Withdrawal Process: What Happens When You Stop a Drug
Stopping a drug or cutting a dose can feel like your body is fighting back. That fight is the withdrawal process: a set of physical and mental symptoms that show up when the brain and body adjust to having less of a substance than they’re used to. It can be mild and short-lived, or it can be intense and dangerous—depending on the drug, dose, and how long you used it.
Common symptoms and typical timelines
Expect different timelines for different drugs. Opioid withdrawal often starts within 6–24 hours for short-acting opioids, peaking around 48–72 hours and easing over a week or more. Alcohol withdrawal can begin within 6–48 hours and sometimes leads to seizures or delirium tremens in the first few days—these are medical emergencies. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can drag on for weeks or months with anxiety, insomnia, and brain-fog. Some antidepressants cause discontinuation symptoms—dizziness, flu-like feelings, and mood shifts—within days of stopping. Common signs across many withdrawals include sweating, nausea, tremor, upset stomach, anxiety, insomnia, and intense cravings.
How to manage withdrawal safely
First rule: don’t try risky solo strategies. Talk to a doctor before stopping or changing doses. Many drugs need a gradual taper instead of quitting cold turkey. For opioid dependence, medication-assisted treatments like buprenorphine or methadone reduce cravings and lower risk. For alcohol, medically supervised detox often uses benzodiazepines and vitamin support (like thiamine) to prevent complications. If withdrawal could be severe, an inpatient or outpatient medical program is safer than doing it alone.
Practical at-home steps that help when symptoms are mild and a clinician has cleared you: stay hydrated, rest, eat small regular meals, and use over-the-counter pain relievers for aches if a clinician approves. Short walks and light stretching can reduce anxiety. Track symptoms so your doctor can adjust the plan. Avoid mixing alcohol or other drugs during withdrawal—mixing raises danger.
Mental health matters. Anxiety, depression, and cravings are part of the process. Reach out to a therapist, counselor, or peer support group. Apps and telehealth can help with daily check-ins and coping tools. Family support also makes a big difference.
Know the red flags: seizures, confusion, fainting, trouble breathing, or hallucinations require immediate medical attention. If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, call emergency services or go to the nearest medical facility.
Want more reading? Our site has helpful pieces like “Opioid Addiction and the Brain” and “Alcohol and Medication: Understanding Electrolyte Imbalance and Health Risks.” Those explain why withdrawal feels so intense and what clinicians do to reduce harm. If you’re planning a taper or facing withdrawal, contact a healthcare provider to make a safe plan tailored to you.
, Jun, 1 2023
I recently came across some useful tips on how to safely wean off Lansoprazole, a medication commonly used to treat acid reflux and stomach ulcers. First, it's important to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication routine. They may suggest gradually decreasing your dosage over a few weeks to avoid any withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, incorporating lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and eating smaller meals, can help manage symptoms naturally. Lastly, over-the-counter antacids may provide temporary relief during the weaning process, but remember to always follow your doctor's advice for the best results.
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