Detox is a crucial first step in the addiction recovery process. The duration of detox varies depending on the type of substance used, the individual’s overall health, and the severity of the addiction. Understanding how long detox takes can help individuals and their loved ones prepare for the process and seek the right level of care.
At Evoke Wellness at Cohasset, our medical detox programs in Massachusetts provide a safe and structured environment where individuals can undergo detox with 24/7 medical supervision. In this guide, we’ll explore the detox timeline for different substances, the factors that affect detox duration, and what happens after detox to support long-term recovery.
Why Is Detox Necessary?
Detoxification (detox) is the process of clearing harmful substances from the body. When someone is physically dependent on drugs or alcohol, their body adjusts to the presence of the substance. Suddenly stopping can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may range from mild discomfort to severe and life-threatening complications.
Undergoing detox in a medical setting ensures that withdrawal symptoms are managed safely and that individuals receive medical and emotional support throughout the process. Medical detox programs in Massachusetts provide:
- Medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
- Medical monitoring to prevent severe complications.
- Emotional and psychological support to help individuals cope with cravings and stress.
Factors That Influence Detox Duration
The length of time detox takes is different for everyone. Several factors impact how long it takes for the body to rid itself of a substance and adjust to functioning without it. These factors include:
1. Type of Substance Used
Some substances leave the body faster than others. Short-acting drugs like heroin and alcohol have a quicker detox period, while longer-acting substances like benzodiazepines can take weeks to fully detox.
2. Frequency and Duration of Use
Individuals who have used a substance for several years or in large amounts may take longer to detox than those who have a shorter history of use.
3. Polysubstance Use
Using multiple substances at the same time (e.g., alcohol and opioids) can make detox more complicated, sometimes requiring a longer and more carefully monitored detox process.
4. Individual Metabolism and Health Status
Each person’s body processes substances at a different rate. Age, liver function, hydration, and overall health play a role in how quickly the body clears toxins.
5. Presence of Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders
Individuals with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD may experience a longer and more challenging detox process, requiring additional emotional and medical support.
Detox Timelines for Different Substances
The detox timeline varies depending on the drug used. Below is an overview of what to expect during detox for some of the most commonly abused substances.
Alcohol Detox Timeline
Alcohol withdrawal can be severe and even life-threatening, making medical detox programs in Massachusetts essential for safety.
- 6–12 hours: Mild symptoms appear, including headaches, nausea, anxiety, and insomnia.
- 24–48 hours: More severe symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and tremors begin.
- 48–72 hours: Delirium tremens (DTs) may occur in severe cases, leading to confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and high blood pressure.
- 3–7 days: Most withdrawal symptoms subside, but some individuals may experience lingering anxiety and sleep disturbances.
Opioid Detox Timeline (Heroin, Prescription Painkillers, Fentanyl)
Opioid withdrawal is uncomfortable but not usually life-threatening. Medications such as buprenorphine or methadone can help ease symptoms.
- 8–24 hours: Early withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches, restlessness, sweating, and anxiety begin.
- 24–72 hours: Symptoms peak, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, intense cravings, and chills.
- 4–10 days: Physical symptoms subside, though psychological withdrawal may continue for weeks.
Benzodiazepine Detox Timeline (Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin)
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous and requires gradual tapering under medical supervision.
- 1–4 days: Anxiety, irritability, and mild tremors begin.
- 5–14 days: Peak symptoms include panic attacks, hallucinations, and, in severe cases, seizures.
- 2+ weeks: Symptoms improve, but some individuals may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) lasting for months.
Cocaine and Methamphetamine Detox Timeline
Stimulant withdrawal is mainly psychological, though fatigue and depression can be severe.
- 24–48 hours: The “crash” phase begins with exhaustion, mood swings, and cravings.
- 3–7 days: Depression, irritability, and sleep disturbances occur.
- 1–3 weeks: Symptoms improve, but cravings and mood instability may persist.
Marijuana Detox Timeline
Chronic marijuana users can experience withdrawal, though symptoms are mild compared to other substances.
- 1–3 days: Sleep disturbances, irritability, and mood swings start.
- 4–10 days: Symptoms peak, including cravings and appetite changes.
- 2–3 weeks: Most symptoms resolve, though mild anxiety may linger.
What Happens After Detox?
Detox is only the first step in recovery. Once the body is free from substances, the real work of addiction treatment begins. Without follow-up care, individuals are at a high risk of relapse.
After completing detox in Massachusetts, individuals should transition into an addiction treatment program, which may include:
- Inpatient or Residential Treatment – A structured program providing therapy, counseling, and medical care.
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) – A step down from inpatient care with continued therapy during the day.
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) – Therapy several times per week while integrating back into daily life.
- Mental Health Treatment – Addressing co-occurring disorders to support emotional stability.
- Relapse Prevention Planning – Developing coping strategies and support networks.
Why Choose Evoke Wellness at Cohasset for Detox?
Choosing the right detox facility is essential for a safe and successful recovery. At Evoke Wellness at Cohasset, we provide comprehensive medical detox programs in Massachusetts designed to help individuals navigate the withdrawal process safely and comfortably. Our team of experienced medical professionals and addiction specialists offers compassionate, evidence-based care to ensure that each person receives the support they need.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- 24/7 Medical Supervision: Our detox facility provides round-the-clock medical care to monitor withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): We offer FDA-approved medications to help ease withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and promote long-term recovery.
- Personalized Detox Plans: Every individual experiences detox differently, which is why we create customized treatment plans based on their unique needs, health history, and substance use.
- Comfortable, Safe Environment: Our state-of-the-art facility offers a peaceful setting where individuals can focus on healing without outside distractions.
- Dual Diagnosis Support: Many individuals struggling with addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Our integrated approach ensures that both addiction and mental health issues are addressed.
- Transition to Long-Term Treatment: Detox is just the first step. We provide seamless referrals to residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and therapy services to support lasting sobriety.
- Family Involvement and Education: Addiction affects the entire family. We offer resources and guidance to help loved ones understand the recovery process and provide meaningful support.
At Evoke Wellness at Cohasset, we are dedicated to helping individuals break free from addiction in a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment.
Conclusion
The detox process is a crucial first step on the path to sobriety, but it can also be one of the most challenging phases of recovery. Understanding how long detox takes, what to expect, and where to seek professional help can make the journey smoother and more manageable.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, professional detox in a medical detox program in Massachusetts can provide the safety, medical supervision, and emotional support needed to begin the recovery process. Evoke Wellness at Cohasset is here to guide you through every stage of detox and beyond, ensuring you receive the care necessary to build a strong foundation for a substance-free life.
Don’t wait to take control of your future. Call 866-931-6429 today to speak with our team and start your journey toward lasting recovery.
