How Long Do Withdrawal Symptoms Last When Quitting Alcohol or Drugs?

Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms from Alcohol and Drugs

Withdrawal refers to the body's reaction to stopping the use of a substance after prolonged and heavy use. Withdrawal symptoms arise as the body tries to adapt to functioning without the substance it has become dependent on. The duration and severity of withdrawal depends on several factors like the substance used, length of use, dosage amount, genetics, and individual physiology.

Acute Withdrawal Phase

The acute withdrawal phase begins just hours after the last dose of alcohol or other drugs. This phase usually peaks within 1-3 days but can last up to a week or more depending on the substance.

Common withdrawal symptoms during the acute phase may include:

• Anxiety
• Irritability and mood swings
• Depression
• Fatigue and insomnia
• Impaired concentration
• Headaches and muscle aches
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
• Sweating, tremors, and shakes
• Cravings for the substance

The acute phase is often the most uncomfortable and dangerous period of withdrawal. Medically supervised detox may be required for safe management of acute withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and other substances.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

After getting through the worst of the acute withdrawal phase, some people may experience a drawn-out period of withdrawal symptoms known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). PAWS can begin within days or weeks after substance cessation.

PAWS may involve psychological and emotional symptoms like:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Sadness and depression
• Anxiety
• Concentration problems
• Memory issues
• Cravings

Physical PAWS symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Disturbed sleep patterns like insomnia or hypersomnia
• Changes in appetite and digestion
• Aches, pains, and headaches

PAWS may come and go in waves. Symptoms are generally milder than in acute withdrawal but can still be disruptive to daily life. The duration of PAWS varies but can persist for weeks, months, or even years depending on the individual and substance used.

Duration of Withdrawal by Substance

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

Acute alcohol withdrawal typically peaks within 48-72 hours after the last drink. Symptoms during this time may include anxiety, agitation, tremors, sweating, nausea, vomiting, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and possibly seizures.

PAWS after alcohol cessation can last for weeks to months. Mood instability, sleep disruptions, fatigue, and cravings are common during this time. The risk of relapse is high during PAWS as alcohol cravings persist.

Opioid Withdrawal Timeline

Acute opioid withdrawal starts within 8-12 hours of last use with symptoms like muscle aches, anxiety, sweating, runny nose, yawning, and diarrhea. Symptoms peak around days 2-3 and gradually improve within 5-10 days.

The PAWS phase for opioids involves prolonged effects like fatigue, sleep disruption, dysphoria, and cravings that may wax and wane for months after acute withdrawal. PAWS can be especially challenging after potent opioids like heroin or fentanyl.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Timeline

Acute withdrawal from benzodiazepines like Xanax or Valium starts within days to weeks of stopping, with greater risks the longer the drugs were taken. Potential symptoms include anxiety, panic attacks, hand tremors, sweating, insomnia, and seizures in severe cases.

Due to the seizure risks, benzodiazepine withdrawal is ideally managed through a slow taper over months. PAWS may last 6 months or more, with psychological symptoms and cravings slowly improving over time.

Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline

Cocaine withdrawal causes depression, fatigue, slowed thinking, increased appetite and sleep, and cravings peaking around days 2-4 after last use. Acute symptoms typically resolve within a week or two.

Cocaine PAWS may involve mood instability, lack of motivation, and cravings for up to several months after stopping use. The risks of psychological dependence and relapse remain high during this time.

Methamphetamine Withdrawal Timeline

Meth withdrawal produces effects like depression, anxiety and agitation, fatigue, increased appetite, and strong drug cravings within 24 hours peaking around days 2-4. Acute symptoms usually resolve within 7-10 days.

The PAWS phase of meth withdrawal can last for weeks or even months. Depression, trouble concentrating, fatigue, and meth cravings tend to come and go during this time, posing high relapse risks.

Marijuana Withdrawal Timeline

Marijuana withdrawal causes irritability, anxiety, sleep disruptions, decreased appetite, restlessness and physical discomfort starting as soon as 1-3 days after stopping and peaking at 2-6 days. Acute symptoms usually clear within 1-3 weeks.

Marijuana PAWS often involves resurfacing psychological symptoms like anxiety, irritability, insomnia and cravings for several weeks after the acute phase passes. Heavy, long-term users may experience effects for months.

Managing Withdrawal Discomfort and Cravings

While there is no way to completely avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping substance use after dependence has developed, there are ways to help manage some of the discomfort and risks:

• Seek medical help for supervised detox if stopping alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines.
• Follow prescribed post-detox treatment plans and medications.
• Stay well hydrated and maintain nutrition.
• Take hot baths or use heating pads for muscle aches.
• Consider OTC medications for headaches, nausea, diarrhea under medical guidance.
• Use relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
• Engage in moderate physical activity if possible.
• Stick to a sleep schedule and wind down before bed.
• Join a support group to help cope with cravings and PAWS.
• Consider counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Avoid people, places, and situations that could trigger drug use.

While withdrawal symptoms will eventually pass, it takes time for the brain and body to heal and recover equilibrium. Having a strong support system and using positive coping strategies can help you get through this challenging transitional period safely.

Seeking Medical Help for Withdrawal

Attempting to withdrawal from any substance "cold turkey" carries health risks and high chances of relapse. Medical supervision is strongly advised when stopping use of:

• Alcohol - Due to risks like seizures, electrolyte imbalances, and delirium tremens.
• Opioids - To manage severe flu-like symptoms and cravings.
• Benzodiazepines - To safely taper dosage to prevent seizures and other medical complications.
• Multiple substances - Polysubstance withdrawal presents added health risks.

Even when stopping use of less physically addictive substances like marijuana, cocaine, or amphetamines, seeking professional help improves your chances over attempting it alone.

Your healthcare providers can help by:

• Evaluating your level of dependence.
• Providing monitored detox and medical stabilization.
• Managing withdrawal symptoms.
• Prescribing medications to ease cravings and discomfort.
• Connecting you with counseling and peer support.
• Following up during PAWS.

Entering a comprehensive inpatient treatment program provides round-the-clock medical and psychological care in a controlled environment during the most volatile early withdrawal period. Outpatient programs offer more flexibility but less support.

Seeking Emergency Help

You should seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following severe withdrawal symptoms:

• High fever
• Racing heart rate or chest pain
• Trouble breathing
• Inability to keep fluids down
• Signs of stroke or heart attack
• Suicidal or homicidal thoughts
• Seizures
• Delirium or hallucinations

Going through withdrawal without medical assistance can be life-threatening in some cases. Getting emergency help can save your life during this vulnerable time.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Withdrawal

Attempting to withdraw from alcohol, opiates, or other addictive substances is extremely difficult both physically and mentally. Having realistic expectations can help you prepare for this challenging process.

• Withdrawal takes time. Allow several weeks at minimum for even uncomplicated cases.
• Symptoms may come in waves. Some days will be better than others.
• PAWS can take months. Psychological effects linger after physical symptoms resolve.
• Cravings may persist. Be prepared to cope with ongoing desires to use.
• Relapse is common. Many need multiple attempts before getting sober.
• Support is essential. Don't try to withdraw alone.
• Focus on progress, not perfection. Small gains build over time.

Withdrawing from an addictive substance is challenging both physically and mentally, but entirely possible with proper medical care, social support, lifestyle changes, and self-care. Being informed and prepared helps set reasonable expectations for the duration and course of withdrawal symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.