Ultra Rapid Detox
What is it?
A rapid detox program consists of a person being put under anesthesia for 4-6 hours while opioid
antagonist drugs (like naltrexone) essentially “kick” the opioid drugs, such as heroin or prescription
painkillers, out of the system. This combination allows the individual to completely withdraw from the
opiate without suffering the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. In effect, this method is meant to
circumvent the pain and suffering of opioid withdrawal since the person is sedated during the process.
After the rapid detox, patients remain in the ICU until the next day for additional monitoring. Performed
under the proper circumstances, this procedure is relatively comfortable for patients who seek
treatment for their addiction. Unless performed properly, this procedure can be dangerous due to the
sympathetic outflow however, this danger can be mitigated with proper support.