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“How long will detox take?” is one of the first questions people ask when they are ready to start recovery. Understanding the detox duration for your specific substance helps you plan, set realistic expectations, and commit to the process with confidence. At iRely Recovery, every detox timeline is built around your individual needs, not a fixed schedule.
The truth is that detox timelines vary significantly depending on the substance, how long you have been using, the severity of your dependence, and your overall health. Alcohol detox follows a very different timeline than opioid detox, and benzodiazepine withdrawal requires an entirely separate approach. There is no universal number of days that applies to everyone.
In this guide, we break down the expected detox duration for the most common substances, explain the factors that influence your personal timeline, and show how iRely Recovery in Los Angeles provides the individualized care that every detox requires.
Alcohol Detox Timeline
Alcohol withdrawal is one of the most medically serious forms of detox. Symptoms typically begin within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink and peak between 24 and 72 hours.
- Hours 6 to 24: mild anxiety, tremors, headache, nausea
- Hours 24 to 72: peak withdrawal intensity, risk of seizures
- Days 3 to 7: symptoms begin to stabilize in most cases
- Days 7 to 14: post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) may persist including mood swings, sleep disruption, and cravings
Severe alcohol withdrawal, including delirium tremens, can occur in up to 5% of withdrawal cases and requires immediate medical intervention. Medical supervision throughout the full alcohol detox timeline is essential.
Opioid Detox Timeline
Opioid withdrawal duration depends heavily on whether short-acting or long-acting opioids were used.
Short-Acting Opioids (heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone)
- Symptoms begin: 8 to 24 hours after last use
- Peak: 36 to 72 hours
- Acute phase ends: 5 to 7 days
Long-Acting Opioids (methadone, extended-release morphine)
- Symptoms begin: 36 to 48 hours after last use
- Peak: 72 to 96 hours
- Acute phase may extend: up to 3 weeks
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using buprenorphine or methadone can significantly reduce withdrawal severity and duration. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) may cause fatigue, anxiety, and cravings for months after acute detox is complete.
Benzodiazepine Detox Timeline
Benzodiazepine detox is particularly complex and requires a medically supervised tapering protocol. Abrupt cessation can cause life-threatening seizures.
- Short-acting benzos (Xanax, Ativan): symptoms begin within 6 to 12 hours, peak at 1 to 4 days, acute phase lasts 1 to 2 weeks
- Long-acting benzos (Valium, Klonopin): symptoms begin within 24 to 48 hours, peak at 1 to 2 weeks, acute phase can last 2 to 4 weeks or longer
The full taper process for long-term benzodiazepine users may take several months under clinical supervision.
Stimulant Detox Timeline (Meth and Cocaine)
Stimulant withdrawal does not typically cause dangerous physical symptoms but produces intense psychological withdrawal:
- Days 1 to 3: intense fatigue, increased sleep, depression, increased appetite
- Days 4 to 7: mood instability, strong cravings, difficulty concentrating
- Weeks 2 to 4: gradual improvement with ongoing psychological support
Factors That Affect Your Detox Duration
- Substance type and potency
- Duration and frequency of use
- Polysubstance use (using multiple substances)
- Age and overall physical health
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- History of previous detox attempts
- Genetic factors that influence metabolism
How iRely Recovery Personalizes Your Detox Timeline
At iRely Recovery, we conduct a comprehensive intake assessment on day one to understand your full substance use history, medical background, and mental health status. This assessment guides the development of a personalized detox protocol that adapts as your withdrawal progresses. Our clinical team continuously monitors your symptoms and adjusts medications and support accordingly. We do not apply a one-size-fits-all approach. Every timeline at iRely Recovery is treated as unique.
Start Your Recovery with a Clear Plan
If you or a loved one is ready to begin detox, call iRely Recovery at 818-873-7076 or visit irelyrecovery.com/contact-us. Our admissions team will answer your questions about expected timelines, insurance coverage, and what to bring for your first day of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about detox duration and timelines.
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