If you’re considering treatment for drug or alcohol use, one of your first questions is probably: How long does detox take? The answer depends on several factors—most importantly, the type of substance, the duration and severity of use, and your overall health.
At Solace Hills Detox, we know that uncertainty about the detox process can create anxiety. That’s why we take the time to educate each client about what to expect and how we’ll support them through every stage. In this blog, we’ll break down how long detox typically takes for different substances, what symptoms you might experience, and why medical support matters.
What Is Detox?
Detox is the first step in addiction recovery. It’s the process your body goes through as it clears drugs or alcohol from your system. Withdrawal symptoms may emerge during this time as your body adjusts to functioning without substances.
A medically supervised detox program like the one at Solace Hills Detox helps ensure that this process is safe, manageable, and sets the foundation for long-term recovery.
How Long Does Detox Take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline, but in general, detox takes anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on the substance. Some symptoms may last longer, especially with substances that affect the nervous system.
Here’s a breakdown of average detox timelines by substance:
Alcohol
Onset of symptoms: 6–12 hours after last drink
Peak symptoms: 24–72 hours
Duration: 5–7 days
Risks: Seizures, hallucinations, delirium tremens (DTs)
Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening if not properly managed. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), medical detox is highly recommended for individuals dependent on alcohol due to the risk of severe symptoms like seizures or DTs.
Opioids (Heroin, Oxycodone, Fentanyl)
Onset of symptoms: 8–24 hours after last use
Peak symptoms: 2–4 days
Duration: 5–10 days
Common symptoms: Body aches, nausea, sweating, anxiety
Opioid withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable but not typically life-threatening. Still, attempting to detox alone can lead to relapse and overdose. At Solace Hills Detox, we offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to reduce discomfort and support safety.
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Valium)
Onset of symptoms: 1–4 days
Peak symptoms: 4–7 days
Duration: 10–14 days or longer
Risks: Seizures, panic attacks, insomnia
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is one of the most dangerous and should never be attempted at home. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends slow tapering under medical supervision for safety and effectiveness.
Stimulants (Cocaine, Methamphetamine)
Onset of symptoms: 12–24 hours
Peak symptoms: 2–4 days
Duration: 5–7 days
Symptoms: Depression, fatigue, sleep disturbances, cravings
While stimulant withdrawal typically isn’t physically dangerous, it can lead to severe emotional distress and suicidal thoughts. Mental health support during detox is essential.
Cannabis
Onset of symptoms: 24–72 hours
Peak symptoms: 4–7 days
Duration: 1–2 weeks (mild)
Symptoms: Irritability, insomnia, cravings, anxiety
Detoxing from cannabis may not be as physically intense as other substances, but it still creates emotional and cognitive challenges. Our team helps ease the discomfort and provide emotional regulation strategies.
Factors That Influence Detox Duration
Now that we’ve answered “how long does detox take” by substance, it’s important to understand that these timelines can vary. Factors that affect detox length include:
How long you’ve been using
How much and how often you used
Whether you’ve detoxed before
Your overall physical and mental health
Polysubstance use (more than one drug)
Metabolism, age, and body composition
At Solace Hills Detox, we tailor each client’s detox plan based on a thorough medical and psychological assessment to ensure safety and comfort.
What Happens After Detox?
Detox is just the beginning of recovery—not the end. Once your body is stable, we help you transition into the next phase of treatment, which may include:
Inpatient or residential rehab
Outpatient treatment or therapy
Dual diagnosis support for mental health
Sober living placement
Ongoing relapse prevention planning
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), long-term recovery requires continued care after detox. Our team helps make that next step as seamless as possible.
Why Medical Detox Matters
Trying to detox at home may seem convenient, but it can be dangerous—and in some cases, life-threatening. At Solace Hills Detox, we provide:
24/7 medical monitoring
Medication-assisted symptom relief
Crisis intervention and emotional support
Nutritional care and hydration
Private rooms in a calming, clinical environment
We also treat the emotional symptoms that often emerge during detox, including anxiety, depression, and trauma responses.
Start Detox Safely, Stay on the Path to Recovery
So, how long does detox take? The answer varies—but one thing is clear: with the right medical support, it can be safer, smoother, and more successful.
If you or someone you love is ready to break free from substance use, Solace Hills Detox offers personalized care to help you take the first step with confidence.
Call us today for a confidential consultation or visit www.solacehillsdetox.com to learn more.