One of the most common concerns people have when thinking about stopping drugs is the fear of withdrawal. Many individuals ask the same important question:
How long does drug withdrawal last?
Withdrawal can feel intimidating because the body and brain have adapted to the presence of substances. When those substances are suddenly removed, the body must readjust, which can produce uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms.
The length and intensity of drug withdrawal vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of substance used, how long it has been used, the amount taken, and the person’s overall health.
While withdrawal can be difficult, it is also an important step toward recovery. With the right medical supervision and support, individuals can safely move through detox and begin the process of healing.
At Passages Malibu, we help clients detox safely while also addressing the deeper underlying causes of substance use through a holistic, non-12-step approach.
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, you can speak confidentially with an admissions specialist by calling (888) 397-0112 or visiting www.passagesmalibu.com.
Understanding Drug Withdrawal
Drug withdrawal occurs when someone who has become physically dependent on a substance stops or significantly reduces their use.
Over time, drugs change the way the brain functions. Many substances alter the brain’s reward system, stress response, and emotional regulation. As the body adapts to the presence of the drug, it begins to rely on it to maintain balance.
When the drug is removed, the body must readjust to functioning without it. This adjustment period is what causes withdrawal symptoms.
Some withdrawal symptoms are mild and uncomfortable. Others can be severe and require medical supervision.
How Long Withdrawal Lasts for Different Drugs
The duration of withdrawal depends heavily on the type of substance involved.
Below are general timelines for common substances.
Opioids (Heroin, Oxycodone, Fentanyl)
Withdrawal symptoms for opioids typically begin within 8–24 hours after the last use.
Common symptoms include:
• Muscle aches
• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Strong cravings
Most physical symptoms peak within 2–3 days and gradually improve within 7–10 days.
However, emotional symptoms such as anxiety and cravings may last longer.
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan)
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be more prolonged and medically complex.
Symptoms may begin 1–4 days after the last dose and can last several weeks.
Common symptoms include:
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Tremors
• Sleep disturbances
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Irritability
Because benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause seizures in severe cases, medical supervision is strongly recommended.
Stimulants (Cocaine, Methamphetamine)
Stimulant withdrawal often involves psychological symptoms rather than severe physical effects.
Symptoms may include:
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Increased appetite
• Anxiety
• Intense cravings
These symptoms usually begin within 24 hours of stopping use and may last 1–2 weeks, although mood-related symptoms can continue longer.
Marijuana
Marijuana withdrawal symptoms are typically milder but can still be uncomfortable.
Symptoms may include:
• Irritability
• Sleep problems
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Reduced appetite
Symptoms usually begin within 24–72 hours and improve within one to two weeks.
Factors That Affect Withdrawal Duration
Several factors influence how long withdrawal symptoms last.
Type of Drug
Different substances affect the body in different ways, leading to varying withdrawal timelines.
Length of Use
People who have used substances for many years may experience longer withdrawal periods.
Frequency and Quantity
Heavy or frequent drug use can lead to stronger physical dependence.
Physical and Mental Health
Underlying health conditions, stress levels, and mental health factors can influence withdrawal severity.
Polysubstance Use
Using multiple substances simultaneously can complicate withdrawal and extend recovery time.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS)
Even after the initial detox phase ends, some individuals experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms, often referred to as PAWS.
These symptoms may include:
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty concentrating
• Low motivation
PAWS symptoms can last weeks or months but tend to improve with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
This is one reason detox alone is rarely enough for lasting recovery.
Why Detox Alone Is Not Enough
While detox helps remove substances from the body, it does not address the deeper reasons why addiction developed in the first place.
Many people relapse after detox because the underlying emotional or psychological causes of addiction remain unresolved.
At Passages Malibu, we believe addiction is often driven by deeper issues that must be addressed in order to achieve lasting recovery.
The Passages Malibu Philosophy
Unlike traditional treatment programs that treat addiction as a lifelong disease, Passages Malibu takes a different approach.
We believe substance use is often a symptom of deeper underlying conditions.
These conditions typically fall into four categories:
• A chemical imbalance
• Unresolved experiences from the past
• Current life challenges that feel overwhelming
• Limiting beliefs that are not true
When these underlying issues are addressed through personalized therapy, individuals often find they no longer need substances to cope.
What Makes Passages Malibu Different
Passages Malibu has been rated “The Number 1 Rehab in the World” by Health Care Global, and our treatment program offers several unique advantages.
A Non-12-Step Approach
Passages Malibu does not follow a traditional 12-Step model.
Clients are not required to identify themselves as addicts or alcoholics. Instead, we focus on healing the root causes of substance use.
Extensive One-on-One Therapy
Many treatment centers rely heavily on group meetings.
At Passages Malibu, clients receive 60–70 hours of one-on-one therapy each month, allowing treatment to be tailored to their individual needs.
Clients may work with a team that includes:
• Medical Doctor
• Psychiatrist
• Psychologist
• Marriage and Family Therapist
• Chemical Dependency Counselor
• Hypnotherapist
• Acupuncturist
• Spiritual Counselor
• Personal Trainer
• Aftercare Planner
A Luxury Healing Environment
Passages Malibu provides a peaceful environment overlooking the Pacific Ocean where clients can focus fully on recovery.
Amenities include:
• Private suites with high-speed internet
• Gourmet chef-prepared meals
• Ocean-view pool and hot tub
• Tennis court and fitness center
• Personal training sessions
• Beautiful landscaped grounds designed for relaxation
Clients are also allowed to keep their cell phones and laptops, allowing them to remain connected with loved ones and responsibilities.
A Family-Run Treatment Center Since 2001
Passages Malibu was founded by Chris and Pax Prentiss after Pax struggled with addiction for nearly ten years.
Traditional treatment programs failed to address the underlying causes of his substance use, which led to repeated relapses. Chris developed a holistic approach focused on resolving those deeper issues.
That approach helped Pax achieve lasting recovery and inspired the creation of Passages Malibu.
Today, Pax continues to oversee the program and personally speak with individuals considering treatment.
Insurance Coverage May Help Make Treatment Affordable
Passages Malibu works with many major insurance providers, including:
Aetna
Anthem
Beacon
Blue Cross Blue Shield
ComPsych
HealthNet
Humana
Magellan
MHN
MultiPlan
Three Rivers
TriCare
Value Options
Our admissions specialists can help verify insurance benefits and explain available options.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Drug withdrawal can feel intimidating, but you do not have to face it alone. With professional support, detox can be safer, more comfortable, and the beginning of a healthier life.
If you or someone you love is struggling with drug dependence, help is available.
Call (888) 397-0112 or visit www.passagesmalibu.com to speak confidentially with an admissions specialist and learn how the Passages Malibu program can help you begin your recovery journey.
You deserve compassionate care.
You deserve healing.
You deserve a future free from addiction.
Addiction Ends Here®
