Drug Detox
At Ocean Recovery, we provide one of the most successful drug detoxification programmes from our UK based drug rehab clinic. Request a Callback
By John Gillen - Last Updated: June 27, 2023 | All Sources
Clinically Reviewed on June 28, 2022 by Dr Alexander Lapa (Psychiatrist). All information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

At Ocean Recovery Centre, we understand the immense challenges and concerns that both individuals and their loved ones face when seeking drug detox treatment.
Addiction is a complex battle, and we are here to offer you unwavering support, guidance, and a safe space where you can regain control of your life. Our highly experienced team of medical professionals provide an empathetic and effective approach to addressing drug addiction head-on, helping individuals to build strong foundations towards recovery.
Our medically assisted detox programme prioritises, above all else, the safety and comfort of our patients. We use carefully administered medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and mitigate the risk of complications. Throughout the detox process, our dedicated staff provide round-the-clock care to monitor vital signs, manage medication, and offer emotional support.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we want you to know that there is hope. Our drug detox programmes are tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual who walks through our doors, with access to comprehensive support every step of the way.
See this page for more information regarding drug detoxification.
- What is a Medically Assisted Drug Detox?
- Do I Need Drug Detox Treatment?
- Drug Addictions We Treat
- What Can I Expect From Drug Detox?
- Is Detoxing From Drugs Dangerous?
- What Happens During A Drug Detox Programme?
- How Long Does the Drug Detoxification Process Last?
- How Much Does Drug Detox Treatment Cost?
- Can I Detox From Drugs at Home?
- Are There Natural Ways of Overcoming a Drug Detox?
- What Happens After My Drug Detox Programme Concludes?
- Start Your Journey to Recovery Today
- Areas We Cover
What is a Medically Assisted Drug Detox?
Often described as the toughest part of recovery, drug detoxification is arguably the most vital component of rehabilitation.
A medically assisted drug detox is a comprehensive and effective treatment programme that helps individuals suffering from drug addiction to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
The process involves cleansing the body of drugs, whilst also carefully managing the physical and psychological effects of withdrawal. Assisted drug detox programmes are also monitored under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals, who are on hand to provide around-the-clock care during this time.
At Ocean Recovery, we recognise that every individual is unique, and their experiences with addiction vary greatly. That’s why our medically assisted drug detox programmes are customised to each individual’s unique needs.
Our experienced medical team works closely with every patient to determine the appropriate method of detox, considering factors such as the type of drug used, duration of addiction, the severity of dependence, and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Drug detox is not just about physiological healing. We believe in a holistic approach to recovery that also includes extensive psychological support. To that end, our detox process also incorporates counselling and therapeutic interventions. Our mental health professionals are available to provide counselling to help manage feelings of anxiety, depression, or fear that may arise during detox.
Do I Need Drug Detox Treatment?
If you’ve developed a physical or psychological dependence on a drug, meaning you need the drug to function normally, a detox might be the best option for you.
Signs of dependence often include experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop using the drug, an inability to control or stop drug use despite wanting to, and continuing to use the drug even when faced with negative consequences.
At Ocean Recovery, we understand that the decision to enter detox can be a difficult one to make. That’s why we offer confidential assessments with our experienced professionals. During this consultation, we’ll evaluate your substance use, health status, and overall circumstances to help you determine if a medically assisted detox at our clinic is the most appropriate initial step on your journey to recovery.
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94 Queen's Promenade, Blackpool, FY2 9NS, Blackpool, FY2 9NS
Landline: 01253 847 553
Email: info@oceanrecoverycentre.com
Start your Recovery - Call us nowDrug Addictions We Treat
Drug addictions that we treat at Ocean Recovery includes:
- Alcohol addiction
- Amphetamine addiction
- Heroin addiction
- GHB/GPL addiction
- Meth addiction
- Cocaine addiction
- Painkillers
- Ecstasy addiction
- Hallucinogens addiction
- Cannabis addiction
- Nicotine addiction
- Crack cocaine addiction
What Can I Expect From Drug Detox?
Undergoing drug detox can be an intense and challenging process. When we consume drugs, it will often change the number of neurotransmitters within the brain. Stimulant drugs often result in an increase in dopamine and serotonin. The reason that drugs are so addictive, however, is because these neurotransmitters typically intermingle with the brain’s reward system.
What it will be like to experience detox from drugs will depend on which substance you are being treated for. However, generally speaking, as your body works to eliminate harmful substances and adjust to functioning without the drug, it is likely that you will experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. However, these can vary from mild discomfort, such as headaches, sweating, and irritability, to more severe symptoms, which can include tremors, seizures, hallucinations, and intense cravings.
Patients who detox at Ocean Recovery can expect round-the-clock monitoring by our team of skilled medical professionals who will administer appropriate medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, our therapists and counsellors will provide emotional support to help manage feelings that can surface during detox.
Is Detoxing From Drugs Dangerous?
Drug detox can present risks, particularly when attempted without professional medical oversight.
Withdrawal symptoms related to substances can often be unpredictable and, in some cases, potentially life-threatening. However, in a controlled environment like Ocean Recovery, with constant monitoring by healthcare professionals, detox is significantly safer.
What Happens During A Drug Detox Programme?
Drug detox will always begin with an initial assessment with our specialist admissions team, who are there to understand your unique situation in more depth. This assessment aims to capture relevant information about you and your addiction to drugs so that a plan can be created as to how we can best approach and treat your needs.
The assessment will determine your personal details and any information concerning your drug addiction history. The assessment will ascertain any previous treatment attempts you have made and whether you suffer from dual-diagnosed mental health problems.
This initial assessment is typically conducted over the telephone. When your detox programme begins, the information captured during this initial assessment will be sent to a qualified staff member.
They will review your assessment notes before carrying out a thorough in-person psychiatric assessment. Following the completion of this assessment, we will decide upon a suitable detox programme for you to follow over the subsequent weeks.
You will be given prescription medications that help to ease otherwise uncontrollable withdrawal symptoms. This prescription will allow the clinical team to increase or decrease the dose of these anti-withdrawal medications as they see fit.
Generally, the amount of medication you are given will correspond to the level of withdrawal symptoms you experience during your drug detox programme.
As your detox programme proceeds, your body and your mind will undergo a number of physical changes. Your body will effectively ‘reset’ itself. Within the brain, neurotransmitters will begin to re-adjust to natural levels. This re-adjustment in the brain’s underlying chemistry is the chief cause of withdrawal symptoms.
If you suffer from dual-diagnosed mental health problems, it’s important to know that these problems may intensify during your detox. However, remember that this is temporary. The team may also determine that it is in your best interest to prescribe detox medications that are legally designed to treat these issues.
All drug detoxification programme require careful withdrawal management in order to ensure that patients recieve the best possible chance of overcoming this challening time. We ensure that patients have access to an exceptional standard of care during withdrawal management, which includes 24-hour a-day medical assistance.
Please remember that it is normal to feel worried or scared about detoxing from drugs. No one is ever left to cope alone during this time at Ocean Recovery, with our dedicated team of healthcare professionals available to provide support, monitor progress, and ensure the well-being of each individual throughout their journey towards recovery.
How Long Does the Drug Detoxification Process Last?
The duration of a drug detox treatment can vary greatly depending on factors, such as the type of drug used, the length of time the individual has been using the drug, the severity of dependence, and the individual’s age, gender and overall health upon entering the clinic.
At Ocean Recovery, we understand that everyone’s path to recovery is unique. Therefore, we carefully tailor the length and intensity of detox to each individual’s needs, ensuring they achieve physical stability before transitioning to the next stage of treatment.
Our shortest drug detox programme is designed to last for 7 to 10 days, as this duration is necessary to prioritise the safety and well-being of our patients.
If you have lived with drug addiction for many years, your rehabilitation programme may require up to 28 days to complete. For soley assisted drug detox, treatment typically lasts for 7 to 14 days.
During detoxification, several unpleasant withdrawal symptoms are highly likely, but different substances often are accompanied by different types of withdrawal experiences. For example, drugs such as heroin, prescription medication and alcohol involve withdrawal symptoms of a physical nature. This means you may require up to 15 days to fully stabilise during detoxification.
Other substances can have more severe psychological withdrawal symptoms rather than physical ones. For example, individuals struggling with addiction to cocaine or cannabis may experience significant psychological withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can manifest in various ways, impacting their mental and emotional well-being.
In the case of detoxing from cocaine, psychological withdrawal symptoms can include intense cravings for the drug, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals may also experience unsettling vivid dreams, insomnia, and anhedonia (the inability to experience pleasure), which can contribute to feelings of despair during the withdrawal process.
Similarly, individuals detoxing from cannabis may encounter intense psychological withdrawal symptoms upon starting their programme. These symptoms can look like mood swings, anxiety, irritability, decreased appetite, insomnia, and general discomfort. Some people may also report experiencing vivid dreams and restlessness during this period.
Inpatient detox programmes offer support for the physical and mental withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced during this time. Therapists and counsellors work with patients to help them understand and manage the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction. This comprehensive approach can better equip individuals for the next steps in their journey.
Please note that detox treatment is often not enough to recover from addiction. For many, it requires a comprehensive treatment programme to address the root causes of addiction, along with ongoing rehabilitation support on an outpatient basis after the programme comes to an end.
How Much Does Drug Detox Treatment Cost?
The price of treatment can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, such as location, the severity of the addiction, the type of clinic chosen and the length of the treatment programme.
However, typically speaking, the cost of a drug detox programme can range between £3,900 to £5,500 per week.
At Ocean Recovery, we understand the financial aspect of treatment can be a barrier when it comes to seeking help. Our team is here to work with you to find the best way forward, making sure your treatment is within reach. We can also chat about other options that might help, like talking with insurance providers. Get in touch with us today for more information.
Can I Detox From Drugs at Home?
While it’s technically possible, it’s important to understand the potential risks associated with home detox and the reasons why inpatient detoxification may be a safer and more effective choice.
The severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary based on the type of drug used, the duration of use, and individual health conditions. These symptoms can range from discomfort and pain to life-threatening complications, and without professional medical supervision, these complications can quickly escalate.
Research also suggests that the chances of relapse are significantly higher during home detoxification. This is because home detox lacks professional medical supervision, which is essential in managing withdrawal symptoms and potential complications. Not only that, but the individual also remains exposed to the same environment and temptations that contributed to the addiction initially, hindering the recovery process.
Are There Natural Ways of Overcoming a Drug Detox?
Often one of the first things people search for is natural drug detoxification methods. We always recommend talking to a doctor before starting a drug detox.
However, we have listed a few natural remedies that may help you during a medically assisted detox. Again, you must consult the advice of a doctor before you try and detox from drugs, as going it alone can lead to fatal consequences.
Herbal Remedies
Some of the below-listed herbal remedies have been proven in studies to alleviate some of the symptoms of drug detoxification.
Peppermint – Peppermint, mainly tea, is known for its ability to settle the stomach, and many people consume peppermint following a large meal. This study shows that the consumption of peppermint through inhalation can reduce stomach pain and symptoms of feeling sick.
Chamomile – widely regarded for its ability to aid sleep, chamomile has also been recognised in studies to be an effective treatment for other symptoms you may experience during drug detox, such as anxiety.
Ginseng – Ginseng has become a prevalent herb in several teas, following multiple resources listing the multitude of benefits that it can provide. One of the most common symptoms those who go through a drug detox face is fatigue, and studies have shown that Ginseng is especially effective in combatting feelings of fatigue.
What Happens After My Drug Detox Programme Concludes?
Many people completing a drug detox programme will progress onto a full rehabilitation programme, and this will typically occur at the same treatment clinic where you undertook your detox programme.
When you elect to undergo a complete drug and alcohol rehabilitation programme, you will benefit from many therapies. This includes 12-step work, traditional psychotherapy and modern cognitive and behavioural therapy. You will also benefit from many holistic and complementary therapies.
If you elect to complete a residential rehabilitation programme, you may choose to undergo therapy on an out-client basis.
This treatment may be offered by the same treatment clinic where you underwent your residential detox programme. Alternatively, the clinic where you experienced your detox may be able to recommend another treatment provider that specialises in out-client treatment.
Another popular option following the completion of your detox programme is to attend mutual support group meetings. These support group meetings are run by organisations such as SMART Recovery or Narcotics Anonymous.
These organisations are ubiquitous throughout the United Kingdom, and you will likely locate one of these meetings within a short distance from your home – we will suggest this to our clients once they leave us.
Start Your Journey to Recovery Today
If you or someone you care deeply about is struggling with addiction, we recognise your worry, frustration, and desire to see them get better.
Our highly experienced team is composed of compassionate, respectful and understanding medical professionals who will provide non-judgmental support and guidance. We are here to support them throughout the recovery process, offering guidance, education, and a safe space for healing.
Take the courageous step in the right direction today. Contact us today to learn more.
Areas We Cover
See below list of just some of the locations our leading alcohol rehab service covers in the United Kingdom.
- Rehab in Liverpool
- Rehab in Manchester
- Rehab in Birmingham
- Rehab in Nottingham
- Rehab in Glasgow
- Rehab in Cardiff
- Rehab in Bristol
- Rehab in Blackpool
- Rehab in Cumbria
- Rehab in Lancashire
- Rehab in Merseyside
- Rehab in Cheshire
- Rehab in Yorkshire
- Rehab in West Midlands
- Rehab in North East
- Rehab in Surrey
- Rehab in Essex
- Rehab in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right rehab treatment provider can be a life-changing decision; here are some of the most common questions we are asked pre-admission.
How do I access drug detox near me?
Ocean Recovery treatment services are ready and waiting to help you get set up in our state-of-the-art drug rehab centre so that you can start overcoming your drug addiction through the best possible addiction treatments. However, one of the hardest things that an addict can do is actually reach out for help when they need it most. Admitting that you have an issue is never easy, but the fact that you are here suggests that you have already made this admission to yourself. The next step is to pick up the phone or even send us a message, only then can we help you get the assistance you need.
How do I convince a family member to get help?
Approaching anyone about their addiction is never easy. Addicts can be quick to feel judged and threatened when approached about their addiction and by approaching them in the wrong way you can actually push them further away from getting the treatment they need. There is a lot of training and expertise required when staging an intervention and/or convincing someone who you care about to take the necessary steps to overcome their addiction.
Approaching them from a place of understanding while also remaining firm about the impact their lifestyle is having on those around them is a necessary balance. For more information and guidance on this difficult topic, reach out to our helpline and enquire about our family and friend referral schemes.
What Is Dual-Diagnosis?
Dual-diagnosis a form of treatment during which our trained therapists may implement more standardised therapies in conjunction with treatments aimed at treating your addiction. This is often done when patients are suffering from depression and/or other mental health illnesses which can be treated at the same time as your addiction. Often times addiction can mask other mental health illnesses which will become more present when your addiction starts to have less of a hold on you. Not everyone will require this treatment, but it is very effective when necessary.
John Gillen
- Author
- Last updated: June 27, 2023
John is one UK’s leading professionals in the addiction recovery industry. Pioneering new treatment techniques such as NAD+ and ongoing research into new therapy techniques such as systematic laser therapy, John is committed to providing the very best treatment for people throughout the UK and Europe. During his extremely busy schedule, John likes to regularly update our blog section with the latest news and trends in the industry to keep visitors to our site as well informed as possible on everything related to addiction treatment.

Dr Alexander Lapa (Psychiatrist)
- Clinical Reviewer
- Last reviewed: June 28, 2022
MBBS, PG Dip Clin Ed, OA Dip CBT, OA Dip Psychology, SCOPE Certified
Dr Lapa graduated in Medicine in 2000 and since this time has accrued much experience working in the widest range of psychiatric settings with differing illness presentations and backgrounds in inpatient, community and secure settings. This has been aligned to continuation of professional development at postgraduate level in clinical research which has been very closely related to the everyday clinical practice conducted by this practitioner as a NHS and Private Psychiatrist.
He is fully indemnified by the Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) and MIAB Expert Insurance for Psychiatric and Private Medical practice. He is fully registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK with a licence to practice.
Dr Lapa is approved under Section 12(2) of the Mental Health Act (1983)
Member of Independent Doctors Federation (IDF), British Association for Psychopharmacology (BMA) and The Association for the Study of Obesity (ASO)
Dr Lapa’s extensive experience has also concentrated on the following areas of clinical practice:
– Assessment, Diagnosis and Pharmacological Treatment for Adults with ADHD.
– Drug and Alcohol Dependency and maintaining abstinence and continued recovery
– Intravenous and Intramuscular Vitamin and Mineral Infusion Therapy
– Dietary and Weight Management and thorough care from assessment to treatment to end goals and maintenance
– Aesthetic Practice and Procedures
Source Links
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/homeostasis#:~:text=Homeostasis%20refers%20to%20the%20capacity,face%20of%20constant%20environmental%20disturbance.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13512
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27333231/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29624410/
- https://ukna.org/
- https://www.smartrecovery.org.uk
- https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/drug-addiction-getting-help/
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