Stimulant drugs are highly addictive and widely abused throughout the U.S. The most commonly abused stimulant drugs include prescription stimulants such as Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta, and illicit street stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine.
Stimulant addiction can be extremely debilitating and can quickly lead to a wide range of serious and sometimes permanent personal consequences and health-related issues. The good news is that recovery is always possible but not without help. At Guardian Recovery we offer a multi-phased continuum of clinical care that begins with medically monitored detox. The detoxification services we provide cannot be found in most state-funded detox facilities or traditional hospital settings.
Commonly Abused Stimulant Drugs
- Prescription stimulants The most commonly abused prescription stimulants include Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta, which are used for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Methamphetamine This illicit chemical substance is highly addictive and can rapidly destroy the lives of men and women who engage in daily use. According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 1.6 million American adults reported abusing methamphetamine within the past year.
- Cocaine A powerful illicit stimulant associated with intense highs and a high potential for addiction.
Stimulant Addiction Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of stimulant abuse and addiction include: attempting to cut back on the amount of the drug being taken but being unable to do so for any significant length of time; continuing to use despite health or relationship consequences; spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the drug; and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped.
Why Is Medical Detox Necessary for Stimulant Withdrawal?
While the physical symptoms associated with stimulant withdrawal are not generally life-threatening, the psychological symptoms can be severe. Medical detox is a necessary first step for a number of reasons:
– Symptoms of withdrawal can be effectively treated as they develop utilizing medication and holistic methods
– Clients are in a secure and closely monitored environment, reducing the risk of relapse significantly
– Clients have access to a range of addiction services including case management services and psychotherapy
– We focus on rehab placement and aftercare planning, ensuring that clients smoothly transition into the next appropriate level of clinical care once they have been physically stabilized
Stimulant Withdrawal Symptoms
The symptoms of stimulant withdrawal are going to vary on a client-to-client basis based on what drug was being abused and the severity of the substance abuse disorder. Symptoms of stimulant withdrawal typically include:
– Increased appetite (which could lead to temporary weight gain)
– Excessive fatigue
– Depression
– Anxiety
– Increased need for sleep
– Irritability
– Strong psychological cravings
Treatment Options for Stimulant Withdrawal
At Guardian Recovery we combine several evidence-based treatment options to provide our clients with the most integrated care available. In addition to working towards physical stabilization we focus on beginning the mental, emotional and spiritual healing process.
- Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) While there is no designated medication used to treat symptoms associated with stimulant withdrawal, we employ non-addictive pharmaceuticals such as Vistaril or clonidine to ease anxiety. For more acute cases, we occasionally use Ativan.
- Holistic methods We offer a range of proven holistic treatment methods including acupuncture, yoga therapy, mindfulness meditation, massage therapy and physical therapy.
- Relapse prevention & Aftercare Planning One of the most difficult parts of staying sober once detox has concluded is learning to combat psychological stimulant cravings. We focus on providing clients with the coping mechanisms and tools they need to stay sober long-term. We also help clients create a detailed plan for their ongoing recovery.