Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid used in medicine for severe pain, and it’s increasingly found in the illicit drug supply. 1 This guide explains what fentanyl is, why its potency raises the risk of overdose, how to spot signs of fentanyl addiction, and the treatment options that can help. Families and clinicians often … Read more
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used in medicine for severe pain and, unfortunately, increasingly found in the illicit drug supply. 1 Knowing how long it stays in the body helps families, clinicians, and forensic teams interpret test results and manage safety. This article outlines typical detection windows for different specimen types, summarizes fentanyl metabolism … Read more
Medically supervised drug detox is a clinical process that manages withdrawal so the brain and body can stabilize and reduce short-term risks. 1 This guide explains how evidence-based detox works, why monitoring and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options matter, and what patients and families should expect during evaluation, stabilization, and the transition into ongoing treatment. You’ll … Read more
Program length for drug rehabilitation varies from person to person, but most structured programs fall between 30 and 90 days, depending on clinical need and level of care. 1 This article explains those common timeframes, why they exist, and how the length of stay relates to outcomes like engagement, skill development, and relapse prevention. You’ll … Read more
Choosing the right luxury drug detox center can greatly impact your recovery journey. This article will help you understand what to look for in a luxury drug detox center, covering essential aspects like personalized treatment plans, high-quality amenities, and comprehensive medical support. Key Takeaways Luxury drug detox centers prioritize privacy, high-quality amenities, and personalized treatment … Read more
Dr. Salah Alrakawi brings over 30 years of expertise in clinical medicine, academia, and administration. He is dual board-certified in Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine, reflecting his deep commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Currently serving as the Medical Director at Charles River Recovery, Dr. Alrakawi also holds roles as an Attending Physician in the Department of General Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Atrius Health, and the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC). His multifaceted work underscores his dedication to advancing both the treatment of addiction and general internal medicine.
Dr. Alrakawi earned his medical degree from Damascus University and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Woodhull Medical Center. He is also a valued member of the teaching faculty at Harvard Medical School, where he helps shape the next generation of physicians.
Throughout his career, Dr. Alrakawi has been recognized with numerous awards and honors from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Lemuel Shattuck Hospital, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, highlighting his contributions to public health, education, and patient care.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Alrakawi is an avid traveler who enjoys hiking, playing soccer, and immersing himself in diverse cultures around the world.
Steven Barry holds a B.A. in Economics from Bates College with extensive professional experience in both financial and municipal management. In his role as Director of Outreach, Steve leads the Charles River team in fostering relationships across the recovery community, local cities and towns, labor partners, and serving as a general resource for anyone seeking help.
Steve’s Charles River Why – “Anything I have ever done in my professional career has been rooted in helping people. There is no more direct correlate to that end than assisting people find their path to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction”.
