The duration of detox varies based on the specific substance involved and the individual’s unique physiology. Unsupervised detox can be danger and potentially life-threatening, but these risks can be managed through supervised medical detoxification. Read on to learn more about how long it takes to detox from drugs.
Typical Drug Detox Timeline
The detoxification process from drugs or alcohol is designed to eliminate these substances from the body while addressing any withdrawal symptoms that arise. Withdrawal can be categorized into two primary types:
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- Acute withdrawal: Immediate medical symptoms requiring urgent care.
- Post-acute withdrawal: Psychological symptoms that call for ongoing treatment for safe management.
How long does it take to detox from drugs, then? Factors influencing the duration of the detox process can vary widely, potentially spanning from a few days to months or even years. The timeline for detox is affected by numerous factors, including:
- Substance(s) used
- Scope and intensity of use
- Method of consumption
- Amount of substance used
- Timing of last use
- Existing mental health issues
- Medical history
- Interaction with other medications
- Age and gender
Here are general timelines for detoxing from the most common addictive substances and the withdrawal symptoms associated with each:
Opioid detox
- Onset: Withdrawal symptoms for short-acting opioids like heroin can start within 6 to 12 hours of the last use, peaking within the first week of detox. Those detoxing from longer-acting opioids like methadone, might not experience withdrawal symptoms until 2 to 4 days after the last use.
- Duration: Most severe symptoms usually diminish by the end of the second week. That said, cravings and some post-acute withdrawal symptoms may persist for months, especially in those with a long history of heavy opioid use.
Benzodiazepine detox
- Onset: Withdrawal symptoms typically start within 24 hours of the last use, peaking around the third day of detox.
- Duration: While most severe symptoms taper off after two weeks, some people may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms for months or years.
Stimulant detox
- Onset: Withdrawal symptoms from stimulants like meth or cocaine can start within the first 24 hours of the last use, with a significant drop in mood occurring within 72 hours.
- Duration: While initial symptoms may taper off within the first two weeks of detox, drug cravings can linger for longer.
How Long Does It Take to Detox from Hard Drugs?
Detoxing from hard drugs like heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and certain prescription opioids can vary widely in duration. The acute phase of withdrawal can last from a few days up to two weeks. However, PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome), involving cravings and psychological effects, can persist for several months. The exact timeline depends on the specific drug, the length of use, and individual variables.
How Long Does It Take to Detox from Soft Drugs?
How long takes it take to detox from drugs like marijuana and some prescription medications with a lower risk of dependence, then? Soft drugs generally have a shorter detox period. The acute withdrawal phase might last from a few days to about a week. Like with hard drugs, though, some people may experience cravings or mood changes for weeks to months afterward. The severity and duration of withdrawal from soft drugs also depend on usage patterns and individual health factors.
FAQs
How long does it take someone to detox from drugs?
The time it takes someone to detox from drugs can vary widely depending on the type of drug, the duration of use, individual metabolism and overall health. The average length of detox is 5 to 7 days.
How long does it take to detox from a drug like fentanyl?
Detoxing from a drug like fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, can be tough. The acute phase of withdrawal usually begins within 12 to 36 hours of the last use. Fentanyl detox can last for a week or more, with some symptoms persisting for longer.
How long is a drug detox program?
The duration of a drug detox program can vary, ranging from 5 to 14 days or more. The duration may vary based on the substance of abuse, the severity of the addiction, and individual health factors. Some programs may extend beyond this range to provide more comprehensive support.
Get 24/7 Care for Drug Withdrawal at California Detox
Unsupervised detox can be dangerous, but withdrawal is streamlined significantly with supervised medical detoxification. Choose our drug detox program at California Detox and you can move beyond physical dependence on alcohol with guidance and supervision.
During ongoing inpatient treatment at our Laguna Beach treatment center, you can address the powerful psychological component of drug addiction. Due to the unique nature of all substance use disorders, you will access a personalized blend of the following treatments:
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
- Motivational therapies
- Talk therapies
- Group therapy
- Individual counseling
- Family therapy
- Holistic treatments
- Aftercare planning
Call 949.694.8305 for supervised drug detox and addiction treatment in California.
