Medical Detox Centers
Medical detox is the first step in addiction recovery. It provides safe, medically supervised withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other substances. Detox programs typically last 3 to 10 days depending on the substance and severity of dependence.
Never attempt to detox alone. Withdrawal from alcohol and benzodiazepines can be life-threatening without medical supervision. Call 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential help 24/7.
What Happens During Medical Detox?
During medical detox, a clinical team monitors your vital signs around the clock and administers medications to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Common medications include Suboxone or methadone for opioid withdrawal, benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal, and anti-nausea or sleep aids as needed. The goal is to stabilize you physically so you can transition to the next level of care — whether that is inpatient rehab, a partial hospitalization program, or intensive outpatient treatment.
How Much Does Detox Cost?
Medical detox typically costs between $1,000 and $1,500 per day, with programs lasting 3 to 10 days. Total cost ranges from $3,000 to $15,000+ depending on the facility, level of care, and substance involved. The good news: most insurance plans cover medical detox under the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity Act. Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Medicare, and Medicaid all typically cover medically necessary detox services. Many facilities also offer sliding scale fees or payment plans for self-pay patients.
Detox Programs by State
Facilities With Detox Programs
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedTucson, AZ
Luxury residential treatment center specializing in co-occurring disorders and addiction recovery in a 160-acre mountain setting.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedWickenburg, AZ
Leading trauma and addiction treatment center with integrated therapeutic approach and 88% completion rate.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedCenter City, MN
Flagship addiction treatment facility with comprehensive inpatient and outpatient programs.
✓ VerifiedNaples, FL
Full-service addiction treatment center with inpatient and outpatient options in Southwest Florida.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedWernersville, PA
Comprehensive inpatient treatment center with specialized programs for healthcare professionals and executives.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedHollywood, FL
24-hour inpatient and outpatient facility specializing in alcohol and drug addiction treatment.
✓ VerifiedRiverview, FL
Research-based inpatient treatment center near Tampa specializing in drug addiction and mental health.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedChicago, IL
Top-ranked Illinois addiction treatment center with comprehensive programs and evidence-based care.
✓ VerifiedNew York, NY
Midtown Manhattan detox facility with individual therapy, psychiatric care, and MAT programs.
✓ VerifiedElgin, IL
Multi-accredited facility with full continuum of care from detox to outpatient.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedChicago, IL
Largest CARF-accredited Chicago facility with 24/7 detox and comprehensive programs.
★ Featured Center✓ VerifiedColumbus, OH
Newsweek-ranked #1 center in Ohio with comprehensive detox, inpatient, and outpatient services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Detox
How long does medical detox take?
Medical detox typically lasts 3 to 10 days depending on the substance. Alcohol detox usually takes 5 to 7 days. Opioid detox can take 5 to 10 days. Benzodiazepine detox may take longer — sometimes 2 to 4 weeks for a gradual taper.
Is detox covered by insurance?
Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans must cover substance abuse treatment including medical detox. This includes employer plans, ACA marketplace plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. Coverage varies by plan — call your insurance company or a facility directly to verify your specific benefits.
Can I detox at home?
Home detox is not recommended for alcohol or benzodiazepine dependence because withdrawal can cause seizures, delirium tremens, and death. For opioid dependence, some people manage withdrawal at home with medical guidance, but it is significantly less safe and comfortable than supervised detox. Always consult a medical professional before attempting any form of detox.
What comes after detox?
Detox is only the first step. After completing detox, most people transition to inpatient rehab (28 to 90 days), a partial hospitalization program (PHP), or intensive outpatient treatment (IOP). Detox addresses the physical dependence, but ongoing treatment addresses the behavioral and psychological aspects of addiction. Research shows that people who continue treatment after detox have significantly better long-term outcomes.