Home alcohol detox is a medically supervised programme that allows you to withdraw safely from alcohol in the comfort of your own home, supported by a qualified clinical team throughout. It is a structured medical programme with daily nurse visits, prescriber supervision, and a clear safety framework from the first day to the last.
For many people, it is the most effective and least disruptive route to getting sober. You recover in your own environment, on your own terms, supported by the people around you — without having to check into a residential unit or take extended time away from your life.
Who is this service right for?
Who is home detox suitable for?
- Physically dependent on alcohol, drinking heavily for a sustained period
- Stable and supportive home environment, with at least one responsible adult present
- No history of severe withdrawal complications such as delirium tremens or seizures
- Reasonably stable physical health without significant untreated conditions
- No active, serious mental health concerns requiring inpatient support
- Not currently pregnant
- Not dependent on other substances in addition to alcohol
When home detox is not appropriate
- History of delirium tremens — severe confusion, hallucinations, or extreme agitation during previous withdrawal
- Previous alcohol withdrawal seizures — significantly increases the risk of further seizures
- Severe liver disease — advanced liver failure affects how the body processes detox medication
- Active suicidality — requires inpatient psychiatric support
- Unstable or unsupported living situation
- Polysubstance dependence — dependence on benzodiazepines, opioids, or other substances alongside alcohol
- Pregnancy — alcohol withdrawal in pregnancy must be managed in hospital
A clear, supported programme
from first call to discharge.
Confidential clinical assessment
A GMC-registered prescriber reviews your drinking history, health background, medications, and home environment by phone or secure video call. Typically 30–45 minutes.
Blood tests & clinical review
Blood results reviewed before any medication is prescribed. Liver function, kidney health, full blood count, and other relevant markers checked — a clinical requirement, not optional.
Personalised detox plan
Your prescriber writes a detox programme specifically for you — the right medication, dose, and reducing schedule tailored to your history and blood results.
Daily nurse home visits
Your NMC-registered nurse visits every day. Each visit includes CIWA-Ar assessment, vital signs monitoring, medication review, and direct prescriber communication.
Relapse prevention & aftercare
Structured psychosocial support throughout. A written relapse-prevention plan before discharge. Medication options, onward referrals, and a GP discharge summary.
Frequently asked
questions.
How long does home alcohol detox take?+
Most programmes last 7–10 days depending on physical dependence. Your prescriber will give a clear timeline based on your assessment.
Will my GP be told?+
We send a clinical summary to your GP on completion unless you ask us not to. We discuss this during your initial assessment.
Can I work during detox?+
For most people, the first 3–5 days involve significant physical symptoms. Most patients cannot work effectively during this period. Discuss with your prescriber.
What if my symptoms get worse?+
You receive a written escalation plan before detox begins. Your nurse monitors daily using CIWA-Ar and adjusts medication as needed. If emergency care is needed, call 999.
How quickly can I start?+
In most cases, same-day assessment and programme start within 24–48 hours depending on blood test requirements. Call 07951 054041 to confirm availability.
A prescribing doctor.
From your sofa.
Your first assessment is a 25-minute video call with a GMC-registered prescriber. No waiting room, no clinic, no disclosure to anyone you have not chosen to tell. Four short questions, answered honestly, will tell us whether a home detox is the right setting for this moment in your life.