Detoxing from methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, is a challenging but essential first step on the road to recovery. Meth is a highly addictive stimulant that impacts the central nervous system, leading to devastating physical, mental, and emotional health effects. For those who struggle with meth addiction, detoxification is the crucial starting point to reclaiming their lives.
If you or a loved one is wondering how long does it take to detox from meth, or what to expect during the process, this guide will provide clarity. We’ll cover the detox process, which usually takes from 7-10 days, the timeline for withdrawal symptoms, available treatment options, and the importance of aftercare in preventing relapse.
Understanding the Challenge of Meth Detox
Meth detox is the process by which the body eliminates methamphetamine and adjusts to functioning without it. Methamphetamine is an incredibly powerful and addictive drug, and leads to several short-term effects including:1
- Euphoria and increased alertness and energy
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Rapid heart rate
- Heart palpitations
- Stroke
- Death
The same reason meth causes powerful effects on the body is also what makes it difficult to quit and detox from. Meth affects the central nervous system and causes an intense release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in pleasure and motivation.2 This surge in dopamine creates the intense euphoria associated with meth use.
How Long Does It Take to Detox From Meth? Timeline and Common Meth Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms from meth can vary in intensity and duration based on factors like the frequency of use, the dose, and the overall health of the individual. Research shows there are two phases of meth detox, with distinct timelines and symptoms. These include the following.
Acute Phase of Meth Withdrawal
The acute phase of meth withdrawal is between the last use to about 1 week after last use.3 Research shows that the severity of withdrawal symptoms peaked at 24 hours after last use but then gradually dwindled down.
The acute phase of amphetamine withdrawal include symptoms such as:
- Increased sleeping
- Increased eating
- Depression-related symptoms
- Anxiety
- Cravings
Following the acute withdrawal phase, most withdrawal symptoms remained stable and at low levels until about 2 weeks after stopping meth use. Afterward, the second phase of withdrawal starts, known as the subacute phase.
Subacute Phase of Withdrawal
After the initial phase of withdrawal, you might have lingering withdrawal symptoms, which can last for weeks or months. These include symptoms such as:4
- Feeling depressed or anxious
- Paranoid
- Low motivation
- Low energy
- Intense meth cravings
While some people might not experience these symptoms, others may find them to be intense and difficult to manage.
Factors That Influence Meth Detox Timeline
So how long does it take to detox from meth? This depends on several factors, including:
- Duration of Use: Chronic, long-term use often results in a longer detox process.
- Amount Consumed: Higher doses of meth increase withdrawal severity and duration.
- Individual Health: Physical and mental health conditions can affect how the body handles detoxification.
- Polydrug Use: Using meth alongside other substances, like alcohol or opioids, can complicate detox.
Even if you or a loved one has been using meth for a short period, it’s important to seek professional help for detox. Attempting to detox on your own can be dangerous and increase the risk of relapse.
Treatment Options for Meth Detox
Detoxing from meth at home can be extremely difficult and, in some cases, risky due to complications. Seeking professional help is highly recommended.
Medical Detox
Medical detox programs provide a safe and supervised environment where trained professionals monitor withdrawal symptoms and provide treatment to ease discomfort. Detox facilities may offer:
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms, if needed.
- Support for co-occurring health issues.
- A structured environment that helps reduce the risk of relapse during the vulnerable detox phase.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment plays a critical role during and after the detox process. Being enrolled in inpatient treatment gives you access to different therapies that can help prevent relapse. These include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and manage triggers that lead to substance use.
- Motivational Interviewing: Builds confidence and motivation to stick with recovery.
- Individual and Group Counseling: Provides emotional support and practical strategies for staying clean.
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Addresses co-occurring mental health disorders alongside addiction.
- 12-Step Programs: Provides a supportive community and structured program for recovery.
In addition to these therapies, inpatient treatment also offers a safe and structured environment that removes individuals from the triggers and temptations of their daily lives. This can be especially important for those with severe meth addiction or those who have relapsed multiple times.
Discover the Freedom of Sobriety With SEE Purpose
Detoxing from meth may be daunting, but it is one of the most impactful choices anyone can make for their health and well-being. The process is not always easy, but with the right treatments, support systems, and commitment to recovery, it is entirely possible to overcome meth addiction and rebuild a fulfilling life.
At SEE Purpose, our inpatient addiction treatment in Bloomington, IN, can help individuals struggling with meth addiction find the freedom of sobriety and discover their purpose. Our programs include medical detox, inpatient treatment, and veterans addiction treatment to help individuals find the right path towards recovery and long-term sobriety. Call us today to learn more about our personalized and evidence-based approach to meth addiction treatment.
FAQs about Meth Detox
What happens during meth detox?
During meth detox, the body begins to adjust to the absence of methamphetamine. This process may involve physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms that can vary in severity. Medical professionals may use medications and therapeutic support to help individuals manage symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, cravings, and sleep disturbances.
How long does meth detox take?
The length of meth detox varies depending on factors such as the individual’s level of meth use, physical health, and personal circumstances. Generally, acute withdrawal symptoms can last for about 7–10 days, but some effects, such as fatigue or mood swings, might persist for weeks or even months.
Is meth detox dangerous?
Meth detox can be challenging and, in some cases, dangerous without proper supervision. Psychological effects, such as depression or anxiety, may occur, and cravings can lead to a high risk of relapse. Seeking professional, medically supervised detox ensures the safety and well-being of the individual during this critical process.
Can medications help during meth detox?
While there are no specific medications approved to treat methamphetamine withdrawal, medical professionals may prescribe medications to address certain symptoms.5 These might include antidepressants for depression or anti-anxiety medications to reduce stress. Your treatment team will work with you to develop a treatment plan with or without medication.
What comes after meth detox?
After meth detox, continuing treatment is essential to maintain sobriety and address the underlying causes of addiction. This often includes inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs, therapy, counseling, and peer support groups to develop coping skills and maintain recovery over the long term.
How can I get started with meth detox?
If you or a loved one is ready to begin meth detox, reaching out to a facility that specializes in addiction treatment is a crucial first step. At SEE Purpose, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help individuals begin their recovery journey in a safe and supportive environment. Contact us today to learn more about our meth detox and addiction treatment programs in Bloomington, IN.
References
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024, November). Methamphetamine. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/methamphetamine
- Hedges, D. M., Obray, J. D., Yorgason, J. T., Jang, E. Y., Weerasekara, V. K., Uys, J. D., Bellinger, F. P., & Steffensen, S. C. (2017). Methamphetamine Induces Dopamine Release in the Nucleus Accumbens Through a Sigma Receptor-Mediated Pathway. Neuropsychopharmacology, 43(6), 1405–1414. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2017.291
- McGregor, C., Srisurapanont, M., Jittiwutikarn, J., Laobhripatr, S., Wongtan, T., & White, J. M. (2005). The nature, time course and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal. Addiction, 100(9), 1320–1329. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2005.01160.x
- Methamphetamine: What To Expect When Someone Quits. (2022, October 3). Myhealth.alberta.ca. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Methamphetamine-what-to-expect-when-someone-quits.aspx
- Acheson, L. S., Williams, B. H., Farrell, M., McKetin, R., Ezard, N., & Siefried, K. J. (2022). Pharmacological treatment for methamphetamine withdrawal: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials. Drug and Alcohol Review, 42(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13511
