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Article: Alcohol Detox Research Update 2

Over time, treatment facilities to help those suffering from addiction have changed form, and more emphasis has been put on to community based services.  Those who have engaged in heavy and prolonged use of alcohol will most likely require a medicated detox as the first part of their treatment. Alcohol detox can be organized: in the community, via a short stay in a hospital ward or medical unit or at a specialized residential rehab clinic (NHS choices, 2010).

There has been some debate over the different approaches used, the differences in the satisfaction and outcome of these different approaches. A study conducted by Mortimer and Edwards (1994) showed that levels of satisfaction, length of stay and withdrawal symptoms were comparable between those who accessed detox at a psychiatric facility, and those who accessed treatment at a specialized unit. 

This may have been reflective of the straightforward detox from alcohol that most people will require. For any complicating factors or complex medical needs, detox for alcohol may require more medical support. This is supported by Raistrick et al., (1999) who advised that although more community based approaches are becoming common, it is important to recognize and access intensive in-patient alcohol detoxing services where required.

Whatever the form of alcohol detoxification, the emphasis on further support and treatment following this part of treatment is vital. Klijnsma et al., (1995) stressed this by stating that for the majority of drinkers, the follow up care and aftercare accessed will be as important as detoxification itself.

Reference

Klijnsma, M.P., Cameron, M.L., Burns, T.P. & McGuigan, S.M., (1995). Out-patient Alcohol Detoxification – Outcome After 2 Months. AlcoholandAlcoholism, 30, 5, p669-673.

Mortimer, R. & Edwards, J. G. (1994) Detoxification in a community-based alcohol recovery unit and psychiatric department of a general hospital. A comparative study. Psychiatric Bulletin, 18, 218–220.

NHS choices (2010). Alcohol support. Sourced at http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/alcohol/Pages/Alcoholsupport.aspx

Raistrick, D., Hodgson R. & Ritson B. (eds) (1999) Tackling Alcohol Together: The Evidence Base of a UK Alcohol Policy. London: Free Association Books.

DryOutNow.com provides highly practical help for people with alcohol problems, their friends and relatives. DryOutNow.com also provides free resources for healthcare professionals such as medical information and alcohol treatment guidelines.

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