New York Addiction Medicine Specialist

Questions and AnswersNew York, NY

Helping someone receive the detox and treatment that he or she needs to beat an addiction is easier said than done. People may have a multitude of questions about the specific substance the individual is abusing, the detox experience, the steps for treatment or the aftermath of treatment. Below are answers to some questions that you may have, regardless of your position in a situation with substance abuse. If you still have questions, feel free to call us at (212) 410-6832 for more information or to schedule a consultation.

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  • How Does Detox Treatment Work?

    Detox treatment involves cleansing the body of the addictive substance over a period of time through the cessation of consuming the substance and through the use of medication. However, we prescribe only the necessary amount of any medication to avoid the possibility of building a dependence on the new medication.

  • How Long Does Detox Treatment Take?

    The detox treatment can take multiple days to weeks. It will depend entirely on the substance of choice, along with the level and frequency with which the patient uses the substance. Some patients may continue to visit Dr. Nathan on a 28-day basis for medication management if necessary.

  • Will I Have to Take Off Work For Detox Treatment?

    The detox treatment Dr. Nathan offers does not require patients to change much about their regular life beyond ceasing use of the addictive substance. Many patients can continue to work their regular schedule and return to Dr. Nathan’s office for appointments. Unless a patient feels a need to, he or she will not need to take leave from work. Dr. Nathan can help a patient decide if he or she will benefit from taking time off work during detox.

  • What Do I Do If My Loved One Is Struggling With An Addiction?

    Confronting someone about an addiction can be difficult. Fortunately, we can give advice on how to effectively initiate an intervention with someone struggling with substance abuse to seek the necessary treatment. The important part is to avoid pushing the situation to spiral out of control. We can break down more details and help you find the necessary assistance by calling our office at (212) 410-6832.

  • How Do I Know If I or Someone I Know Has Substance Abuse?

    Signs of substance abuse can vary per substance but some will include:

    • Frequent tardiness at work
    • Difficulties focusing or other issues at work
    • Missing important appointments
    • Sudden changes in sleep patterns or consistently sleeping at strange hours on a regular basis
    • Drastic changes in eye pupil size (small pinpoints or extremely dilated)

    Other signs of substance abuse will include an inability to complete a task or remain calm without the substance. In many cases, the individual will spend more time acquiring the substance and using the substance than doing much else.

  • What Other Treatment Steps Follow Detox?

    For many patients, detox will only be the first step. The best action to take after detox and ensure that one remains off of the substance is to seek therapy and joining a 12-step program. Gaining support from loved ones and other who have also gone through similar struggles with substance abuse will help to cope.