How Long Does It Take to Detox from Drugs?
If you or a loved one is considering enrolling in a detox program at Sanford Behavioral Health’s detox center, you will likely want to know more about what you can expect. Many people ask: How long does it take to detox from drugs? How long does it take for a drug to be cleared from the body? How long does it take for your body to get rid of an addiction? Familiarizing yourself with detox timelines for different types of drugs and what factors impact how long it may take your body to detox can help you prepare for your detox experience.
How long does it take to detox from drugs?
Everyone’s experience with detox is unique, and symptoms may vary in intensity and duration. This will also make the length of time it takes to detox from drugs dependent on each patient’s unique situation and several other factors, including the type of substance used. Here’s an overview of the typical detox timelines for some commonly used addictive substances:
Opioid detox timeline
Opioid detox usually takes about five to 10 days, with the first 24 hours involving withdrawal symptoms like sweating, muscle aches, and anxiety. Symptoms often peak from days two through four and can involve intense cravings, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Physical symptoms start to subside from days five through 10, although the psychological symptoms, like depression and insomnia, can continue for several weeks.
Alcohol detox timeline
Alcohol detox tends to last five to seven days, with withdrawal symptoms beginning about six to 12 hours after the last drink, such as headaches, shaking, nausea, vomiting, and insomnia. The most severe symptoms usually occur 24 to 72 hours after consumption and begin to subside by the seventh day.
Stimulant detox timeline
Stimulant detox typically takes five to seven days, with the first few days involving fatigue, depression, and intense cravings. Symptoms are at their worst within the first week and gradually subside over the next few weeks. However, psychological symptoms, like anxiety and depression, can sometimes last several weeks or even months after the last use.
How long does it take for a drug to be cleared from the body?
The time it takes for a drug to be cleared from the body varies from person to person. Factors that affect detox duration include:
- Type of drug used: Some drugs have a shorter half-life and leave the body faster than others. For example, Xanax has a half-life of six to 12 hours, while Valium has a half-life of 20 to 100 hours, so Xanax would be cleared from the body faster.
- Duration of substance use: The detox process can last longer in those who have used drugs over a long period or in high doses.
- Liver health: As the organ responsible for processing the toxins you consume, your liver’s health plays a crucial role in how long it takes to eliminate toxic substances like drugs.
- Hydration level: Dehydration can slow your body’s ability to process and eliminate drugs.
- Age: Older adults tend to have slower metabolisms and may take longer to detox from drugs.
- Genetics: Your genetics can impact how quickly or slowly you metabolize drugs.
- Co-occurring health conditions: Certain health conditions, like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease, can impair your body’s ability to metabolize drugs effectively.
Most drugs take approximately five to 10 days to leave your system, but the above factors can affect the duration of each individual’s detox experience.
How long does it take for your body to get rid of addiction?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it can take to rid your body of addiction since each person has different circumstances. Detox is a starting point in the recovery journey, and there is more work to do to overcome addiction. Participating in addiction treatment, along with aftercare or alumni programs, can provide the support you need to sustain long-term recovery. These programs can last from several weeks to months and even years—particularly for aftercare or alumni support—but your recovery timeline will be as unique as you are.
Contact Sanford Behavioral Health for detox support
At Sanford Behavioral Health, we strive to provide a unique approach to healing from substance use disorders. Our integrative programs address all areas of your life through behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and holistic therapies like nature and exercise therapy. With a variety of residential, outpatient, and telehealth treatment options, along with on-site supportive housing, you are sure to find a structure level that meets your recovery needs. Call us today at 616.202.3326 or contact us using our online form to get the support you need throughout detox and beyond.
