Medically-Assisted Detox with an Onsite Addictionologist

What Is Medicated-Assisted Detox?

Medicated-Assisted Detox is the use of medications—under the supervision of a licensed addiction specialist—to treat the symptoms of detoxification from substance use disorders, including opioids, alcohol, and more. Detox is often the most uncomfortable and feared part of recovery. At Cliffside Malibu, we prioritize making this process as safe, comfortable, and stress-free as possible.

Detoxing is one of the first steps in recovery. When a person’s body has been dependent on a substance for a prolonged period, the brain may become chemically altered to require it. Once the substance is removed, withdrawal symptoms begin almost immediately and can be highly uncomfortable.

Research shows that certain medications can provide effective support during detox. These medications may block certain receptors, taper the substance gradually, or reduce cravings—helping make detox more manageable and increasing the likelihood of a successful transition into therapy and sobriety.

Physical Symptoms of Detox

  • Sweating
  • Flushing
  • Anxiety
  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches or pains

Common Medications Used in Detox

  • Suboxone
  • Probuphine
  • Naloxone
  • Disulfiram

What Is an Addictionologist?

An addictionologist is a specialist in the diagnosis, study, and treatment of addiction. These professionals are either addiction medicine physicians or psychiatrists certified by:

  • The American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM)
  • The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
  • The American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM)
  • The American Osteopathic Association (AOA)

Key Responsibilities of an Addiction Specialist

  • Examination
  • Prevention
  • Screening
  • Intervention
  • Treatment

Detoxing cold turkey from alcohol or opioids can pose serious health risks—including seizures, coma, or death. Addiction specialists are trained to monitor and manage these risks, often using medications to ease discomfort and prevent relapse. Attempting detox without medical supervision can be dangerous and increase the likelihood of giving in to cravings.

About Dr. Craig Smith

Cliffside Malibu is proud to have Dr. Craig Smith, a board-certified addictionologist, overseeing the detox process. Dr. Smith ensures that each patient is safe and supported throughout their withdrawal and early recovery journey.

With us since 2016, Dr. Smith has a background in both private practice and addiction treatment centers. He earned a bachelor’s in Biomedical Sciences from UC Riverside and his Doctor of Medicine in 1986 from UCLA. He is certified by the Society of Addiction Medicine, the American Board of Addiction Medicine, and the American Board of Surgery. He has authored over 45 peer-reviewed publications.

Dr. Smith leads our detoxification program and believes in personalized care. He evaluates each patient individually, considering medical history, addiction severity, and withdrawal risk factors to create a custom treatment plan.

“What level of care provided to each individual is determined by six dimensions of addiction, factors that include the patient’s history of treatment and whether an intolerance to drugs or alcohol has developed. Ultimately, we look at whether withdrawal poses any severe health danger,” says Dr. Smith.

About Cliffside Malibu

At Cliffside Malibu, every patient receives a thorough assessment and a customized treatment plan that addresses both detox and long-term recovery. Our team uses the Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change), which includes:

  • Precontemplation
  • Contemplation
  • Preparation
  • Action
  • Maintenance

By identifying a patient’s stage, we tailor interventions to help move them forward in their recovery journey. Our goal is to provide the right care at the right time.

Cliffside Malibu offers a full continuum of care—including medically supervised detox, residential treatment, day treatment, and outpatient services. We serve individuals with a primary diagnosis of substance or alcohol use disorder, providing them with a structured, supportive environment to maintain sobriety.

For more information, visit cliffsidemalibu.com.