Stopping Abruptly Can Be Dangerous
Substances such as alcohol, opiates and Benzodiazepines, when stopped abruptly, can produces withdrawal symptoms that are so severe the person cannot bear them and it seems easier to return to the substance(s) rather than complete the detox process.
Discontinuing the use of these substances abruptly can also be very dangerous. However, medication can be used to manage these severe withdrawal symptoms and minimize the physical suffering while keeping the patient safe.
Medically-Assisted Detox
Managing severe withdrawal symptoms through the use of medication is what takes place in a Medically-supervised detox center. Some centers have a medical staff on site, while others have enlisted the assistance of a nearby physician that either visits the detox center on a regular basis or the detox staff transports the clients to the doctors office.
The doctor completes an assessment of the situation that usually includes blood work to check for liver damage or other drug-induced complications and then orders the appropriate medications for the situation. They return to the center and the detox staff monitors the use of the medication, the clients progress and reports to the doctor.
The plan is to stabilize (determine the dose of the medication that makes the client comfortable) and then titrate (step down) the client off of the detox medications in a safe and comfortable manner.
Medically-Managed Detox Staff
Staff members of a medically-managed detox are required to be trained in CPR and First Aid. They are also trained to handle emergency situation like seizures and convulsions. If handled properly a Medically-managed detox center can be a reasonably priced alternative to a costly hospital detox. | 
