Alcohol detox duration can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the severity of the alcohol dependency, the individual’s overall health,
and their drinking history. Typically, the acute phase of withdrawal, where the most severe symptoms occur, lasts anywhere from a few days to around a week. 1.
Early Withdrawal: This phase may start within hours after the last drink and may last a few days. Symptoms can include anxiety, shaking, nausea, and
insomnia. This is the period when risk for more serious issues like seizures can also occur. - Peak Withdrawal: Symptoms typically peak around 24 to 72
hours after the last drink. During this time, symptoms might include increased heart rate, sweating, tremors, fever, and agitation.
- Late Withdrawal:
From about 5 days onward, most physical symptoms begin to improve. However, psychological symptoms and cravings can persist. This period can vary considerably
and may extend from a week up to a month. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) such as mood swings, sleep disturbances, and reduced energy levels can continue
for months after stopping alcohol use. It is important for individuals undergoing detox to seek medical supervision due to potential complications such as
delirium tremens (DTs), a potentially fatal condition. Besides the physical timeline, the complete process of detoxification and subsequent management,
including therapy and support to prevent relapse, is crucial for effective recovery from alcohol dependency.
