How Long Does Heroin Withdrawal Last? A Timeline of Symptoms and Recovery
Heroin withdrawal can be intense and difficult, especially in the first few days after stopping use. If you’re thinking about quitting heroin for good or supporting someone who is, it’s common to ask how long withdrawal lasts and what to expect during recovery. These questions are important, and the answers can help you prepare for a safer, more supported experience.
Sanford Behavioral Health helps people overcome heroin addiction through compassionate, expert-led treatment programs that make recovery possible. We offer levels of care that fit recovery goals so people can overcome addiction and start a healthier future.
What causes heroin withdrawal?
Heroin is an opioid that binds to receptors in the brain, creating a powerful high and a deep sense of relief. Over time, the body depends on heroin to function normally. When someone stops heroin use, the brain and nervous system go into overdrive trying to regain balance—this process is what causes withdrawal.
Withdrawal symptoms are your body’s way of adjusting to life without the drug. They can vary based on many factors, but they follow a general pattern.
Heroin withdrawal timeline: What to expect
So, how long does heroin withdrawal last? The answer depends on your personal health, how long and how much you’ve used, and whether you’re getting medical support. However, withdrawal typically follows this general timeline:
Six to 12 hours after the last use
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Muscle aches
- Runny nose and sweating
- Trouble sleeping
One to three days after last use (peak symptoms)
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Intense body aches and chills
- Cramping and stomach pain
- Depression or irritability
Four to seven days after the last use
- Symptoms begin to ease
- Fatigue, mood swings, and cravings may continue
- Sleep issues and body discomfort may persist
One to four weeks after last use (post-acute withdrawal)
- Lingering anxiety or depression
- Sleep disturbances
- Drug cravings
- Emotional ups and downs
While the most intense symptoms usually last about a week, emotional and psychological symptoms can continue for weeks or even months. Support during this time is crucial to help individuals cope and recover.
What affects the length of heroin withdrawal?
Many people ask, “What affects the length of heroin withdrawal?” The truth is, no two people experience withdrawal the same way. Several factors can influence how long symptoms last and how severe they feel:
- Length and frequency of heroin use
- Amount of heroin used
- Whether other substances were used
- Your physical and mental health
- Whether you quit heroin on your own or with medical supervision
People who try to detox without support often relapse—not because they aren’t strong, but because withdrawal can be overwhelming without medical care, rest, and encouragement.
How long does heroin stay in your system?
Heroin leaves the body quickly, but its effects on the brain and nervous system last much longer. In general, heroin can be detected in:
- Blood: Up to six hours
- Urine: One to three days
- Saliva: Up to 24 hours
- Hair: Up to 90 days
Even though the drug clears from the body fairly fast, withdrawal symptoms continue as the brain readjusts to life without opioids.
How treatment can support heroin withdrawal
You don’t have to experience withdrawal alone. A professional addiction treatment program can make detox safer, less painful, and more successful. Sanford Behavioral Health offers heroin detox and long-term recovery programs that focus on both physical and emotional healing.
Benefits of professional detox can include:
- 24/7 medical supervision and support
- Medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Mental health care for depression, anxiety, or trauma
- A structured, peaceful environment to focus on recovery
- Peer support and group therapy to reduce isolation
Trying to detox alone increases the risk of relapse, overdose, or emotional distress. But in a supervised setting, you’re surrounded by people who understand what you’re going through and are trained to help you succeed.
Why support matters after detox
Withdrawal is just the first step in recovery. Once the body adjusts, it’s time to build new habits, learn healthy coping skills, and heal from the emotional side of addiction. Ongoing addiction treatment and care after detox are essential for long-term recovery. Sanford Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care, including residential treatment, outpatient programs, and long-term support. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step, we’re here to help.
Get the expert care and support you need at Sanford Behavioral Health
If you’re wondering, “How long does heroin withdrawal last?” Now is the time to take the next step. With the right medical care and emotional support, you don’t have to face withdrawal or recovery alone. At Sanford Behavioral Health, we provide personalized treatment plans, 24/7 medical supervision, and long-term recovery support to help you safely detox and stay on track. Take control of your recovery and start building a healthier future today. Call 616.202.3326 or reach out through our online contact form to get started.
