Medical Detox

Some people need medical help when they are withdrawing from alcohol, opioids (like pain medications, heroin, or fentanyl), or benzodiazepines (Xanax). Detox from opioids, on its own, is not treatment and can increase overdose risk. When preparing for detox, arrangements should be made for inpatient or outpatient treatment to follow right away. Some out-of-state inpatient rehabs provide their own medical detox services as part of their intake procedures.

If you are dependent on opioids and thinking about quitting, you may not need to detox if you are going to use Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (Medication Assisted Treatment). Medication decreases mortality and increases abstinence compared to non-medication abstinence-only approaches. See what the research says:

Journal of the American Medical Association’s latest publication, explained.

The Pew Charitable Trusts, “Medication-Assisted Treatment Improves Outcomes for Patients With Opioid Use Disorder”

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Decisions in Recovery: Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Handbook.”

Looking for Medications for Opioid Use Disorder in Washington State? Use the medication locator here or contact one of the providers listed below. You might also find the new Washington State Learn About Treatment website to be a valuable resource in your search.

Harborview’s primary care with buprenorphine (Suboxone) program in Seattle can be reached for intake appointments at (206) 744-2332

Ideal Options provides Suboxone in Snohomish, Skagit and other counties

Therapeutic Health Services in King and Snohomish Counties provides Methadone and Suboxone

Catholic Community Services in Snohomish and Skagit Counties provides Suboxone