Duration Of Meth Withdrawal
Q: How long does it take to withdraw from meth?
A: Meth withdrawal will vary person-by-person. In fact, each detox manifests different symptoms and will last different amounts of time. Generally, this time period depends on the level of dependence and frequency of meth use.
We explain more about how long do withdrawal symptoms from meth last below. Plus, you’ll find an easy-to-follow timeline in our visual presentation. If you find it educational, please feel free to share it, or use it! Then, we invite you to post your questions or comments about meth withdrawal at the end. In fact, we try to answer your real life question(s) personally and promptly!
Meth Withdrawal Timeline
Meth withdrawal can be severe, harsh, and very uncomfortable… BUT it won’t last forever! Symptoms occur within a few hours after the intake of the last methamphetamine dose. Generally, withdrawal from meth lasts from 1 to 2 weeks, up to a month or more (in some extreme cases).
Here’s a common timeline of meth withdrawal with detailed symptoms to easily guide you on what to expect.
24-72 hours after last meth dose:
- Depression
- Exhaustion
- Hallucinations
- Panic
- Paranoia
- Suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety
- Sleepiness
4-7 days of Meth Withdrawal Symptoms:
- Aches & pains
- Agitation
- Cravings
- Hunger
- Irritability
- Mood swings
Week 2 Methamphetamine Withdrawal:
- Cravings
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Sleep disorders
Week 3-4 Withdraw Symptoms from Meth:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Energy regain
- Fatigue
- Improved sleep
- Increased appetite
- Mood stabilization
- Nervousness
How Long To Withdraw From Meth?
Withdrawal from meth is most severe and intense in the acute phase of withdrawal, reaching its peak during the first 24 hours and fading out by the first week of the last meth intake. On one hand, physical symptoms resolve quickly. On the other hand, cravings are present during the whole meth withdrawal process and are often the biggest obstacle to recovery.
NOTE HERE: Some meth users may undergo withdrawal symptoms for months. This period is known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), and these symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Depression
- Mood swings
Prolonged meth withdrawal can last up to six months or more. So, it’s best to seek medical help during withdrawal from meth in order to receive psychological and emotional support that fits your needs. Even though meth withdrawal symptoms can persist and affect your mood… you are not alone, and with strong supports, you can walk the road of recovery!
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Meth Withdrawal Timeline Questions
If you or someone you love has been displaying any of the above symptoms of meth withdrawal, there is something you can do. Call 1-877-845-1107 to receive more information and potential treatment options.
Got any questions? Feel free to leave them in the section below. We try to respond to all legitimate questions promptly and personally.
Reference Sources: NCBI: Withdrawal symptoms in abstinent methamphetamine-dependent subjects
MethHelp: Meth withdrawal
NCBI: The nature, time course and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal
NCBI: Withdrawal symptoms in abstinent methamphetamine-dependent subjects
ND Meth Summit
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