Waismann Method ®: Global Authority on Opioid Detoxification, Education, and Recovery Science
Rapid Detox
For nearly three decades, the Waismann Method® has set the highest standard in opioid detoxification, earning global recognition for its hospital-based, evidence-driven approach. Founded by Clare Waismann, M-RAS/SUDCC II, and medically directed for many years by Dr. Michael H. Lowenstein, a quadruple board-certified physician and one of the most experienced experts in accelerated opioid detox, Waismann Method has helped shape safer and more effective ways to understand and manage opioid dependence.
Today, Waismann Method focuses on delivering education, training, and public awareness regarding opioid use disorder (OUD), withdrawal management, and science-based detoxification methods. Our platform offers:
Expert articles on the neurobiology of opioid dependence
Insight into advanced medical detox protocols
Strategies for managing withdrawal and preventing relapse
Education for healthcare professionals and families
Advocacy for safe, responsible care over unverified shortcuts
Whether you’re a professional seeking guidance or a loved one trying to understand the complexities of opioid dependence, we provide trusted, up-to-date information to support informed decisions and compassionate care.
Waismann Method® is based exclusively in Southern California. We are not affiliated with any other center, provider, or individual claiming association with our name or services. Any use of our trademark by unauthorized parties is strictly prohibited. We do not endorse unlicensed practitioners, overnight detox facilities, or programs making misleading or unsubstantiated promises. The Waismann Method® name is legally protected and may not be used by any other entity.
Hospital-Based, Medically Supervised Detox: Recognized for its rigorous safety standards, the Waismann Method® pioneered rapid opioid detoxification in a full-service, JCAHO-accredited hospital setting, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes. Learn more about hospital-based detox protocols and their role in modern addiction medicine.
Individualized Withdrawal Management: Every person’s experience with opioid dependence is unique. Our educational resources highlight the importance of personalized assessment, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing support for those facing opioid withdrawal and recovery.
Sedation-Assisted Detox: Explore the science behind sedation-assisted opioid detoxification, including its benefits, risks, and clinical applications. Our expert-reviewed guides help you understand how sedation can reduce withdrawal severity and support neurological stabilization.
Comprehensive Aftercare and Recovery Support: Discover science-based strategies for relapse prevention, emotional stabilization, and long-term recovery, including the role of aftercare programs and community resources.
Opioid use disorder is a chronic, treatable medical condition-not a moral failing. Long-term opioid use, whether from prescription painkillers or illicit substances, can alter brain chemistry, leading to tolerance, physical dependence, and challenging withdrawal symptoms. Addressing OUD with medical expertise and compassion is essential for effective recovery and improved quality of life.
Medically assisted opioid detox, such as the protocols developed by the Waismann Method®, is supported by research demonstrating that professional supervision, symptom management, and individualized care significantly improve safety and outcomes. Hospital-based protocols can reduce complications, provide rapid stabilization, and support neurological recovery-key factors for anyone seeking to break free from opioid dependence.
“Understanding addiction as a medical condition transforms how we approach recovery. It’s not about overcoming weakness but addressing a health issue with compassion and professional care.”
Clare Waismann, M-RAS/SUDCC II
For in-depth information on opioid detoxification, withdrawal symptoms, recovery strategies, and the latest advances in addiction medicine, browse our comprehensive guides, educational courses, and professional training materials. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, educator, or someone seeking reliable information, www.opiates.com® is your trusted partner in opioid education and awareness.
Before scheduling, a thorough medical assessment is conducted to determine candidacy. This includes reviewing physical and psychological health, current medications, and substance use history to ensure safety and tailor the detox protocol accordingly.
Patients should be admitted to a full-service, accredited hospital at least one full day before detox. During this time, they receive hydration, stabilization, and pre-medication to prepare the body and minimize medical risks. Skipping this step significantly increases the likelihood of complications.
The actual opioid detox is performed under sedation in a closely monitored hospital setting by an experienced, board-certified physician. Vital signs are continuously monitored, and medications are administered to assist the opioid withdrawal process safely and efficiently.
Detox is not complete after the procedure. Patients should remain hospitalized for several days to ensure physical and neurological stability, manage any delayed withdrawal symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications or readmission. This phase is essential for safety and long-term success.
Patient Reviews
I felt that the Domus Retreat was the most successful rehabilitation from opiate or opioid dependency.
I felt that the Domus Retreat was the most successful rehabilitation from opiate or opioid dependency that I have ever received. The staff, location, and physicians went above and beyond what I had initially expected.
– Detox Patient, 2011
Changed my life forever
The most amazing people I've ever had the privilege to spend time with, changed my life forever in the most positive way possible.
– Detox Patient, 2011
This is the safest and greatest place to choose.
Thank you so much for this opportunity. I feel better I came here. It was so far the right and best decision I have made for myself and family. I would recommend it to anyone. The care and support was unbelievable. I couldn't have done it by myself. Now I feel clear and confident. You guys rock! Thanks again.
– Detox Patient, 2014
Imagine concentrating the worst parts of your drug withdrawal into a day
Imagine concentrating the worst parts of your drug withdrawal into a day. Now imagine that there's a procedure that allows you to skip the experience. Then imagine being cared for as you prepare to be reintegrated into your life in the condition you've been waiting for.
– Detox Patient, 2011
Thank you so much for this opportunity.
"A 60 year-old, white-collar professional who originally used opiates for an injury. The staff at every stage was beyond excellent. Services worth every penny spent! On Day 2, I was in the gym."
– Detox Patient, 2014
Truly amazing the work they do here
This program is above and beyond any treatment program for addiction I have encountered before. Truly amazing the work they do here.
– Detox Patient, 2011
I FINALLY got my life back...
Researched the treatment/detoxification process on Wednesday, booked my appointment on Friday, and I can 100% without a doubt confidently say this was the best decision I have EVER made! I FINALLY got my life back...
Thanks again to the entire Domus/Waismann staff. You are TRULY lifesavers.
– Detox Patient, 2011
I was not a believer, but now I am.
I was very concerned that it would not help me, I was not a believer, but now I am.
– Detox Patient, 2012
Opioid dependence is a complex medical condition that demands more than a standard, one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a deeply personalized, medically guided strategy that prioritizes safety, efficacy, and patient dignity. That’s why understanding how medical opioid detoxification should be approached is critical for both individuals and healthcare professionals.
At Waismann Method, we’ve spent nearly three decades educating the public and medical community about effective and responsible opioid detox protocols. Our goal is to raise awareness about the essential elements of safe detoxification, what works, what doesn’t, and why proper medical care is non-negotiable.
Also referred to as Sedation-Assisted Detox or Accelerated Opioid Detox,
Also referred to as Sedation-Assisted Detox or Accelerated Opioid Detox, rapid detox, is a medical procedure that allows patients to go through the acute phase of withdrawal while under deep sedation in a controlled hospital setting. This process should never be rushed or treated casually, it requires:
Admission to an accredited hospital at least one full day prior to detox
Pre-medication and stabilization to prepare the body
The detox itself under IV sedation, performed by a board-certified anesthesiologist and supported by an experienced medical team
Inpatient monitoring for several days after detox to ensure safety, regulate neurochemical activity, and prevent complications
The physiological benefits can be significant: faster opioid receptor cleansing, reduced withdrawal distress, and earlier activation of endorphin systems. However, these benefits are only possible when the procedure is done responsibly. One-day detox programs or non-accredited facilities offering shortcuts often ignore critical safety protocols, posing significant medical risks to patients.
Waismann Method® continues to serve as a global authority on how rapid detox should be conducted with transparency, ethical standards, and scientific grounding.
For individuals who are not candidates for sedation or prefer a less invasive approach, medically assisted opioid detox
is an essential alternative. This method involves carefully monitored inpatient care, where medications are used to manage symptoms and stabilize the nervous system during withdrawal.
Key elements of medically assisted detox include:
Admission to a JCAHO-accredited hospital
A private room and around-the-clock medical supervision
Use of medications to ease central nervous system stress and minimize discomfort
Close monitoring of vital signs and mental health throughout the process
This type of detox is particularly appropriate for those with underlying medical conditions or psychiatric concerns. It emphasizes patient safety while supporting the body’s natural recovery process.
At Waismann Method®, we’ve long advocated for medically guided, individualized detox as the safest and most effective way to help patients start an opioid-free life. Through education and awareness, we continue to inform patients, families, and healthcare professionals about what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to avoid unsafe detox practices.
Located exclusively in Southern California,
the Waismann Method® remains one of the most recognized names in opioid detoxification worldwide. For nearly three decades, our approach to sedation-assisted opioid detox has combined exceptional medical oversight with a commitment to patient safety, science, and individualized care.
Our hospital-based program is conducted in a full-service, Joint Commission-accredited facility, with protocols directed by one of the most experienced physicians in the field—quadruple board-certified in addiction medicine, anesthesiology, and pain management. These qualifications are not just impressive—they’re essential for ensuring that rapid detox is performed responsibly and effectively.
Unlike other programs that offer risky, overnight detox procedures with minimal monitoring, Waismann Method® emphasizes proper inpatient care: at least one full day of stabilization before detox and several days of post-detox monitoring. This comprehensive model reduces medical risks and improves long-term outcomes.
With a proven track record of excellence, the Waismann Method continues to lead the field in accelerated opioid detox, setting the benchmark for safe, ethical, and medically sound treatment protocols.
Explore our educational resources to learn why Waismann Method® remains the global authority in rapid opiate detox and advanced opioid withdrawal management.
Opioid dependence is a serious medical condition, but with the right information, guidance, and support, freedom is possible. For nearly 30 years, Waismann Method® has set the gold standard in safe, medically guided opioid detoxification. Today, we continue our mission through education, awareness, and advocacy.
Learn what real opioid detox should look like, from proper inpatient care and sedation-assisted protocols to medically assisted withdrawal management. Our resources are designed to empower individuals, families, and professionals with accurate, science-based information.
Don’t let fear or misinformation hold you back. Explore expert insights, understand your options, and take the first informed step toward a healthier future.
In the evolving landscape of opioid use disorder (OUD), the Waismann Method remains one of the most trusted names in the world not for offering direct treatment today, but for setting the gold standard in how medical opioid detoxification should be approached. With nearly three decades of experience, our focus is now dedicated to education, awareness, and professional guidance rooted in clinical expertise and physiological science.
Understanding opioid detox requires far more than a checklist of withdrawal symptoms. It involves detailed knowledge of:
Neuroregulationduring opioid withdrawal
Hormonal imbalancespost-cessation
Cardiovascular risks during acute detox
Respiratory considerations in sedation-assisted protocols
The critical timing and integration of medications like Naltrexone or Vivitrol
We use our platform to teach medical professionals and the public why proper care must include:
Admission to a JCAHO-accredited hospital, not outpatient clinics or surgical centers
One full inpatient day prior to detox for stabilization and pre-medication
Several days post-detox for monitoring neurochemical readjustments, blood pressure, hydration, and potential complications
Private room care to support personalized monitoring and reduce cross-contamination risk
This multi-day model is not a luxury—it’s a medical necessity.
The concept of personalized medicine is no longer aspirational—it’s essential. Every individual brings a unique set of health factors, genetic predispositions, emotional challenges, and pharmacological interactions. Our educational model emphasizes how detox protocols should be customized to meet these needs.
Whether discussing sedation-assisted detox, medication-supported withdrawal, or non-sedation options, the Waismann Method® has long demonstrated that physiological accuracy, not generalization, saves lives and supports long-term outcomes.
Our medical director, Dr. Michael H. Lowenstein, is the most experienced physician in rapid opioid detox under sedation in the United States. With board certifications in addiction medicine, anesthesiology, pain management, and anti-aging medicine, Dr. Lowenstein helped define the safest medical protocols now taught to clinicians worldwide. His work shaped the responsible use of IV sedation, non-intubated detox, and post-detox medical care as best practices.
Medication-assisted craving control, particularly with Vivitrol injections or oral Naltrexone, has a place in many post-detox treatment plans. But timing is critical. We offer insights into:
When these medications can safely be introduced post-detox
How they interact with opioid receptors and CNS rebound activity
The importance of monitoring liver function and mood-related side effects
This type of post-detox guidance is crucial to preventing relapse and supporting emotional stabilization.
The Waismann Method was founded by Clare Waismann, M-RAS/SUDCC II, with the mission to transform how opioid dependence is viewed and treated—not as a moral failing, but as a medical condition requiring evidence-based care. Her dedication continues today through public advocacy, clinician education, and responsible content designed to protect lives.
Before choosing a detox provider, it is critical to understand what real medical opioid detox should involve. Waismann Method® offers trusted insights and training on:
Rapid detox protocols under sedation
Medically assisted detox without anesthesia
Craving control strategies
The role of aftercare and emotional stabilization
Red flags to avoid in unsafe or unethical programs
This knowledge saves lives. Whether you’re a professional, policymaker, or concerned loved one, our resources are designed to inform and empower.
About WAISMANN METHOD®
Waismann Method® is named after its founder, Clare Waismann, M-RAS/SUDCC II, a registered addiction specialist and substance use disorder counselor. Since 1998, the Waismann name has been recognized worldwide for advancing responsible, medically based approaches to opioid detoxification. The original vision was to eliminate judgment from the treatment of opioid dependence and replace outdated practices with protocols rooted in science, safety, and compassion.
Although Waismann Method® no longer offers direct treatment services, it continues to lead the field through education, training, and awareness. The program’s legacy is built on setting standards—not only for rapid detox under sedation but for the full spectrum of individualized opioid detoxification protocols.
Our mission now focuses on empowering patients, families, and healthcare professionals with accurate, up-to-date information on safe detox practices, the physiology of opioid use disorder, and the risks of under-regulated or non-medical detox programs.
World-renowned Addiction Treatment Specialists
For decades, Michael H. Lowenstein, M.D. served as the medical director of the Waismann Method and was considered the foremost expert in opioid detoxification under sedation in the United States. Dr. Lowenstein is a quadruple board-certified physician in addiction medicine, anesthesiology, pain management, and anti-aging medicine, with more than 30 years of clinical experience.
His contributions were instrumental in establishing rapid detox protocols that emphasized:
Pre-detox medical stabilization
Sedation-assisted opioid detox without intubation
Inpatient post-detox monitoring for physiological balance
Ethical application of medications such as Vivitrol and Naltrexone
Dr. Lowenstein’s work has shaped how the medical community views opioid withdrawal—not as a moral failing but as a medical condition requiring careful and science-based intervention.
David Livingston, M.A., M.F.T., licensed psychotherapist and longtime Waismann Method collaborator, has been a cornerstone of the program’s emotional and mental health guidance. For nearly two decades, he worked with patients navigating the psychological impact of opioid dependence and post-detox emotional adjustment.
A recognized thought leader and podcaster, David uses his expertise to help individuals understand the emotional complexity of addiction, advocate for trauma-informed care, and build meaningful strategies for sustained well-being.
Clare Waismann, M-RAS/SUDCC II, has dedicated her career to advocating for a medical model of care that removes stigma and provides patients with dignity and understanding. As the founder of both Waismann Method® and Domus Retreat, Clare pioneered the integration of inpatient medical detox with emotional aftercare, transforming countless lives and influencing treatment standards internationally.
Today, she continues her work as a writer, educator, and public advocate, using media platforms to raise awareness about opioid use disorder, mental health, and the urgent need for safer, evidence-based care options.
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