Drug Withdrawal: Definition, Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment in Nevada

Drug withdrawal occurs when the body reacts to the absence of a substance it has grown dependent on. This response is caused by neurochemical changes in the brain due to repeated drug use, especially substances like opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines. In 2022, 20.9% of individuals aged 12 or older in Nevada had a substance use disorder (SUD), surpassing the national average, with 12.7% specifically experiencing drug use disorder.

The signs and symptoms of drug withdrawal vary depending on the drug but include nausea, anxiety, tremors, sweating, insomnia, and severe cravings. These symptoms unfold in stages, beginning with onset in the first 6 to 12 hours, peaking within 1 to 3 days, and resolving over a week or more. Treatment includes medications like methadone for opioids, benzodiazepines for alcohol, or clonidine for general discomfort.

What Is Drug Withdrawal?

Drug withdrawal is the physical and psychological response that occurs when a person suddenly reduces or stops using a substance they have become dependent on. It happens because the body and brain have adapted to the presence of the drug, and when it is no longer available, the system struggles to function normally. This condition, known as withdrawal syndrome, causes a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe complications, depending on the substance and duration of use. Common substances that cause withdrawal include opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and nicotine.

What Does Drug Withdrawal Feel Like?

Drug withdrawal feels like an overwhelming mix of physical discomfort and emotional instability. Individuals report flu-like symptoms, body aches, sweating, nausea, paired with intense anxiety, restlessness, and mood swings. Cravings for the substance feel all-consuming, similar to intense hunger or thirst, making it extremely difficult to focus or function normally.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Drug Withdrawal?  

The signs and symptoms of drug withdrawal are physical, emotional, and cognitive effects that emerge when a person stops or reduces substance use. These symptoms vary based on the drug type, duration of use, and individual health. Some symptoms are mild and temporary, while others are dangerous and require medical intervention.

The signs and symptoms of drug withdrawal are as follows:

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common psychological symptom of drug withdrawal. It arises from the brain’s reliance on substances to regulate mood and stress responses. During withdrawal, this imbalance leads to restlessness, panic, and irrational fears. According to Caetano R, Clark CL, and Greenfield TK. et al. 1998, titled “Prevalence, trends, and incidence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms: analysis of general population and clinical samples,” 86% of Americans undergoing alcohol withdrawal experience anxiety and depression.

Nausea

Nausea is a distressing physical symptom marked by an urge to vomit. It frequently occurs in opioid and alcohol withdrawal due to disruptions in the gastrointestinal system. Nausea and vomiting lead to dehydration if left untreated. Caetano R, Clark CL, and Greenfield TK. et al. 1998, titled “Prevalence, trends, and incidence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms: analysis of general population and clinical samples,” report that 61% of white Americans experience these symptoms during alcohol withdrawal.

Sweating

Sweating is an autonomic response to chemical imbalance during withdrawal. It signals the body’s attempt to stabilize itself after substance cessation. Seen in alcohol, opioid, and stimulant withdrawal, excessive sweating occurs alongside chills. Caetano R, Clark CL, and Greenfield TK. et al. 1998, titled “Prevalence, trends, and incidence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms: analysis of general population and clinical samples,” found that 75% of white Americans experience this symptom during alcohol detox.

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common withdrawal symptom characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep. It results from the brain’s struggle to adjust without the sedative effects of substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or stimulants. This sleep disturbance can persist for weeks, contributing to fatigue and mood instability. According to Caetano R, Clark CL, and Greenfield TK. et al. 1998, titled “Prevalence, trends, and incidence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms: analysis of general population and clinical samples,” approximately 68% of individuals withdrawing from alcohol report significant sleep disruptions.

Tremors

Tremors are involuntary muscle shakes caused by nervous system overactivity. They are most pronounced in alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal. Tremors indicate significant withdrawal severity and escalate to seizures if not monitored medically.

Do All Drugs Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

Not all drugs cause withdrawal symptoms. Substances like opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines lead to significant withdrawal due to their impact on brain chemistry. In contrast, drugs like LSD, psilocybin, or other psychedelics do not cause physical withdrawal because they don’t create chemical dependence in the brain, as studied by Nichols DE. et al. 2016, titled “Psychedelics.” Withdrawal likelihood depends on how a substance interacts with the brain’s reward and regulation systems.

What Causes Drug Withdrawal?

The causes of drug withdrawal are rooted in the brain’s adaptation to long-term substance use. When a person repeatedly uses drugs, the brain adjusts its neurotransmitter levels, such as dopamine or GABA, to accommodate the drug’s presence. When the drug is suddenly removed, this balance is disrupted, leading to a withdrawal syndrome marked by physical and psychological symptoms as the brain tries to recalibrate.

What is the Drug Withdrawal Timeline for Different Substances?

The duration and intensity of drug withdrawal vary widely, depending on the type of substance, usage patterns, and individual physiology. Alcohol withdrawal typically lasts 5 to 7 days, opioid withdrawal ranges from 4 to 10 days, benzodiazepine withdrawal can stretch over weeks to months, stimulant withdrawal spans days to weeks, and cannabis withdrawal generally lasts around 1 to 2 weeks. The timeline is influenced by factors like the drug’s half-life, dosage, duration of use, and personal health status.

Alcohol
Alcohol withdrawal usually begins 6 to 12 hours after the last drink, peaking around 24 to 72 hours, and resolving within 5 to 7 days. Early alcohol withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, tremors, and nausea, while severe cases may involve delirium tremens (DTs), seizures, and hallucinations. Medical supervision is essential to manage these potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Opioids
Opioid withdrawal timelines differ based on the type of opioid. Short-acting opioids like heroin and fentanyl typically produce symptoms within 8 to 12 hours, peak within 1 to 3 days, and subside within 7 to 10 days. Longer-acting opioids like methadone have a more extended withdrawal period, often lasting 2 to 4 weeks. Symptoms include intense cravings, muscle aches, and flu-like discomfort.

Benzodiazepines
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can start within 1 to 4 days for short-acting types (e.g., alprazolam) and 3 to 7 days for long-acting types (e.g., diazepam). Symptoms, including anxiety, seizures, and insomnia, can persist for weeks or even months. A slow tapering process under medical guidance is essential to reduce the risk of severe withdrawal effects.

Stimulants
Stimulant withdrawal, such as from cocaine or methamphetamine, starts within hours to a day after the last use, peaks at 2 to 4 days, and generally resolves within 1 to 2 weeks. Common symptoms include fatigue, depression, and irritability. While physical symptoms are typically mild, psychological symptoms like cravings and mood disturbances can linger for months.

Cannabis
Cannabis withdrawal begins 24 to 48 hours after the last use, peaks within 3 to 7 days, and generally subsides within 1 to 2 weeks. Symptoms include sleep disturbances, irritability, reduced appetite, and mood swings. Though less severe than other substances, the psychological impact can be substantial, particularly for chronic users.

How Is Drug Withdrawal Treated?

Drug withdrawal is treated through medical detoxification, medication-assisted therapy (MAT), rehabilitation programs, and counseling. The approach to managing withdrawal varies based on the specific substance, the intensity of symptoms, and the individual’s physical and mental health. A combination of medical intervention and emotional support is often the most effective way to navigate withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse.

• Detox: Detox is the carefully monitored process of allowing the body to eliminate harmful substances while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. This critical phase is essential for substances with significant withdrawal risks, including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids. Detox is typically conducted in medical facilities where professionals can provide continuous care and intervention as needed.
  
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. It is an evidence-based approach proven to improve long-term recovery outcomes.
  
• Rehabilitation Programs: Rehabilitation programs provide structured environments for recovery, offering varying levels of intensity based on individual needs. Inpatient rehab is ideal for severe addictions requiring intensive support, while outpatient rehab allows individuals to continue daily activities while receiving structured therapy.
  
• Counseling: Counseling provides the emotional and psychological support needed for a successful recovery. It helps individuals understand their addiction, build coping skills, and address underlying mental health issues.

What medications are used to treat drug withdrawal in Nevada?

The common medications used to treat drug withdrawal in Nevada are methadone, benzodiazepine, and clonidine. These medications are designed to ease symptoms, stabilize the nervous system, and prevent complications. These drug withdrawal medications are selected based on the substance involved and the severity of withdrawal, with medical supervision required for safety and effectiveness.

The medications used to treat drug withdrawal are as follows:

• Methadone (opioids): Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist used to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings in individuals detoxing from opioids like heroin or fentanyl. It helps stabilize the body without producing the euphoric high associated with illicit opioids, allowing for a gradual taper and smoother detox experience. Research by Kamali-Sarvestani et al. 2014, titled “The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Pain and Forward Head Posture among Heroin Users during their Withdrawal with Methadone,” found that severe pain rates in methadone users rose from 24.5% to 53.4% during withdrawal. These findings are consistent with earlier studies highlighting pain as a significant factor leading to treatment dropout.
  
• Benzodiazepines (alcohol): For alcohol withdrawal, benzodiazepines such as diazepam or lorazepam are prescribed to prevent seizures, reduce anxiety, and manage agitation. These medications are important in preventing life-threatening complications like delirium tremens (DTs), especially in severe cases. Rahman A, Paul M., et al. 2024, titled “Delirium Tremens,” report that without professional treatment, delirium tremens are responsible for 37% of deaths during alcohol withdrawal.
  
• Clonidine (general withdrawal): Clonidine is a non-opioid medication used to manage general withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, high blood pressure, anxiety, and agitation. It is beneficial during opioid or stimulant withdrawal. It reduces the intensity of physical discomfort during detox, according to a study by Hughes PL et al. 1985, titled “Use of Clonidine in a Mixed-Drug Detoxification Regimen: Possibility of Masking of Clinical Signs of Sedative Withdrawal.”

Where to Treat Drug Withdrawal in Nevada?

To treat drug withdrawal in Nevada, individuals should seek licensed and accredited addiction centers that offer medical detox, inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, and therapy. The best facilities provide 24/7 monitoring and holistic care. The Nestled Recovery in Las Vegas offers comprehensive support, including medical detox and MAT programs, for those seeking safe and effective drug withdrawal services in Nevada.

Can You Prevent Drug Withdrawal?

Yes, drug withdrawal can be prevented by gradually tapering off the substance under medical supervision. This approach reduces the shock to the body’s nervous system, minimizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the risk of severe complications.

What Are the Risks of Untreated Drug Withdrawal

The risks of untreated drug withdrawal lead to serious health complications, including death. For example, alcohol withdrawal results in seizures or delirium tremens (DTs), Stimulant withdrawal causes psychosis or suicidal thoughts, and opioid withdrawal leads to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and intense cravings that increase the risk of relapse. Without medical supervision, these symptoms can escalate quickly, leading to life-threatening conditions

Can you die from drug withdrawal?

Yes, you can die from drug withdrawal. When discontinuing substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, individuals may experience severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and heart complications. Without proper medical intervention, these symptoms can lead to death. A study by Darke S. et al. (2016) titled “Yes, People Can Die from Opiate Withdrawal” highlights the risk of fatal outcomes during opiate withdrawal, emphasizing the necessity of medical supervision to ensure a safe recovery process.

Is Withdrawal a Sign of Drug Addiction?

Yes, withdrawal is a sign of drug addiction, but it’s important to distinguish between physical dependence and addiction. Dependence refers to the body’s adaptation to a drug, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. Addiction, however, involves compulsive use, cravings, and an inability to stop despite harmful consequences. While withdrawal signals dependence, drug addiction is a broader behavioral and psychological condition known as substance use disorder (SUD).