Recovering from addiction is not easy, with only 1 in 5 people staying sober through their first year. However, the most challenging obstacle may be the first 72 hours of the detox stage.
During this time, patients experience withdrawal symptoms that make them want to go back to using. However, medical detox and supervision can make the process easier to bear.
Patients may also be better prepared if they know what to expect in the first 72 hours of detox. This article will outline the process.
What to Expect in the First 72 Hours of Detox
Substance abuse produces various changes in the body, making it dependent on drugs and alcohol. During withdrawal, the body adjusts to a new state of homeostasis, ridding itself of lingering chemicals. This causes temporary disruptions in the brain, producing mental and physical symptoms, such as:
- Tremors
- Muscle aches and pains
- Depression and anxiety
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Paranoia
- Seizures
- Sweating
- Fatigue
- Changes in appetite
Symptoms are typically more pronounced in the first 72 hours and decrease over time.
Professional detox can reduce discomfort associated with detox through medication and relaxation techniques. An aide will also oversee the process to reduce the risk of relapse.
Detoxification Timelines
People undergoing detoxification may wonder, How long will this last? Most patients begin experiencing relief within 72 hours. However, timelines vary depending on the substance you are recovering from, how much you were using, and various biological factors.
The following provides examples so you can better understand what to expect based on the substance you are recovering from:
Alcohol
Withdrawal symptoms typically set in a few hours after your last drink and peak within 24-72 hours, with delirium tremens beginning at the 48–72-hour mark. This symptom typically stops within 3-4 days but can last as long as eight days.
Common withdrawal symptoms include:
6-12 hours
- Cravings
- Depression
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Nausea
12-24 Hours
- Moderate withdrawal symptoms
- Hallucinations and paranoia
48-72 Hours
- Fever
- Delirium
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Seizures
- Confusion
- High risk of delirium tremens
Opioids
Your recovery timeline will vary depending on the type of opioids you are recovering from. For example, with short-acting opioids, such as heroin, prescription painkillers, withdrawal symptoms set in within 8-24 hours and can last up to four to ten days. However, patients typically experience some relief within 72 hours.
With long-acting opioids such as methadone, it may take 2-4 days for withdrawal symptoms to appear. They will likely fade within 10 days.
In any event, your withdrawal timeline may occur as follows:
6-24 hours:
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Trembling and nervousness
- Stomach pain
24-48 hours
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Severe mood swings
48-72 hours
Symptoms will decrease, but you may still experience depression and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines
With these drugs, which are often used and abused for their calming effects, withdrawal symptoms may occur 1-4 days after the last use and peak within the first two weeks. Here is a sample timeline, guiding your expectations.
6-24 hours
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
24-48 hours
- Panic
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Clouded thinking
- Mood swings
- Drug cravings
- Loss of appetite
- Suicidal thoughts
48-72 hours
Symptoms may continue for up to 2 weeks before subsiding.
Cocaine
With cocaine detox, withdrawal symptoms may not set in until 4-7 days after the last dose. Early symptoms of this crash phase include:
- Vivid dreams and nightmares
- Depression
- Dehydration risk
Within 1-2 weeks, these symptoms become more intense. At the 2-4 week point, individuals will experience extreme cravings and irritability.
How Professionals Assist in the Detox Process
People often relapse in the early stages of detoxification because they know that substance use will relieve these symptoms. For example, people experiencing withdrawal symptoms may mention wanting drugs so they can “Get well.” This is somewhat ironic, as drugs actually make them sicker.
In any event, in a professional setting, aides are often on hand to prevent relapse in the early stages of recovery. They provide the following services:
- Evaluation: Aides will evaluate the patient’s physical and mental health and level of substance abuse to determine the best course of action.
- Supervision: They will supervise the patient, ensuring they don’t access substances and helping them maintain high comfort levels.
- Medical Detox: Aides will provide medications that reduce cravings and address issues like pain and nausea.
- Personalized Approach: Other techniques may be integrated based on the person’s withdrawal symptoms, emotional state, and individualized needs.
- Transition to Treatment: The center will determine the best long-term recovery plan.
What Medications are Used in Medical Detox?
Medications are often used in the detox process to improve survival rates, increase treatment retention, and support a patient’s ability to gain and maintain employment. They can also improve birth rates in people with SUDs who are pregnant.
Medications commonly used in detox treatment include:
- Clonidine and Lofexidine are used to reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms.
- Buprenorphine is a partial antagonist medication that controls cravings and reduces withdrawal symptoms related to opioid addiction.
- Methadone is a long-acting full opioid antagonist used to support opioid recovery.
- Other medications, such as pain and nausea relievers, may be used to reduce specific symptoms as needed.
What Does Detox Follow-Up Involve?
The first 72 hours of rehab focus on ridding the body of chemicals and managing withdrawal symptoms. After patients overcome this initial stage, they enter therapy to address the underlying cause of addiction, ensuring long-term recovery.
Research reveals that ongoing treatment reduces relapse rates, which are as high as 37% after a three-month follow-up and are more likely to occur in people with 2-4 months of treatment as opposed to those who undergo 6 months or more of treatment.
Clients may engage in the following programs to maintain sobriety:
- Therapy: Patients will undergo therapy that addresses the underlying causes of addiction. Popular methods include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, family therapy, and trauma-informed therapy. They may also attend ongoing group therapy sessions for peer support.
- Lifestyle Maintenance: Clients are typically recommended a regimen of healthy behaviors to prevent substance abuse. They will maintain lifestyle changes and report to therapists to ensure continuity.
- Events: Many rehab facilities will host events and invite former patients so they can reduce isolation that can contribute to substance abuse.
Is Detox Inpatient or Outpatient?
Detox can occur in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Inpatients will receive round-the-clock supervision, while outpatients can detox at home but will visit the facility for therapy sessions and medication administration.
While both methods can be successful, inpatient care offers continuous supervision, which can reduce relapse and lead to higher recovery rates. Additionally, a Leora Behavioral Health Study reveals that outpatient alcohol detoxification lasted just 6.5 days while inpatient detox lasts 9 days, suggesting a more comprehensive program.
After the initial detox, patients may continue recovery in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
How BlueCrest Detox Assists in the Recovery Process
BlueCrest is a recommended facility for detox and beyond. We utilize a comprehensive approach that addresses our clients’ physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Our team combines various traditional and holistic therapies to produce overall well-being.
Patients recover in our luxurious private rooms, enjoying full amenities and nutritious gourmet meals. Medical care providers are available around the clock, and our continuum of care addresses every stage of recovery.
Contact us to learn how we can support your optimal well-being.
FAQs
What is Protracted Detox?
Protracted withdrawal occurs when withdrawal symptoms last longer than usual, sometimes spanning months or years. They may be more likely to occur in heavy users or be related to genetics or overall health. Those who experience protracted detox are at a higher risk of relapse but can be treated with comprehensive ongoing care.
Can Drug Detox Be Lethal?
Drug detox can be lethal, but it’s rare. For example, those recovering from alcohol abuse may experience delirium tremens that can lead to seizures and potential death. Additionally, opioid withdrawal can be so uncomfortable that patients have a high risk of relapse and may go back to using, putting their lives at risk.
Assisted detox, including medication management, reduces these risks.
How Do I Know I Need Drug Detox?
Detoxification is necessary if drug addiction starts interfering with your life. You will notice you are unable to function correctly without drugs and alcohol. When this begins, you should seek help immediately to ensure a more successful and less painful recovery process.
What Reduces Withdrawal Symptoms?
Medications can reduce withdrawal symptoms. However, those who want to detox naturally can minimize symptoms with a healthy diet that’s rich in good carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, protein, healthy fats, and plenty of water.
What Factors Affect the Withdrawal Timeline?
Most people will detox from drugs and overcome withdrawal symptoms within 3 to 10 days. However, symptoms may last longer for heavy users and people with health issues. Genetics can also impact recovery timelines.
