Withdrawal Timelines: How Long Does It Take to Detox from Different Substances?

There is no one answer to the question of how long does it take to detox from different substances. The length of time required for detox will vary depending on a person’s individual physiology and history of substance abuse. There are, however, some general timelines that can give you an idea of what to expect during detox. In this blog post, we will take a look at the withdrawal timelines for several common drugs, the symptoms you may experience during each, and outline the importance of medically supervised detox services.

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

Alcohol withdrawal typically begins within eight hours of the last drink and can peak within 24-48 hours. Most people will begin to feel better after a few days. However, some may experience delirium tremens (DTs), a more severe form of withdrawal that can include hallucinations and seizures. DTs usually occur three to five days after the last drink and can be life-threatening if not treated properly. At Restored Path Detox, we provide 24/7 patient monitoring so that we are able to intervene quickly to keep patients safe. We can prescribe targeted medications to alleviate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal while simultaneously preventing dangerous symptoms.

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal Include:

• Elevated blood pressure
• Racing pulse
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Tremors
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Headache
• Sweating
• Nausea/vomiting
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

Stimulant Withdrawal Timeline

Withdrawal from stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine generally starts within 24 hours of the last use. Symptoms include fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. These symptoms can last for several weeks or even months in some cases if not treated medically.

Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal Include:

• Depressed mood
• Ongoing tiredness or lethargy
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Paranoia
• Increased appetite
• Problems with concentration
• Slowed thoughts and movements
• Intense drug cravings

Because the psychological symptoms of cocaine withdrawal are typically more severe and disruptive, we offer psychiatric services during cocaine detox, and antipsychotic medications whenever necessary. In addition, behavioral therapy is an essential part of stimulant detox, so we offer individual and group therapy sessions facilitated by a licensed therapist. Meth detox can have some severe psychological withdrawal symptoms, Restored Path Detox provides a safe crystal meth withdrawal treatment for adults.

Opiate Withdrawal Timeline

Opiates like heroin or prescription painkillers generally produce withdrawal symptoms within 12 hours of the last dose. These symptoms can sometimes last several days to a week or more. To help keep patients comfortable and safe during opioid detox, we provide 24-hour medical supervision and professional care. If needed, we will administer and carefully monitor FDA-approved medications to reduce the severity of opiate withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms of Opioids Withdrawal Include:

• Nervousness or anxiety
• Trouble sleeping
• Frequent yawning
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Flu-like symptoms
• Muscle cramps/body aches
• Runny nose
• Excessive sweating
• Hot and cold flashes
• Goosebumps

Why is Medical Detox Important?

There are many benefits to medically supervised drug detox. First and foremost, it will allow a person to safely and effectively detox from drugs. This is a crucial first step in recovery, as it will help to break the physical dependence on drugs. Medically supervised drug detox will also provide the opportunity to receive counseling and other forms of support. This will help a patient be able to understand addiction and begin to develop a plan for recovery.

Since no two patients have the same use history, our team of medical professionals complete a full assessment to determine the right approach to detoxification. As a result, we can immediately identify and treat symptoms and create a tailored treatment plan unique to each person’s needs and recovery goals.

As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it takes to detox from different substances. Instead, the timeline will vary depending on the individual and the substances used. For example, heroin detox can be very uncomfortable. For most people, drug use doesn’t begin with addiction. For many, it may start as a way to unwind, relieve stress, or in the form of a doctor’s prescription. But over time, drug use can lead to drug tolerance, paving the way for dependence and addiction. In some cases, like meth detox, a medically supervised drug detox in Dallas is crucial to break that dependence.

Restored Path’s Solution

Restored Path Detox is DFW’s premier location for medically supervised drug and alcohol detox. Conveniently located in Frisco, we provide a safe sanctuary for healing that is also a state-of-the-art detoxification facility for a wide range of substances. Our compassionate physicians and therapists want you to get well and are committed to removing any existing barriers to your care. Restored Path’s team of board-certified physicians and highly qualified nursing team have extensive critical care experience and are available to monitor your detox program 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol use, call us today and take your first step towards recovery: 469-827-0000.