Detoxification is a medical term used to describe a medical procedure that detoxifies or eliminates toxic materials from the body. It is the process of getting rid of toxic materials from the body in an efficient manner. Detoxification is the medicinal or physiological removal of poisonous substances from the body, such as the human body, that is primarily performed by the liver. Other than the liver, organs other than the kidney and the bladder also play important roles in detoxification. The major goal in detoxification is to maintain a healthy level of the “good” cholesterol (HDL) and to reduce the levels of the “bad” cholesterol (LDL).
In the field of medicine detoxification is often called a systemic treatment. Systemic detoxification refers to any treatment that removes toxins or contaminants from the entire body system, not only the liver or the colon. Systemic treatments include everything from an alkaline diet to the ingestion of only organic foods. Herbal remedies and therapeutic massage are common means of detoxification.
In recent years a new form of detoxification called drug detoxification has emerged on the scene. Drug detoxification is sometimes necessary when patients have suffered serious side effects from taking prescribed medicines that are highly potent. Serious side effects can be the result of prolonged drug exposure, so in these cases it may be necessary to undertake detoxification procedures. This treatment involves the removal of drugs or alcohol from the body, and sometimes both. Some of the drugs that are frequently detoxified are cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, opiates, heroin, and methamphetamines.
Another type of detoxification is called substance abuse rehabilitation or SAID. SAID is designed for those who have a substance use disorder (SUD) and commit to ongoing treatment as part of their treatment plan. Substance abuse treatment involves participation in special counseling and sometimes group therapy. A patient will be encouraged to overcome his or her addiction through the help of professional and specially trained personnel. Treatment often includes detoxification, maintenance of certain substance use levels, and relapse prevention.
Acute intoxication usually results from heavy, prolonged use of a highly intoxicating drug. Acute intoxication can also occur during exposure to toxins, such as alcohol or nicotine. The symptoms of acute intoxication include tremors, fever, restlessness, sweating, chills, diarrhea, and vomiting.
For some patients, detoxification may be necessary due to a combination of reasons. For example, if a person is suffering from cancer that has spread to the lungs or liver, the detoxification may be necessary. Other common reasons that patients may need detoxification include diseases such as AIDS or cancer, or if they are suffering from drug or alcohol addiction and abuse. Many individuals also detoxify if they are involved in an auto accident, a high school or college student party, or if they are undergoing therapy. Detoxification services are recommended when other forms of treatment have failed.