Meth Withdrawal Timeline: How Long Does it Take to Detox From Meth?

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Methamphetamine (meth) is a potent, highly-addictive stimulant drug. This illicit drug can cause serious short and long-term consequences. People who abuse meth may quickly develop an addiction to it. 

It can be very challenging to quit using methamphetamine. People struggling with addiction may experience intense withdrawal symptoms during detox. This can keep people from completing detox and working toward recovery. 

This article will explore how long it takes to detox from meth. You will learn:

• Common meth withdrawal symptoms
• How long methamphetamine detox may last
• What to expect during meth detox treatment
• Where to find detox, treatment, and recovery support

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]If you or a loved one struggles with meth addiction, you are not alone. Find treatment and support at Moving Mountains Recovery. Contact our intake team to learn about methamphetamine withdrawal treatment options or to schedule an appointment. 

What is Meth?

Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful, illegal stimulant drug. People make this dangerous drug using household chemicals and over-the-counter medications. 

Meth is typically a powder or a crystal-like solid substance. Meth users typically inject, snort, or smoke it. Soon after reaching the bloodstream, meth stimulates central nervous system (CNS) activity, causing side effects that include:

• Increased energy and alertness
• Quicker breathing
• Elevated body temperature
• Increased blood pressure
• Dilated pupils

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]People who use meth may develop an addiction to it. Long-term complications of meth abuse include:

• Anxiety
• Memory problems
• Aggression
• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Extreme weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Confusion
• Changes in sleep patterns (typically insomnia)

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Using meth may change the way a person’s body and brain function. These changes can make it nearly impossible to stop using meth without professional help. 

Most people with meth addiction require intensive medical detox treatment 24 hours a day to detox from this dangerous drug safely. 

Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

People with meth addiction who attempt to stop may experience intense, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Common acute symptoms of meth withdrawal include:

• Chills
• Difficulty with focus
• Low energy
• Increased appetite
• A period of insomnia followed by excessive sleep
• Intense cravings
• Depression with suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty feeling pleasure
• Fatigue
• Extreme irritability

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Some people experience long-lasting withdrawal symptoms. This is called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). People with PAWS may have symptoms for several months or more. Symptoms of PAWS include:

• Depression
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Mood swings
• Psychosis
• Excessive sleeping
• Cravings

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]People who try to detox alone are at risk of relapse. Medical and emotional support is essential during detox to reduce the risk of relapse. 

How Long Does Meth Withdrawal Last?

People have different experiences with meth withdrawal, depending on several factors. Some of the factors that affect the severity and length of withdrawal include:

• The severity of a person’s addiction
• How much a person takes
• The way people ingest meth
• General health
• Age
• Weight and body composition
• Co-occurring mental health conditions

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]While the length of withdrawal can vary from person to person, symptoms typically follow a pattern. Here is an overview of the meth withdrawal timeline. 

24hours

Withdrawal symptoms may start within the first 24 hours after a person’s last dose. Common early symptoms include:

• Chills
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Intense cravings

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]People are at risk of a relapse during this stage. The support of a substance abuse treatment program can help people stay on track.

One week

Withdrawal symptoms worsen during the first week of a meth detox. People are at an increased risk of relapse during this stage because of intense cravings and other symptoms. People must have intensive treatment and support to stay on track. 

Two weeks

Symptoms may begin to improve after the first whole week of meth detox. However, cravings and other symptoms may remain, putting people’s recoveries at risk. Ongoing support is critical to help people work toward long-term recovery. 

Three weeks and beyond

Most people will notice a significant improvement in how they feel toward the end of the third week of detox. People who develop PAWS may require ongoing support to remain committed to recovery and avoid relapse. 

Knowing what to expect during meth detox can help you make informed choices about your care. Many treatment facilities offer multiple levels of care to help people manage detox safely and move forward. Contact Moving Mountains Recovery to learn more about the holistic detox and treatment programs we offer. 

Methamphetamine Detox Treatment

Methamphetamine detox can be tough on a person’s body and mind. Moving Mountains Recovery offers holistic detox and treatment programs to help people navigate each stage of their recoveries. 

A holistic, medically-supported detox program may include:

• Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual therapy and support groups
• Education about addiction, recovery, and relapse prevention
• Holistic therapies, like outdoor recreation, nutrition support, creative expression, and nature therapy

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]A detox program can provide essential support for a person’s mind and body as they detox from meth. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of meth abuse or addiction. 

Find Treatment Now

If you or a loved one are one of the millions in the United States struggling with substance use disorder, help is available. Contact Moving Mountains Recovery to learn about our holistic detox and treatment programs. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment. [/vc_column_text][vc_tta_accordion section_title_tag=”p” gap=”2″ c_icon=”chevron” active_section=”0″][vc_tta_section title=”References:” tab_id=”1741720085756-07061c93-2345″][vc_column_text css=””]

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Stimulants
2. Science Direct: Factors associated with methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms among people who inject drugs
3. National Institute of Health (NIH): The nature, time course and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal
4. Wiley Online Library: Pharmacological treatment for methamphetamine withdrawal: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

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