How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

“How long does alcohol withdrawal last” is one of the most common questions asked by those thinking about alcohol detox. In most cases, the alcohol withdrawal process is complete within one to two weeks, following this alcohol detox timeline:

• 6 hours: Minor withdrawal symptoms often present approximately six hours after the last alcoholic beverage. In some cases, those with a long history of heavy drinking may even experience seizures during this early phase.

• 12 to 24 hours: At this point of detox, a small percentage of individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal may experience hallucinations, hearing or seeing things that are not present.

• 24 to 48 hours: Minor withdrawal symptoms tend to persist during this period. These symptoms can include headaches, tremors, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If someone is going through mild alcohol withdrawal, symptoms typically peak after 18 to 24 hours, subsiding after four to five days.

• 48 to 72 hours: Some individuals may encounter DTs (delirium tremens). DTs can lead to an extremely rapid heart rate, alcohol withdrawal seizures, or high body temperature and can be fatal if unmanaged.

• 72 hours: This is the time when alcohol withdrawal symptoms are typically at their most intense. In rare cases, moderate withdrawal symptoms may persist for up to a month (post-acute withdrawal syndrome).

• 3 to 5 days: Most physical withdrawal symptoms tend to improve within this timeframe. Symptoms such as tremors, headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, and rapid heart rate will gradually subside.

• 5 to 7 days: Psychological symptoms of alcohol withdrawal – anxiety, irritability, depression, and insomnia – may persist or even intensify during this period. It’s common for individuals to experience mood swings and difficulty sleeping.

• 1 to 2 weeks: Most physical symptoms should have resolved by this point, but psychological symptoms may still persist. It is not uncommon for individuals to continue experiencing cravings for alcohol.

• 2 weeks and onwards: Psychological symptoms can continue to linger for several weeks or even months after quitting alcohol. PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) may include symptoms like anxiety, depression, mood swings, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and trouble sleeping. However, these symptoms gradually lessen over time.

How many days alcohol withdrawal lasts will depend on factors that include:

• Duration of alcohol abuse

• Extent of alcohol abuse

• Co-occurring mental health disorders

• Physical health status

• Use of other addictive substances

Alcohol withdrawal can be a serious medical condition, especially for those with a history of heavy or prolonged alcohol use. If you’re wondering how long alcohol withdrawal lasts, seeking professional medical assistance and supervision during the withdrawal process is strongly advised to ensure safety and appropriate care.

When Do Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Start?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink, although they can vary depending on the individual’s drinking history and overall health. Early symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and tremors. As withdrawal progresses, symptoms can become more severe, including hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens (DTs). 

The intensity of these symptoms usually peaks within 48 to 72 hours and gradually subsides over the following days. It’s important to note that alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, and medical supervision is recommended to ensure a safe and successful recovery process.

Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Symptoms

When someone consumes alcohol heavily and repeatedly, it affects the brain’s receptors and leads to tolerance and physical dependence. Abruptly stopping alcohol consumption can trigger uncontrolled firing in the CNS (central nervous system), triggering various withdrawal symptoms that can range in severity within a matter of hours.

Mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Nausea

• Mild itching

• Slight tremors

• Heightened sensitivity to sounds and light

• Clammy feeling

• Mild headaches

Moderate alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Frequent nausea and dry retching

• Pins and needles, burning sensations, or numbness

• Visible tremors when holding outstretched arms

• Increased sensitivity to noises and discomfort with bright light

• Sweating, anxiety, and restlessness

• Decreased mental alertness, such as not knowing the day of the week

Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Persistent nausea, retching, and vomiting

• Hallucinations, including auditory, visual, or tactile sensations

• Coarse tremors

• Profuse sweating

• Acute confusion, inability to recognize surroundings or familiar people

In the event of delirium tremens, individuals may experience seizures as alcohol acts as a depressant of the CNS (central nervous system depressant), and sudden withdrawal can trigger hyperactivity in the CNS.

Alcohol Withdrawal FAQs

How long do symptoms last when you quit drinking?

The duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary, but they typically begin within hours after the last drink and can last for a few days to a week or more.

What happens 4 days after you stop drinking?

Around four days after quitting drinking, individuals may experience the peak of withdrawal symptoms, which can include anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and hallucinations in severe cases.

What is the most serious withdrawal symptom associated with alcoholism?

DTs (delirium tremens) is considered the most serious withdrawal symptom associated with alcoholism. It is characterized by severe confusion, hallucinations, fever, and seizures and requires immediate medical attention.

What happens after 3 weeks of no alcohol?

After three weeks of abstaining from alcohol, individuals may start to experience physical and mental improvements, such as better sleep, increased energy levels, improved mood, and a reduction in cravings. However, it’s important to note that the recovery process varies for each individual, and long-term support and treatment are often necessary for sustained sobriety.

Can alcohol withdrawal last 2 weeks?

Yes, alcohol withdrawal can last up to 2 weeks or even longer depending on the individual based on their medical history, alcohol consumption history, and more. 

How long does withdrawal from alcohol last?

While the worst withdrawals from alcohol only last for the first week or so, symptoms can span 2 or more weeks depending on the person.

Treatment for Alcohol Withdrawal 

When it comes to managing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, there are several treatment options available. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms, individual needs, and professional recommendations. Treatment can be administered in either an inpatient or outpatient setting, depending on the individual’s circumstances and the level of medical monitoring required.

The following medications may be administered during alcohol withdrawal:

• Benzodiazepines: Medications such as diazepam (Valium), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and lorazepam (Ativan) are commonly used to alleviate alcohol withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. They help reduce anxiety, tremors, seizures, and insomnia by acting on the CNS. These medications should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional due to their potential for misuse and dependence.

• Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication that can help individuals with alcohol use disorder maintain sobriety. It works by reducing alcohol cravings and blocking the pleasurable effects of alcohol if a relapse occurs. Naltrexone can be administered orally or via a monthly injection (Vivitrol).

• Acamprosate: Acamprosate is another FDA-approved medication used to support abstinence in individuals with alcoholism. It helps stabilize brain chemistry, reducing alcohol cravings and promoting long-term sobriety.

• Antidepressants: Antidepressant medications may be prescribed to individuals experiencing depression or anxiety during alcohol withdrawal or those with a co-occurring mental health condition.

• Anticonvulsants: Certain anticonvulsant medications, such as gabapentin or carbamazepine, may be used to control seizures or manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms.