Opioid Withdrawal Timeline & Symptoms
What opioid withdrawal looks like — and how medical detox makes it bearable.
Symptoms
Opioid withdrawal causes muscle aches, sweating, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose, yawning, insomnia, anxiety, and strong cravings.
Timeline
- 8–24 hours after last use: Early symptoms for short-acting opioids.
- 1–3 days: Peak withdrawal.
- Day 4–7: Physical symptoms ease.
- Week 2+: Post-acute symptoms can persist (low mood, sleep, cravings).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can opioid withdrawal kill you?
Not usually in a healthy person, but severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea can become medically dangerous. Medical detox manages these risks.