Fully Medicated Home Alcohol Detox

Who this service is for

A fully medicated detoxification from alcohol is needed when you have to drink to stop withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating & retching. Because of this, most moderate to severely dependent drinkers drink steadily all day, 'topping up' their alcohol levels, and not always appearing at all drunk.

Withdrawals can be uncomfortable enough to stop you feeling as though you can stop drinking. Sometimes they can become dangerous or even life-threatening, so it may be unsafe to stop drinking without detox.

What I Provide

I perform customised home detox programmes for clients in all parts of England & Wales. My service includes:

• Prescriptions for medication with verbal and written instructions
• Home visits by me (not agency staff) to monitor your safety and comfort
• Telephone support throughout the detox
• Aftercare planning
• Open-ended follow-up contact

Safety

Most people can detoxify at home, but some with a history of significant health problems will need to detox in a hospital or private clinic. When we first talk about your drinking we'll discuss any risks. If I don’t think home detox is right for you I will advise you on the safest alternatives.

How detox works

In alcohol detox drink is replaced with a drug that stops withdrawal symptoms. This is Chlordiazepoxide (sometimes called Librium®). As detox progresses the dose reduces to zero over 7 to 10 days, giving your body a chance to get back to normal.

Preparing for detox at home

You’ll need to make a few preparations. Generally it involves making sure you don't have any commitments for the duration of detox, and arranging for someone you trust to be with you. Most detoxes are uncomplicated, but it’s best to have company, and someone to check you're safe and well. Read more about what happens before and during detox here.

Advice and support to help you dry out

Whilst medication is important, the support and psychological help you receive is just as important. People who get specialist professional treatment find detox easier, and are more successful than those who don’t. I am always available on the phone and make frequent visits. We’ll talk about the changes you need to make to keep you sober, looking ahead and making plans to ensure future success.

Aftercare

All detoxes come with aftercare planning, and some follow up either in person, by phone, by email or on Skype. Any of my detox clients can access ad-hoc telephone support at any time post-detox. Many of my clients appreciate being able to keep in touch to check out their progress with someone that knows them.

Fees

Detox treatments are individual to each client, so I can't quote an exact fee until after full assessment, and agreement about what you'll need.

As a guide, a full detox with medication is likely to be between £1500 and £2900.

Detox regimens for mild to moderately dependent drinkers will be less than this: see my page about short medicated detox

The total fee depends on the length and intensity of support you'll need, and where you live.

Find more specific guides to home alcohol detox costs by region - England & Wales