normal rhythm, and you emerge with a restored sense of clarity and purpose. 

Detox is an important first step in addiction recovery, but it is not a cure-all and should be followed by continued addiction treatment. Our rehab program promotes a life free of addictive substances, allowing you to thrive and fulfill your full potential.

How Long Is it Safe to Detox?

It is safe to detox for as long as your body needs to recover, so long as you have medical professionals closely monitoring you. The detox process can be as short as a few days or as long as several weeks or even more, depending on the following factors:

  • Your body’s chemical composition
  • Your overall health
  • Which substances you are using
  • How frequently you used these substances
  • The length of time over which you used these substances

What Is a Drug Detox Center?

Recovering from a drug addiction can be a difficult and sometimes dangerous process. A drug detox center is a medical facility that assists with detox by alleviating withdrawal symptoms. At Ardu, our medical professionals will closely monitor your detoxification and substance abuse treatment and ease it as much as they can.

Our professionals are skilled in managing a wide range of withdrawal symptoms and, where appropriate, providing holistic and medication-assisted drug addiction treatment, ensuring that you receive the assistance you require to achieve long-term recovery.

Types of Drug Detox We Offer

There are two types of drug detox programs—medical detox and non-medical, holistic detox programs. Ardu offers both, or a combination of the two, depending on your needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at the differences between the two.

Medically Assisted Drug Detox

A staple of nearly all drug detox centers is medical detox. This form of medication-assisted treatment involves the use of other prescription drugs to manage cravings and reduce the side effects of withdrawal from the original drug.

However, medically assisted detox is not trading one addiction for another. Any prescription drug can be abused, but when taken properly and with the assistance of medical professionals, drugs can be highly effective for those who struggle to get clean.

At Ardu, we provide a medically assisted detox in a calm and relaxing environment with medical professionals to facilitate the process. We use Subutex and Suboxone, which are a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, to treat detox and withdrawal symptoms.

Non-Medical Drug Detox

Non-medical detox relies on holistic therapy methods, support, and self-care to assist people in overcoming withdrawal symptoms. Acupuncture, yoga therapy, nutritional therapy, and psychotherapy can all help you with your detoxification.

Non-medical detox, according to SAMHSA, can be both affordable and beneficial for some people, such as those who are young and healthy and have no history of withdrawal symptoms. Still, it is crucial to have skilled supervisors and emergency assistance on hand. That is why, even if you choose a non-medical detox, we have a full medical detox center available to you.

Inpatient or Outpatient—Choose the Right Detox for You

Choosing between inpatient and outpatient detox depends on various factors, such as the severity of addiction, co-occurring mental health disorders, medical history, level of support at home, and personal preferences. Ardu offers both and helps you make an informed decision on the best route for you.

Inpatient Detox

Inpatient detox is a type of addiction treatment where the patient stays at a facility and receives 24/7 medical and emotional support. The patient undergoes detox in an inpatient rehab program under medical supervision. The process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Inpatient treatment is recommended for those who have severe addiction, co-occurring mental health disorders, or are at risk of medical complications during detox.

At Ardu, we offer inpatient drug rehab services and intensive inpatient treatment, as well as residential treatment programs: inpatient programs where patients live on-site for a period of time to receive intensive treatment and the support they need.

Outpatient Detox 

Outpatient detox is a type of treatment where the patient does not stay at a facility but attends appointments at a treatment center to receive medical and emotional support.

The patient undergoes detox while continuing to live at home or in a sober living environment. Outpatient detox is recommended for those who have mild to moderate addiction, have a supportive home environment, and are at low risk of medical complications during detox.

At Ardu, we offer outpatient rehab and intensive outpatient programs that fit the individual needs of every patient that chooses outpatient treatment.

Detox for Different Types of Drug Addiction at Ardu

Different types of drugs require different ways to detox. While quitting marijuana cold-turkey may be harmless for most, doing so with an opioid or benzodiazepines can have disastrous effects. Here are some of the substances we help you detox from:

Opioid Detox

Opioid addiction is one of the most prevalent addictions in America. Whether it is conventional street heroin or one of many prescription opioid painkillers, opioids are America’s drug of choice. All opioids affect the body’s chemistry in similar ways. They are notoriously hard to come off of as well, and they can cause both physical and psychological detox symptoms.

Currently, there are three common drugs that professionals use to treat opioid addiction. They are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. We use these drugs during opioid detox to lessen opioid withdrawal symptoms. Once the detox process is over, our opioid addiction treatment program will support your continued recovery.

Heroin is one of the most commonly-abused opioids. If you or a loved one are struggling with heroin addiction, our heroin detox center can provide comprehensive care and support to help you achieve lasting recovery. In addition to heroin detox, we also offer detox services for the following non-prescription and prescription opioids:

  • Morphine detox
  • Codeine detox
  • Fentanyl detox
  • Oxycodone detox
  • Hydrocodone detox

Prescription Drugs Detox

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, over 16 million people misuse prescription drugs in a year, with almost 12% becoming addicted. Opioids alone make up 57.1% of prescription drug abuse cases. Psychotherapeutic drugs are the most commonly abused prescriptions, with painkillers being the most frequently used. Benzodiazepines like Xanax and sedatives like Ativan also have a high rate of abuse. Despite a 13.8% decline in prescription drug abuse since 2015, addiction and overdose continue to be serious concerns.

Prescription drug detoxification should be done under medical supervision, as it can be dangerous to abruptly stop certain prescription drugs. Tapering off the drug gradually, with medical guidance, is often the safest method.

Additionally, a comprehensive prescription drug addiction treatment program, which includes counseling and behavioral therapy, can help address underlying issues contributing to the addiction and support long-term recovery.

Some of the prescription drug detox programs offered at Ardu include the following:

Stimulant Detox

The symptoms of stimulant withdrawal are different from those of opioid, alcohol, and sedative dependence, and there are no medications specifically designed to treat them. Stimulant withdrawal can lead to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, particularly in amphetamine users.

While stimulant withdrawal is not usually associated with medical complications, patients with recent cocaine use can experience persistent cardiac complications, and seizures and persistent headaches could be a complication of stimulant abuse during cocaine addiction treatment.

At Ardu, we have highly-trained personnel that are skilled at assessing and treating potential medical complications of stimulant use. We also provide detox services for the following stimulants:

Marijuana Detox

Though marijuana detox does not have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, most experts believe that a THC-specific withdrawal syndrome does occur in some patients who are heavy users.

Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal include: 

  • anxiety
  • restlessness
  • irritability 
  • sleep disturbance 
  • change in appetite
  • tremors 
  • tachycardia 
  • digestive disturbances

There are no medical complications of withdrawal from marijuana, and medication is generally not required to manage withdrawal. At Ardu, we offer marijuana detox services to people who are in need of a safe and effective way to cleanse their bodies from marijuana, as well as marijuana treatment services for long term marijuana rehab.

Drug Detox with Co-Occurring Disorders

Patients going through detox often have medical health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, eating disorders, and porn addiction, that can impact their overall health and the detox process. These co-occurring disorders can exacerbate addiction and vice versa.

A 2014 study on detox, substance abuse, and mental health treatment in patients with a dual diagnosis concluded that: 

“Targeting more comprehensive mental health, case management, and 12-step programs to dually diagnosed patients with a history of detox may improve mental health and criminal involvement status.”

A dual diagnosis treatment program is the best form of addiction therapy for people with co-occurring disorders. During and after detox, our dual diagnosis services are focused on relapse prevention and personalized treatment, including mental health services and trauma therapy that aim to uncover the underlying causes of addiction and help you manage your mental health disorder.

Drug Detox During Pregnancy

“For the pregnant drug abuser committed to cessation of drug use, detoxification followed by drug free living leads to a statistically significant improvement in birth outcome.” (Aboagye, et al.

When pregnant women struggle with drug abuse, they require special medical treatment. A pregnant woman’s drug detox program must take into account the particular physical changes that occur during pregnancy, as well as the potential dangers to both the mother and the fetus.

Here are some substance-specific issues to be aware of for pregnant women contemplating detox. These findings are from the “Treatment Improvement Protocol” (TIP) Series, No. 45, SAMHSA.

  • Opioids: due to the dangers of miscarriage, preterm labor, and fetal distress, pregnant women should not undertake opiate detoxification. Instead, they should be started on a consistent methadone maintenance program, with doses established individually and potentially raised as the pregnancy continues.
  • Benzodiazepines: to avoid fetal withdrawal and other severe adverse effects, detoxing from benzodiazepines should be done gradually. Detoxification is most likely safer throughout the second trimester.
  • Stimulants: for pregnant and nonpregnant women, detoxification from stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamines follows the same principles. While there is no particular pharmacotherapy for tapering stimulant usage, any drugs used to treat withdrawal symptoms should be reviewed with the patient.
  • Solvents: pregnant women who have a history of solvent usage should have their fetal development reviewed and monitored, since exposure can cause symptoms comparable to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
  • Nicotine: pregnant women should be educated about the dangers of smoking during pregnancy, and ideally, they should be discouraged from smoking. If behavioral therapies fail, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) may be administered after the patient has been informed of the potential hazards and benefits.
  • Marijuana, anabolic steroids, and club drugs: the detoxification process for these drugs is the same for pregnant and nonpregnant women. Anabolic steroid usage during pregnancy is uncommon but can be disastrous; if use is detected, a thorough ultrasound check is recommended. Certain club drugs, like ecstasy, have been linked to an increased risk of congenital abnormalities in newborns.

After Detox: Your Rehab Journey

Successful detoxification…is only the first stage of addiction treatment.” Dr. Eric Strain, SAMHSA

Detox is an important step in your recovery journey, but it’s only the first step. Rehab empowers you to address the underpinnings of addiction and start on the path of freedom and sobriety. We are by your side during detox, and after detox as you enter rehab. Our medical professionals provide continuity of care and make sure you receive individualized and comprehensive treatment even after the detoxification process is complete.

Start Your Drug Addiction Recovery Journey with Ardu Recovery Center

Ardu Recovery Center is a cutting-edge treatment facility located in Utah’s magnificent Wasatch Mountains. With modern and spotless facilities, clients may enjoy a variety of exquisite amenities, such as a float spa, vibroacoustic lounge, full gym, and sauna, during their stay.

And thanks to our 24/7 medical staff and hospital-level care, clients come to Ardu with the peace of mind of knowing their detox and recovery will be extraordinary.

Drew Redd

Drew Redd is the executive director of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.

FAQ on Drug Detox

What are the 3 methods of detoxification?

There are generally three methods of alcohol or drug detox:

  1. cold turkey detox without the use of medication
  2. tapering off or gradually reducing the dosage of the substance without the use of medication
  3. medically supervised detox with the use of medications to manage physical and psychological withdrawal and detox symptoms

The optimal drugs and alcohol detox method will depend on the type of substance, the duration and intensity of use, as well as the overall health status of the patient. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the most appropriate method of detox for you.

What is involved in detoxification of drugs?

Drug detox requires a number of complex bodily processes that cleanse the body of the toxins and metabolites produced by drug use. These activities take place in metabolic pathways, organ systems, and cellular functions.

Drug detox consists of two major stages that occur concurrently:

  1. Metabolism: the process through which the body converts a substance into metabolites that can be eliminated.
  2. Excretion: the metabolites of the drug are excreted by the body through the kidneys (urine), lungs (breath), and the digestive system (feces).

Detox is a critical step on the road to recovery, and it requires a thorough grasp of the drug’s pharmacokinetics, the patient’s physiology, and any issues that may arise during the process.

What is the University of Utah Health Bridge Program?

The University of Utah Health Bridge Program is a treatment program for substance use disorders that provides comprehensive care for individuals struggling with addiction in Utah.

The program offers various services, including medical detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, individual and group therapy, case management, and aftercare planning.

Does Ardu offer alcohol rehab?

Yes, Ardu offers services for both alcohol and drug abuse. If you want to start your sobriety journey, we can help you manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms with our alcohol detox services. We also offer alcohol addiction treatment that gets you the long-term help and resources you need to stay sober. 

Can I detox at home?

While you can detox at home, it is not advisable to do so without the guidance and support of an addiction professional.

The drug and alcohol detox process can be mentally and physically excruciating, and a drug and alcohol detox center can provide different levels of care you or your loved one need to get through the process.

Plus, entry into treatment and exchanging information with medical personnel can inform you on the next steps in your recovery and provide guidance to help you find the right resources to keep you sober. These can be in the form of support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous, or sober living facilities.

How much does drug rehab cost?

The cost of drug rehab can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of treatment program, the length of stay, the location, and the amenities provided. In general, inpatient drug rehab programs tend to be more expensive than outpatient programs.

On average, the cost of drug rehab can range from around a thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. The cost may be covered by insurance, and some facilities offer sliding scale fees or financial assistance for those who cannot afford treatment.

To see if your insurance covers rehab at Ardu facilities, take a look at our rehab insurance coverage page.

Does Ardu have a men’s and a women’s detox center?

Yes, at Ardu, we have a men’s detox center and a women’s detox center. We also offer a men’s rehab, as well as a women’s rehab as long-term drugs or alcohol treatment plans.

Does Ardu offer an online therapy program?

No, Ardu does not offer an online therapy program. All our therapy services are done in our inpatient rehab center.

What is a rapid detox plan?

A rapid detox program is a medical detox program offered by some detox treatment centers. It is designed to speed up the detox process for patients who are dependent on opioids or other drugs. During rapid detox, the person is placed under general anesthesia, and medications are administered to speed up the withdrawal process.

The goal of rapid detox is to shorten the duration of withdrawal symptoms, which can be painful and uncomfortable, and to reduce the overall time spent detoxing. However, the procedure is controversial and not widely accepted in the medical community, as it may be associated with higher rates of complications and relapse compared to traditional detoxification methods.

Rapid detox should only be performed by qualified medical professionals in a reputable healthcare facility, and individuals considering this procedure should carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Is animal-assisted therapy good for addiction recovery?

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has shown promise as a complementary treatment for addiction recovery, and many drug rehab centers offer this form of therapy. AAT can help reduce stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts, while improving mood, self-esteem, and social support. However, it should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based addiction treatment and should be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

What is the Treatment Improvement Protocol?

The Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) is a series of best-practice guidelines developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to assist healthcare professionals in the treatment of substance use disorders.

TIP includes evidence-based approaches for addiction treatment, such as different behavioral health approaches to therapy and family therapy. The latter can help individuals in recovery by involving family members in the treatment process and addressing family dynamics that may contribute to substance use.

What are some common types of treatment for drug rehab?

There are several types of psychotherapy used in drug rehab, but two of the most common are dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

DBT emphasizes the development of coping skills, emotional regulation, and mindfulness, while CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative patterns of thought and behavior.

Both therapies have been shown to be effective in helping patients manage drug addiction, and we offer both at Ardu. We also offer EMDR therapy, which is also a popular choice for drug addiction treatment.

Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy on 4/30/23