Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Medical Detox Centre in Scotland, UK

Medically Managed Detox Treatment

Our 24/7 medical team provide safe, effective and caring detox from drugs and alcohol.

01721 546 263 Book Free Assessment

Page Clinically Reviewed on 26 August 20241 August 2025 by Kerry Canning, MBChB | Medical Editor

Residential Detox Clinic Serving Scotland and the UK

Detoxification, also known as detox, is a critical step in drug or alcohol addiction recovery for some patients. However, for many people struggling with substance addiction, it poses a significant hurdle. Distressing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms can hinder efforts to reduce or stop substance misuse. 

At Castle Craig, we recognise that understanding this struggle can inform and enhance effective residential medically managed detox treatment for patients on their journey towards recovery. Our clinical team provides dedicated mental health support throughout detox, addressing emotional distress and co-occurring conditions with compassion and clinical expertise. We use medication only with the utmost responsibility (if needed), carefully tailoring prescriptions to individual needs and prioritising patient safety at every stage. Call us on 01721 546 263 to speak with a member of our clinical team in confidence.

Key Takeaways 

• Detoxification, or detox, refers to the medical interventions used to support individuals during acute intoxication or substance withdrawal.
• The process of detoxification involves clearing the body of toxins related to substance misuse. 
• Detoxification can be a crucial first step in addiction recovery, but should not be viewed as a standalone treatment for substance misuse.¹ 
• At Castle Craig, we provide a medically managed detox within our dedicated 11-bed detox unit. Our friendly and experienced team of health professionals are there 24/7 to support you through the challenges of alcohol and drug detox.
• Our detox specialists have extensive training and are experienced in delivering expert care and promoting safety and comfort during detox. 
• The duration of the detox process can vary according to various factors including the substance used and the severity of dependence.⁷
• We recognise that a comprehensive and personalised approach to addiction treatment promotes lasting sobriety in recovery. This is why, after detox, we engage our patients in evidence-based rehab therapies aimed at managing the psychological, emotional and behavioural aspects of addiction. 

What is Drug or Alcohol Detoxification? 

The term ‘detoxification’ encompasses a set of medical interventions used to support someone through acute intoxication or withdrawal. It describes a clearing of toxins from the body in someone who is acutely intoxicated or dependent on a misused substance.

Detoxification aims to reduce harm caused by substance misuse and promote safety and comfort during withdrawal. It is not designed as a treatment for substance misuse but can serve as a crucial first step in recovery.¹

What is a Medically Assisted Detox? 

Medically assisted detox is the first step in treating drug or alcohol dependence, where prescribed medications are used to reduce withdrawal symptoms in a safe, controlled environment. It helps ease discomfort while preparing the patient for longer-term therapy and rehabilitation.

This process typically takes place in residential or outpatient settings. Medical staff monitor progress, manage symptoms, and make clinical adjustments as needed. While it still involves professional oversight, it is less intensive than managed detox and often suited to lower-risk cases or those who have already been stabilised.

What is a Medically Managed Drug or Alcohol Detox? 

Medically managed detox involves 24/7 care in a hospital or clinical setting, designed for patients at high risk of severe or complicated withdrawal. It includes constant medical supervision, monitoring equipment, IV fluids, and emergency support, making it the safest option for substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or high-dose opioids.

This level of detox is often necessary when there’s a risk of seizures, delirium tremens or significant co-occurring health issues. The goal is to stabilise the patient physically and mentally before they move into structured addiction treatment.

Start Your Recovery at a Residential Detox Centre

If you are worried about drug or alcohol addiction, call our team today and begin your path to recovery with the expertise and compassion you deserve.

01721 546 263 Contact Us

Substances We Treat at Our Onsite Detox Centre

At our residential detox clinic in the Scottish Borders, we help people withdraw from many different types of substance addiction. We have experience in treating dependencies on alcohol, illicit drugs and prescription medications. Below is a list of substances for which we offer expert, medically managed detoxification, delivered within a safe and structured setting by our experienced clinical team.

What Happens During Medically Managed Detox?

At Castle Craig, we provide a medically managed, also known as medically assisted, residential detox. This means that all of our patients are supervised by our clinical team in a structured, comfortable setting. For patients who have developed a strong physical dependence on a substance and/or have complex health needs, a medically managed detox delivers the 24/7 care needed to support them through the process.²

Withdrawing from substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines can cause severe, life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens.^3,4 Medical supervision during the detox process can help prevent and promptly address such symptoms.

The detox process will differ for each patient. For example, someone detoxing from opioids will receive specific medications to ease physical withdrawal symptoms, whereas someone detoxing from cocaine may not require medication at all.^5,6

What to Expect from the Drug or Alcohol Detox Process at Castle Craig

Beginning detox for addiction can feel daunting, but at Castle Craig, we provide a safe and supportive environment to help you through this vital first stage of recovery. As a leading drug and alcohol detox clinic, our approach is both medically responsible and emotionally supportive, with 24/7 care from experienced clinicians.

The detoxification process begins with a full assessment of your physical and mental health. Medications may be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms, and our team monitors progress closely to ensure safety and comfort. Our goal is to help stabilise the body and mind before longer-term rehabilitation. Read on for a more detailed breakdown of our drug and alcohol detox process.

Arrival and Initial Assessment

Upon arrival at our residential detoxification centre, you will be greeted by one of our friendly admissions managers. They will have been involved in carrying out your initial assessment and admitting you for treatment. The admissions manager will introduce you to the medical team who will carry out your clinical assessment. This can then be used to shape your detoxification plan which is reviewed by a Consultant Psychiatrist.

Medical Evaluation

Physical Examination and Further Investigations: A physical examination is performed by the doctor, who may also recommend additional investigations, such as blood tests, to gain a complete understanding of your health status. When the doctor has completed the assessment, any appropriate medications will be prescribed.

Immediate Care and Medication: If the nurse conducting your clinical assessment has any concerns, you will be promptly referred to one of our specialty doctors who can administer medication to stabilise you before your evaluation.

Diagnostic Procedures: Early in the admissions process, a urine sample is collected for analysis. The doctor will then conduct a comprehensive review, which includes assessing your substance misuse and medical history and examining any relevant documents from your GP.

Orientation and Settling In

After your medical evaluation, the nurse will show you to your room. To establish a secure and substance-free environment, the unpacking process is supervised. This allows us to make sure you haven’t inadvertently brought any substances into the unit.

We understand that the thought of detoxification and withdrawal can be stressful; however, medically managed detox promotes high levels of safety and patient comfort. Our team of fully trained medical staff works hard to support your well-being at all times during this process.

Our Detox Specialists

Dr Peter McCann

Medical Director

Dr Giedre Putelyte

Specialty Doctor

Dawn Dixon

Head Nurse

Duncan Dewar

Deputy Head Nurse

Castle Craig’s team of dedicated detox specialists has extensive training in drug and alcohol detoxification and is committed to guiding you through each step of the process. They understand the challenges that can occur during detox and are prepared with various techniques aimed at making your experience as comfortable as possible. Our team’s compassionate approach helps to ensure that you never feel alone or overwhelmed during this critical period.

Our therapists and medical professionals are highly qualified and experienced in substance misuse treatment. They are experienced in a wide range of therapies and many are registered with BACP or COSCA or have other qualifications in psychotherapy and/or mental health. Many have recovered from addiction themselves. Medical treatment at Castle Craig is overseen by our medical director Dr Peter McCann, MBBS, MSc, MRCPsych.

The Importance of Safety During Detox

Safety is a vital consideration during any detox process. As the body has become dependent on a substance, its absence can lead to severe, or even life-threatening, withdrawal symptoms.⁷ 

Detoxing in a supervised and controlled setting, like the Kirkurd unit at Castle Craig, is recommended for closely monitoring symptoms and easing discomfort. In these settings, medical staff can intervene if necessary to relieve uncomfortable withdrawal effects.

A well-managed, supportive and effective detox process not only promotes safety and comfort but also significantly reduces the patient’s risk of relapse. At Castle Craig, our detox programme integrates medical care and psychological support to ensure that patients are holistically supported for whole-person healing and lasting sobriety. 

What is the Medical Detoxification Process for Drug or Alcohol Addiction?

Detoxification for drug or alcohol addiction is often the first step in overcoming addiction. This carefully managed process helps patients safely withdraw from substances while providing the foundation for long-term recovery. Here, we outline the essential stages involved in the detoxing process.

Comprehensive Assessment Before the Detox Process

Detox begins with a detailed medical and psychological assessment. This evaluation identifies the type of substance involved, the severity of the dependency and any co-occurring mental health concerns. From this, a personalised plan is developed to ensure safety and comfort throughout the process.

Designing a Substance Addiction Detox Process

Following the confidential assessment, an abstinence-based plan may be recommended if medication is not required. For those experiencing more severe withdrawal symptoms, carefully prescribed medications can help manage discomfort and promote stability during detox.

Monitoring During the Drug Withdrawal Process

Throughout the withdrawal process, individuals receive round-the-clock monitoring from experienced medical professionals. Symptoms vary depending on the substance, but each stage is managed with care to support both physical and emotional wellbeing, reduce risks, and provide a sense of stability.

Transitioning After the Detoxification Process

Once detox is complete, patients usually move into a structured rehabilitation programme. This next phase focuses on exploring and addressing the underlying causes of addiction through therapies such as individual counselling, group sessions, and evidence-based treatments that support lasting recovery.

A Holistic Approach to Recovery

Detoxification is more than simply overcoming physical dependence; it marks the beginning of a wider healing journey. By combining clinical expertise with compassionate care, the process helps individuals establish a solid foundation for lasting change.

How Long Does Detox Usually Last?

The onset and duration of withdrawal effects will vary depending on the substance used and the severity of the substance dependence.⁷ The alcohol or drug detoxification process can therefore differ between patients. 

The duration of detox side effects can help inform the general length of time that withdrawal can take for each substance. Examples of typical substance detox timelines can be found in the list below:⁷

1. Stimulant Detox: Withdrawal effects from stimulants, including cocaine and methamphetamine, can start within 24 hours of last use and typically persist for three to five days. If psychotic symptoms are present, these will require medical treatment but can resolve within one week.
2. Alcohol Detox: Withdrawal effects can appear within 6–24 hours after alcohol use has been stopped. These effects can be severe or even life-threatening in some cases, necessitating close monitoring during the detox process. Typically, alcohol withdrawal effects persist for 2–10 days 
3. Opioid Detox: Withdrawal symptoms from short-acting opioids, like heroin, can begin 8–24 hours after last use and typically last for around 4–10 days. Someone taking long-acting opioids, like methadone, can experience withdrawal effects 12–48 hours after last use, which persist for 10–20 days
4. Cannabis Detox: Cannabis, or marijuana, withdrawal symptoms are generally milder and start within 24–48 hours of last use. They can last for around one to two weeks or more, depending on the level of misuse.
5. Benzodiazepine Detox: Short-acting benzodiazepines, like temazepam, are associated with withdrawal effects starting within 1–2 days and lasting 2–4 weeks or longer. Long-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, can precipitate withdrawal effects within 2–7 days of cessation that persist for 2–8 weeks or longer. Detoxing benzodiazepines can therefore be a lengthy process. Due to the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, regular monitoring and gradual tapering are often recommended.

In patients who are using more than one substance, i.e., polysubstance use, treatment approaches should be optimised to manage each substance use disorder. A polysubstance detox can therefore present additional challenges compared to a mono-substance detox.⁹ 

It’s important to note that detox programmes are not designed to deliver long-term treatment for social, behavioural and psychological issues associated with substance misuse.¹ Following detoxification, patients can engage in counselling and psychological therapies to help manage psychological symptoms and/or any co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnosis.⁷

At Castle Craig, our team of consultant psychiatrists and therapists will work with you to help you cope with mental health symptoms and equip you with the tools you need to manage psychological factors related to addiction.

What Happens After Detox?

The detox process serves as the foundation for comprehensive healing. Upon completing this process at Castle Craig, you will move into the main castle to begin the therapeutic phase of treatment, which focuses extensively on psychological therapy. 

During this next stage, you will take part in various forms of holistic therapies, which are tailored to address the underlying psychological, emotional and behavioural aspects of drug or alcohol addiction. Our expert therapists will work closely with you to equip you with healthy coping strategies to help you maintain your recovery once inpatient treatment has been completed. 

At Castle Craig, every patient is supported in their unique journey to make their path to recovery more sustainable.

Is it Safe to Detox From Drugs or Alcohol at Home?

Detoxing at home from drugs or alcohol is not safe and can be extremely dangerous, especially with substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines or opioids. Without medical supervision, some people may be at risk of seizures, hallucinations, heart complications and severe psychological distress. Sudden withdrawal can lead to life-threatening outcomes, even for those who appear physically healthy.

If you’ve already started detoxing at home and are experiencing serious symptoms such as confusion, chest pain, seizures or extreme agitation, call emergency services immediately. For those considering a safer alternative, we strongly advise consulting a healthcare professional who may recommend a medically managed detox in a residential setting. To speak with our admissions team, call us confidentially on 01721 546 263.

Does Private Health Insurance Cover Medically Assisted Detox in the UK?

Yes, private health insurance can cover medically assisted detox in the UK, but it depends on the details of your individual policy. Coverage may vary based on your provider, level of cover, and whether detox treatment is considered medically necessary under your plan.

If your insurer authorises residential detox treatment at Castle Craig, we accept policies from many major health insurance providers, including Bupa, Vitality, Cigna, WPA and Aviva. Our admissions team can help you understand what you have been approved for and assist you in preparing for your stay.

Discover Recovery at Castle Craig

With over three decades of experience, Castle Craig has helped countless patients regain control of their lives. During detox, our patients’ comfort and safety are our utmost priority with personalised plans designed to cater to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.

We understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our compassionate team is here to listen, support and guide you every step of the way. Call us in confidence on 01721 546 263 or fill out our online enquiry form – we’re ready to help you start your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions on Drug and Alcohol Detox