Cold Turkey

Cold Turkey

Cold Turkey is a term commonly used to describe the abrupt cessation of a substance dependence and the resulting withdrawal symptoms. The term is often associated with drug addiction, particularly with substances such as nicotine, alcohol, and opioids. The phrase "cold turkey" is believed to have originated from the idea that a person who suddenly stops using a substance may experience cold, clammy skin similar to that of a cold turkey.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the substance from which a person is detoxing. Common symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Depression (mood)
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Insomnia
• Muscle pain
• Cravings

Treatment

Treatment for withdrawal symptoms often involves medical supervision and may include:

• Medication-assisted treatment
• Behavioral therapy
• Support groups
• Inpatient rehabilitation

Risks

Abruptly stopping the use of certain substances can be dangerous and may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. It is often recommended to seek medical advice before attempting to quit "cold turkey," especially for substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines, which can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Alternatives to Cold Turkey

There are several alternatives to quitting "cold turkey," including:

• Gradual tapering
• Nicotine replacement therapy
• Methadone or buprenorphine for opioid addiction
• Counseling and psychotherapy

See Also

• Substance dependence
• Detoxification
• Relapse prevention
• Addiction medicine