For individuals who have used opioids for an extended period, stopping use can trigger the difficult but necessary process of detoxification. Understanding the timeline of withdrawal helps prepare the mind and body for what to expect during the recovery process.
This article explains how long symptoms typically last, what influences their duration, and how professional treatment can ease discomfort while supporting long-term healing.
Understanding What Happens During Withdrawal
When someone stops using opioids, the body must readjust to functioning without the drug’s influence. It attaches to receptors in the brain that regulate pain, mood, and the reward system. As time passes by, the brain becomes dependent on these substances to maintain normal function. Once use stops, the brain struggles to produce natural neurotransmitters, resulting in physical and psychological effects known as withdrawal.
These reactions vary depending on the type of opioid used, frequency of use, dosage, and the individual’s overall health. Short-acting types like heroin or oxycodone typically cause withdrawal symptoms sooner than long-acting medications such as methadone. The process can be uncomfortable, but it is not usually life-threatening when supported through medication-assisted treatment (MAT) that helps ease discomfort and promotes safety.
The First 24 Hours: Early Withdrawal Symptoms
The earliest phase can begin within six to twelve hours after the last dose for short-acting opioids and up to thirty hours for long-acting ones. During this period, individuals often experience restlessness, muscle aches, anxiety, sweating, and insomnia. Flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, and frequent yawning are common as the body reacts to the absence of the drug.
Cravings also tend to intensify during this stage, which can make it difficult to resist returning to use without support. Hydration, light meals, and professional monitoring are crucial during this phase to prevent complications and ensure safety.
Days Two to Four: The Peak Phase
The second through fourth days mark the height of physical discomfort as effects often peak during this window while the body continues to eliminate residual substances. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps may occur alongside chills, goosebumps, and muscle pain. Emotionally, irritability and anxiety can become stronger, and sleep remains disrupted.
This stage is the most physically intense and carries the highest risk of relapse. Medical support makes a significant difference in reducing these symptoms through the administration of medications that manage pain, nausea, or insomnia. Emotional reassurance and counseling also help individuals stay focused on their recovery goals.
Days Five to Seven: Gradual Improvement
After the peak phase, symptoms begin to subside in intensity as energy levels start to return, and the body gradually regains stability. While physical discomfort decreases, emotional challenges such as depression, fatigue, or lack of motivation may persist. The brain’s chemistry is still adjusting toward normal functioning, which can leave individuals feeling mentally foggy or emotionally drained.
Nutrition, hydration, and rest are essential during this stage. Support groups and therapeutic settings help individuals cope with emotional instability and maintain motivation as their bodies continue to heal.
Week Two and Beyond: Lingering Effects
For some people, withdrawal can linger for several weeks or even months after detoxification. These lingering effects, called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), may include mood swings, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. The severity and duration depend on factors such as the length of use and whether multiple substances were involved.
Although these effects are less intense than the early stages, they can still interfere with daily functioning and may still lead to relapse.
Managing Symptoms Safely and Effectively
Professional treatment programs provide a safer and more comfortable way to navigate withdrawal. Medical detox centers apply established protocols to manage pain, stabilize vital signs, and respond to complications promptly. Behavioral therapy and counseling guide individuals through emotional challenges, helping them build coping skills that reduce the likelihood of relapse.
Medication-assisted treatment also plays a vital role in this process as FDA-approved medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone work by balancing brain chemistry, reducing cravings, and easing physical discomfort. MAT’s benefits extend beyond minimizing withdrawal symptoms, as it also significantly reduces overdose risk and increases retention in treatment, supporting sustained long-term recovery.
Final Thoughts from Raise the Bottom
Withdrawal is an important step toward recovery that allows the body and mind to reset. While the withdrawal process can be challenging, understanding the timeline helps individuals prepare for each stage and receive appropriate medical care. Professional treatment not only helps manage discomfort but also increases the likelihood of long-term recovery success.
At Raise the Bottom, we specialize in outpatient and medication-assisted treatment programs in Idaho focused on helping individuals overcome opioid dependence. Our team combines medical expertise with counseling and personalized support to guide each person toward lasting recovery. With the right treatment and compassionate care, lasting change is possible.
