Detoxification: 4 Substances & What to Expect

#1: Methamphetamine detox

According to the Center for Substance Abuse Research, methamphetamine withdrawal may lead to a number of psychological risk factors that make the process of detoxification both difficult and dangerous.

Common symptoms include anxiety, paranoia, insomnia, depression, hallucinations, irritability, hostility, fatigue, and cravings.

#2: Alcohol detox

The alcohol detox timeline or level of intensity needed for effective alcohol withdrawal management will depend on the severity of the addiction, the magnitude of alcohol dependence, and the risk of experiencing a complicated withdrawal.

Common Symptoms (Severe): Hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), diaphoresis (sweating), tachycardia (rapid heartbeat). Increased systolic blood pressure. Tachypnea (rapid, shallow breathing), confusion, Fever, body tremors, agitation, hallucinations, and seizures.

#3: Cocaine detox

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms are often flu-like in nature, and while not life-threatening as such, can sometimes lead to serious health issues that demand immediate medical intervention. 

Common symptoms: Chills, fatigue, body ache, shakiness, extreme mood swings, anxiety, depression, cravings, and suicidal thoughts.

#4: Hallucinogens

There is no standard timeline for how long withdrawal from hallucinogens lasts. Drug detox typically lasts four to seven days on average.

Common symptoms: Cravings, anxiety, depression, dysphoria, mood swings, nightmares, confusion, hallucinations, paranoia, sweating, headache, shaking, increased body temperature, and seizures.

Attempting to detox at home is harmful and should be avoided at all costs since the consequences of detoxing at home without trained medical professionals could be dire.