Rapid detox: Understanding new treatment approaches for the addicted patient

TOPIC. Despite substantive advances in understanding of genetic and biochem ical basis of substance abuse and addiction in the last decade, little info rmation has been translated into alternative treatment models for the addic ted patient. Rapid deter, an alternative form of detox treatment, is gainin g in both acceptance and popularity. PURPOSE. To increase readers' understanding of the neurobiology of addictio n and the mode of action of new deter approaches for patients addicted to o piate drugs. SOURCES. A review of the current literature pertaining to rapid deter. CONCLUSIONS. Rapid deter is a viable alternative for selected patients atte mpting to detox from opiate agents of abuse. Increasing knowledge of new tr eatment approaches allows nurses working to assist addicted patients in pla nning and receiving treatment based on new awareness of the neurobiology of addiction.