How Long Do Withdrawals Last?

Reviewed by: Harithsa Asuri, MD, MPH, CAS | BrightView Medical Director
Published: March 25, 2025
Updated: September 2026 

Withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the substance, how long and how often it was used, a person’s health, and whether more than one substance is involved. For many substances, the strongest physical symptoms improve within one to two weeks. Cravings, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, or difficulty concentrating may continue longer.[1] 

Fear of withdrawal can make it harder to ask for help, but you do not have to manage it alone. A medical professional can help you understand what to expect, identify serious risks, and determine the safest level of care. 

Key Takeaways 

• Withdrawal does not follow one universal timeline. Symptoms may begin within hours or take several days to appear. 

• Acute symptoms often improve within one to two weeks, but some emotional, sleep, and concentration problems may last for weeks or months. 

• Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause seizures, delirium, and other life-threatening complications. Do not stop heavy or long-term use suddenly without medical guidance.[2][3] 

• Fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone, tramadol, Xanax, Adderall, methamphetamine, and other substances can produce different timelines even within the same drug class. 

• The withdrawal timeline for concentrated 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, is not yet well established. Products containing concentrated 7-OH are not the same as traditional kratom leaf products.[4] 

• Outpatient medical care may be appropriate for many people, but a clinician should determine whether outpatient or inpatient withdrawal management is safest. 

On This Page 

• What to Expect During Substance Withdrawal 

• When Does Withdrawal Start? Timelines by Substance 

• Marijuana, Kratom, and 7-Hydroxymitragynine Withdrawal 

• Nicotine, Caffeine, and Gabapentin Withdrawal 

• Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome 

• How to Safely Go Through Withdrawal 

• Frequently Asked Questions 

• Get Support for Withdrawal and Addiction Recovery Today 

What to Expect During Substance Withdrawal 

Withdrawal occurs when someone who has developed physical dependence stops or sharply reduces a substance. The brain and body must adjust to functioning without it. Symptoms vary by substance, dose, duration and frequency of use, other substances being used, and a person’s physical and mental health.[1] 

Common withdrawal symptoms may include: 

• Anxiety, irritability, or restlessness 

• Trouble sleeping, unusual dreams, or fatigue 

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite changes 

• Muscle aches, tremors, or shakiness 

• Sweating, chills, or a racing heart 

• Headaches or difficulty concentrating 

• Cravings 

• Depression or other mood changes 

Not everyone experiences every symptom. A mild beginning also does not guarantee that symptoms will stay mild, particularly with alcohol or benzodiazepines. 

When Does Withdrawal Start? Timelines by Substance 

The timelines below are general estimates, not a prediction for any one person. Short-acting substances often cause symptoms sooner than long-acting substances. The amount used, route of use, and use of multiple substances can also change the course of withdrawal. 

Opioid Withdrawal Timeline 

Opioids include fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone, tramadol, hydrocodone, morphine, and prescription or illicit opioid products. Early symptoms can include anxiety, yawning, sweating, runny nose, watery eyes, insomnia, and muscle aches. Later symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, dilated pupils, and goosebumps.[5] 

• Onset: Often 8 to 24 hours after the last use of a short-acting opioid such as heroin. Longer-acting opioids may not cause symptoms for 12 to 48 hours or longer. 

• Peak: Commonly within the first two to three days. 

• Acute withdrawal: Often improves within 7 to 10 days, although the timeline may be longer with long-acting opioids. 

• Lingering symptoms: Cravings, anxiety, low mood, and sleep disruption can continue for weeks or months. 

Fentanyl withdrawal deserves special caution. Because illicit fentanyl exposure and metabolism vary, the timing of withdrawal and the best time to begin buprenorphine may be less predictable. A clinician can assess symptoms and choose an appropriate medication-start strategy. 

Opioid withdrawal is usually not life-threatening by itself, but vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration. The loss of tolerance during withdrawal also sharply increases overdose risk if a person returns to opioid use. 

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline 

Alcohol withdrawal can progress quickly and may be life-threatening. Symptoms can include tremors, sweating, anxiety, nausea, headache, insomnia, increased heart rate, hallucinations, seizures, or delirium tremens.[2] 

• Onset: Often 6 to 24 hours after the last drink. 

• Peak: Many symptoms are strongest during the first 24 to 72 hours. 

• Acute withdrawal: Often improves within 5 to 7 days, although serious complications may occur during this period. 

• Lingering symptoms: Sleep problems, anxiety, mood changes, and cravings may last longer. 

Someone who drinks heavily or regularly should speak with a medical professional before stopping. Call 911 for a seizure, hallucinations, severe confusion, extreme agitation, or loss of consciousness. 

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Timeline 

Benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan). Withdrawal can include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tremors, sensory changes, and, in severe cases, seizures or delirium. People who may be physically dependent should not stop benzodiazepines abruptly.[3] 

• Onset: Symptoms may begin within one to two days after stopping a short-acting drug such as Xanax. With longer-acting drugs, symptoms may take several days to appear. 

• Peak and acute phase: Symptoms may intensify over several days and can persist for weeks. 

• Tapering period: A medically supervised taper may take months. For some people who have used benzodiazepines long term, completing a taper can take a year or longer.[3] 

• Lingering symptoms: Anxiety, insomnia, and sensitivity to stress may continue after the taper ends. 

There is no single safe taper schedule for everyone. A clinician should consider the specific medication, dose, length of use, other substances, and medical history. 

Stimulant Withdrawal Timeline 

Stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription medications such as amphetamine-dextroamphetamine (Adderall). Withdrawal often produces a “crash” rather than the prominent gastrointestinal symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal. Common symptoms include exhaustion, increased sleep, depressed mood, anxiety, irritability, strong cravings, and trouble concentrating.[6] 

• Onset: Within hours to a few days after the last use. 

• Early crash: Fatigue, increased sleep, appetite changes, and low mood may be strongest during the first several days. 

• Acute withdrawal: Symptoms often improve over 1 to 2 weeks. 

• Lingering symptoms: Cravings, low energy, sleep changes, anxiety, or depression may continue for one to two months or longer.[6] 

Severe depression, paranoia, or thoughts of self-harm require immediate help. Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 in an emergency. 

Marijuana, Kratom, and 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) Withdrawal 

Marijuana Withdrawal 

People who use marijuana or other THC products regularly can experience withdrawal after stopping. Symptoms may include irritability, anxiety, restlessness, decreased appetite, sleep difficulty, vivid dreams, headache, sweating, or stomach discomfort. Symptoms often begin within one to two days, are strongest during the first week, and improve within about one to two weeks. Sleep disruption or cravings may last longer for some people.[7] 

Kratom Withdrawal 

Kratom is a plant whose primary compounds interact with opioid receptors. Regular use can lead to physical dependence. Reported kratom withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, insomnia, watery eyes or runny nose, diarrhea, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, depressed mood, and cravings. Because kratom products vary widely in strength and composition, there is no dependable timeline for every product or person.[8] 

What Is 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH)? 

7-hydroxymitragynine, commonly called 7-OH, is an opioid-receptor-active compound related to kratom. It occurs naturally in kratom at very low levels, but some products contain concentrated or manufactured 7-OH at levels far beyond those found in the leaf. FDA distinguishes these concentrated products from traditional kratom leaf products and warns that 7-OH products may cause addiction, withdrawal, seizures, and other serious harm.[4] 

Kratom and 7-OH are not interchangeable: Traditional kratom is plant material containing multiple compounds, primarily mitragynine. Concentrated 7-OH products deliver a much higher amount of one potent compound and may carry a different risk profile. 

The clinical timeline for 7-OH withdrawal has not been firmly established. Reported symptoms may resemble opioid or kratom withdrawal, including anxiety, restlessness, sweating, muscle aches, gastrointestinal symptoms, insomnia, and cravings, but product concentration and patterns of use make precise estimates difficult. Avoid any source that promises an exact universal 7-OH timeline. 

Regulation is also changing. In July 2026, FDA reported that DEA had begun the temporary-scheduling process for 7-OH above a proposed threshold and for three synthetic 7-OH derivatives. That process and state rules may change, so legal status should be checked at the time of publication.[4] 

If kratom or 7-OH use is becoming difficult to control, medical support can help. Learn more about Medication Assisted Treatment and other treatment options available through BrightView. 

Nicotine, Caffeine, and Gabapentin Withdrawal 

• Nicotine: Cravings, irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, sleep changes, and increased appetite are common. Symptoms are usually strongest during the first few days or weeks and gradually become less frequent.[9] 

• Caffeine: Headache, fatigue, irritability, low alertness, nausea, or difficulty concentrating can begin 12 to 24 hours after stopping, peak within roughly one to two days, and usually resolve within 2 to 9 days.[10] 

• Gabapentin: Abruptly stopping gabapentin after regular use can cause anxiety, insomnia, nausea, sweating, pain, or other symptoms. Seizures can occur, particularly in people taking the medication for a seizure disorder. Do not stop gabapentin suddenly without speaking with the prescriber; a gradual dose reduction may be needed.[11] 

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) 

Some symptoms can continue or return after the main physical withdrawal period ends. This is often called post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS. SAMHSA uses the broader term “protracted withdrawal” and notes that anxiety, irritability, depressed mood, sleep problems, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and cravings may persist beyond the expected acute phase.[12] 

These symptoms do not follow a fixed schedule. They may come and go for weeks or months and can be affected by stress, sleep, mental health conditions, and the substance involved. Ongoing counseling, medical care, peer support, and a relapse-prevention plan can make this period more manageable. 

How to Safely Go Through Withdrawal 

Outpatient treatment programs can provide medical assessment, medication when appropriate, counseling, and recovery support while many patients continue living at home. Outpatient care is not right for every situation. Severe alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal, unstable medical or psychiatric conditions, pregnancy, a history of withdrawal seizures, or an unsafe home environment may require a higher level of care. 

Before stopping a substance, tell a healthcare professional what you have been using, how much, how often, when you last used it, and whether you use alcohol, prescription medications, or other substances at the same time. Honest information helps the care team reduce risk. 

Helpful supports may include: 

• Medication: Buprenorphine products, including Suboxone, Sublocade, Brixadi, and Subutex, and methadone can reduce opioid withdrawal and cravings when prescribed appropriately. Other medications may be used for alcohol withdrawal or specific symptoms.[13] 

• Professional monitoring: Medical check-ins can identify dehydration, high blood pressure, worsening mental health symptoms, or other complications. 

• Counseling and peer support: Individual and group counseling can help with cravings, triggers, and the emotional strain of early recovery. 

• Hydration, nutrition, and rest: Fluids, simple meals, and a regular sleep routine may support comfort, but they do not replace medical treatment when withdrawal is dangerous. 

• A safety plan: Keep naloxone available when opioids are involved, do not use alone, and know when to call 911. 

Suboxone and Buprenorphine Withdrawal 

Buprenorphine, one component of Suboxone, is a partial opioid agonist. Physical dependence can develop during regular use, and stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal. Because buprenorphine is long-acting, symptoms may begin later and last longer than withdrawal from some short-acting opioids. The experience varies, and a clinician-guided taper may reduce symptoms. Do not discontinue medication for opioid use disorder on your own; stopping treatment can increase the risk of returning to opioid use and overdose.[13] 

What Is Precipitated Withdrawal? 

Precipitated withdrawal is a sudden, intense onset of opioid withdrawal that can occur when buprenorphine is started before a person has entered sufficient withdrawal from a full opioid agonist such as heroin or fentanyl. Buprenorphine binds strongly to opioid receptors and can displace other opioids. The safest timing depends on the opioid used, time since last use, symptoms, and the treatment approach. SAMHSA advises that patients be in early withdrawal before a traditional buprenorphine start.[14] 

Do not try to calculate the timing alone, especially after fentanyl exposure. A trained clinician can evaluate withdrawal symptoms and discuss standard or alternative initiation approaches. 

If you are considering treatment, find a location near you to talk with a BrightView team member about the next step. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How long does opioid withdrawal last for fentanyl, oxycodone, or heroin? 

Withdrawal from short-acting opioids such as heroin often begins within 8 to 24 hours, peaks during the first few days, and improves within about 7 to 10 days. Oxycodone timing depends on whether the product is immediate- or extended-release. Fentanyl withdrawal can be less predictable, particularly when exposure has been frequent or prolonged. A medical professional should assess the person rather than relying only on the clock.[5] 

Is 7-OH the same as kratom? 

No. 7-OH is a compound related to kratom, but concentrated 7-OH products may contain much higher levels than are naturally present in kratom leaves. FDA treats concentrated 7-OH products as a distinct public health concern. Federal and state rules are changing, so check current official guidance rather than assuming the legal status is settled.[4] 

Can withdrawal be fatal? 

Yes, some types of withdrawal can be life-threatening. Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause seizures, delirium, and dangerous changes in vital signs. Seek medical guidance before stopping either substance after heavy, frequent, or long-term use, and call 911 for a seizure, hallucinations, severe confusion, breathing problems, or loss of consciousness.[2][3] 

How long does Suboxone withdrawal last? 

There is no single timeline. Because buprenorphine is long-acting, withdrawal may begin later and continue longer than withdrawal from some short-acting opioids. Dose, length of treatment, taper speed, health, and other substance use all matter. Work with the prescribing clinician on a gradual plan, and do not stop medication for opioid use disorder without medical guidance.[13] 

Get Support for Withdrawal and Addiction Recovery Today 

If you or someone you love is worried about withdrawal, you do not have to wait until symptoms become severe to ask for help. BrightView® treats addiction as a disease and every patient as a person. Our team can assess your needs, explain treatment options, and help determine whether outpatient care is appropriate. 

BrightView works with many insurance plans and can help patients understand available payment options. Call 888.501.9865 or schedule an appointment online. 

This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or emergency care. 

Sources 

1. National Cancer Institute. “Definition of Withdrawal.”  
2. American Society of Addiction Medicine. The ASAM Clinical Practice Guideline on Alcohol  
3. American Society of Addiction Medicine. “Benzodiazepine Tapering.”  
4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Hiding in Plain Sight: 7-OH Products.” Updated July 13, 2026.  
5. MedlinePlus. “Opiate and Opioid Withdrawal.”  
6. World Health Organization. Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings.  
7. Connor, J. P., et al. “Clinical Management of Cannabis Withdrawal.” Addiction. 2022.  
8. National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Kratom.” Updated March 11, 2026.  
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “7 Common Withdrawal Symptoms.”  
10. Juliano, L. M., and Griffiths, R. R. “A Critical Review of Caffeine Withdrawal.” Psychopharmacology.  
11. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Neurontin Prescribing Information.  
12. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Protracted Withdrawal.  
13. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Medications for Substance Use Disorders.”  
14. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Buprenorphine Quick Start Guide.