Rapid & Ultra-Rapid Detox In Ohio: Risks & Dangers

Rapid and ultra-rapid detox programs have a higher risk of vomiting, infections, psychosis, and even death compared to other detox methods. Even if a rapid detox is successful, you may have a high risk of relapse in the long term.

Rapid and ultra-rapid detox programs use general anesthesia to manage a patient’s withdrawal symptoms. Patients may be sedated or in a medically-induced coma during the rapid detox process. 

In the past, some detox centers used these detox methods to make withdrawal less painful for the patient.

In 2024, rapid and ultra-rapid detox programs are not a recommended form of detox. If you or a loved one want to quit alcohol or drugs, your Ohio healthcare provider may recommend a medical detox instead.

Risks & Dangers Of Rapid Detox

Rapid detox was invented as an alternative to the painful, difficult opioid detox process. Rapid opiate detox uses general anesthesia to sedate patients while they experience opioid withdrawal. You may also receive naloxone and other medication while you are sedated.

A rapid detox can last for about one day. 

Bad Side Effects

While rapid detox can quickly manage your opioid dependence, case studies have linked rapid opiate detoxification to the following side effects:

• vomiting
• fever
• psychosis
• worsening mental health
• cardiovascular problems
• higher relapse rates

Risk Of Relapse

Studies have also shown that rapid detox treatment can have a high risk of relapse. In the long-term, there may be little to no benefits of performing a rapid detox over a medical detox. Medical professionals may not use rapid detox services for these reasons.

Risks & Dangers Of Ultra-Rapid Detox

Ultra-rapid detox is a faster version of rapid detox. Patients may be given general anesthesia and medication, and stay in an intensive care unit (ICU) for one day. The ultra-rapid detoxification process may take less than one day.

Ultra-rapid opioid detoxification can have similar risks to rapid detox. Some of these side effects may be life-threatening. The effectiveness of ultra-rapid detox programs in the long-term is not well-researched.

Ultra-rapid detox for other forms of drug addiction may not be studied or used in medical settings. Substance abuse treatment centers may use medical detox programs instead.

Medical Detox Programs

A medical detox program is safer and more effective than a rapid detox. 

During a medical detox program, you may receive medical supervision, support, and medication while you go through the withdrawal process. Your cravings, mental health, and side effects will be managed during this time.

Medical detox is your likely first step in recovering from fentanyl, amphetamines, and other forms of illicit substance use. After you finish your medical detox, your treatment provider may recommend an opioid addiction treatment program.

For an evidence-based treatment program in Ohio, contact Ohio Recovery Center today. We provide medical detox services, methadone maintenance, psychotherapy, mental health support, and other treatment options to manage your opioid use disorder.