What to expect at Detox 5

Day 1

We will welcome you to our hospital and show you to your private room, giving you time to make yourself comfortable before the treatment begins.

You will attend an assessment appointment and we encourage you to bring a close friend or family member to this. During this assessment, we will discuss your opiate addiction and drug history. We will also conduct a medical examination and provide more details about the treatment you are about to undergo. Our consultant psychiatrist and nursing team will be available to address any questions that you and your family members have in complete confidence.

Your treatment will begin when you are sedated and given pain relief medication.

Days 2 & 3

You will remain sedated and asleep, allowing your body to detox from the drugs in your system. You may wake up occasionally but our pain relief medication will minimise your withdrawal symptoms. During this time you will be under the watchful eyes of our nurses who will ensure you are safe and comfortable.

Day 4

Your sedation will be stopped and you will be allowed to come around naturally. At this stage, your body will be about 80 percent opiate-free. You will be given a half dose of naltrexone as your body continues to flush the remaining opiates out of your system. Patients often sleep through most of the day. You will be able to accept telephone calls from family members at this stage.

Day 5

Following breakfast you will receive a full dose of naltrexone and prepare for discharge. You will meet with your consultant psychiatrist to discuss your needs.

If you elect to receive the naltrexone implant rather than the tablets, you will undergo a minor surgical procedure later in the day.

We recommend that you are collected by either a close family member or friend, ideally someone who will be actively involved in your recovery. Our nursing team will conduct a full in-depth discharge briefing to ensure you and your supervisor are both aware of what lies ahead.

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