Reference

Withdrawal timelines by substance: A comparison chart

Published November 28, 2024 · 7 min read · Updated April 2026

Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.

Withdrawal timelines vary dramatically by substance. This comparison helps patients and families know what to expect.

Alcohol

Onset: 6-12 hours. Peak: 24-72 hours. Duration: 5-7 days. Danger level: HIGH (seizures, DTs possible). Medical detox recommended.

Onset: 8-12 hours. Peak: 36-72 hours. Duration: 5-7 days. Danger level: LOW (uncomfortable but rarely life-threatening). MAT recommended.

Onset: 24-36 hours. Peak: days 3-5. Duration: 2-3 weeks. Danger level: LOW. Medical supervision recommended.

Onset: 12-24 hours. Peak: days 2-4. Duration: 2-4 weeks (protracted months). Danger level: HIGH (seizures possible). Medical taper required.

Onset: 2-7 days. Peak: week 2. Duration: 2-8 weeks. Danger level: HIGH. Medical taper required.

Onset: hours. Peak: days 1-3. Duration: 1-2 weeks (depression may persist months). Danger level: LOW physically but HIGH depression/suicide risk.

Onset: 1-3 days. Peak: days 3-7. Duration: 1-3 weeks. Danger level: LOW. Irritability, insomnia, decreased appetite.

Authoritative sources

This article references guidelines from: SAMHSA · NIDA · ASAM

Which withdrawal is most dangerous?

Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause fatal seizures. These require medical supervision.

Which withdrawal is longest?

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can persist for weeks to months. Methadone withdrawal lasts 2-3 weeks. Most others resolve within 1-2 weeks.

Does every substance cause withdrawal?

Most produce some withdrawal symptoms with chronic use. Severity varies dramatically by substance class.

Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.