Cost of rapid detox

Rapid detox is one of the more expensive services associated with addiction. To find out more about the cost of rapid detox and if you can afford it, keep reading.

3
minute read

Can you afford rapid detox? While rapid detox is not medically necessary (and some experts feel it puts you in danger), the services associated with detox under anesthesia can also be expensive, costing in the thousands of dollars. Some studies have even shown that it may not be any more effective than traditional detox. Learn about the process of rapid detox and its costs here.  Then, we invite your questions about rapid detox at the end.

What is rapid detox?

Rapid detox is a type of alcohol and drug detoxification that is meant to speed up the withdrawal process. This is achieved by administering medications such as narcotic antagonists, which blocks receptors in the brain to bring on withdrawal faster than cold turkey would. In many cases, other medications are administered to treat withdrawal symptoms; anesthetics might also be used to render a person unconscious, so they “sleep” through the uncomfortable withdrawal. Those that go through rapid detox can usually complete withdrawal in one to five days.

While rapid detox might seem like the perfect first step toward recovery, there are a couple of disadvantages to it. First, some experts state that this type of detox can be dangerous.

What’s the cost of rapid detox?

The cost of rapid detox varies depending on a number of factors, but it usually ranges from a few thousand dollars to several thousand dollars. If you’re considering rapid detox, it’s best to shop around first, since different facilities will have different fees. Some studies suggest that larger detox and rehab facilities are somewhat more affordable, as are those run by non-profit organizations. Your individual situation will also have an impact on your cost of rapid detox. For instance, if you’ll be detoxing from more than one drug, you’ll pay more for the different drug antagonists administered. Severe withdrawal symptoms and the decision to be under anesthesia will also raise the cost of rapid detox.  The factors that influence the cost of rapid detox include:

  1. Anesthesia vs. none
  2. Multiple drug withdrawal vs. single
  3. Non-profit vs. private detox
  4. Severe withdrawal symptoms vs. mild
  5. The facility you choose

Average cost of rapid detox

Since rapid detox is a relatively new service, there have been few studies or surveys conducted on it. However, if you’re looking for rapid detox, you can expect to spend roughly $5,000 or more. The average cost of rapid detox for some facilities is $10,000 and higher.

Low cost rapid detox

As of 2011, most insurance companies will not cover the cost of rapid detox, nor will government assistance programs, primarily because it is considered to be experimental. Your best option for finding low cost rapid detox programs is to research local facilities thoroughly. Some may be much more affordable than others.

A handful of facilities that offer rapid detox may offer sliding scale fees for low cost rapid detox, however, these may be difficult to find. You may also be able to find a facility that offers financing for this service. While it won’t reduce your overall cost, it will allow you to make payments over a period of time, making rapid detox affordable.

No cost rapid detox

There may be a few no cost rapid detox programs around the country, but they’re very difficult to locate. In fact, if you’re looking for no cost rapid detox, there’s a good chance you’re out of luck. So if you can’t afford rapid detox, you may be better off choosing a more traditional detox path. Inpatient and outpatient detox programs are both highly effective, especially when paired with an intensive rehab program. There’s also a better chance that you’ll be able to find low or no cost options for this alternative.

Cost of rapid detox questions

Taking the first step toward recovery can be difficult. We urge you to look closely at all of the different types of detox options available, and make a decision based on both your budget and your needs. And remember – we’re here to help you during every stage of your journey. Questions and comments can be left below, and we’ll do our best to get back to you as soon as possible.

Get Personalized Addiction Treatment Text Support

Receive 24/7 text support right away and at your convenience. There is no obligation to enter treatment and you can opt out at any time.

Want to get help, but not ready to talk? Instead, sign up for text support to receive:
  • Resources about addiction and recovery
  • Information about our treatment process
Reference Sources:  Cigna HealthCare Coverage Position: Ultra Rapid Detoxification
NIH: Study Finds Withdrawal No Easier With Ultrarapid Opiate Detox
Spiritual River: What are My Options for Opiate Detox?
Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment: A Treatment Improvement Protocoll Tip 45
Treatment of Acute Intoxication and Withdrawal from Drugs of Abuse
USA Today: ‘Rapid detox’ a quick fix for opiate addiction?
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
Tags:
I am ready to call
i Who Answers?