There Is a Way Out: How to Overcome Drug Withdrawal and Start Life Anew

Drug withdrawal, commonly referred to as withdrawal syndrome, is a set of symptoms that occur after stopping drug use. It is an extremely dangerous condition that poses a direct threat to life. In the absence of an overdose, withdrawal is often the main cause of death among drug users due to heart attacks, strokes, or respiratory failure.

Withdrawal symptoms can occur even after a short period of drug use. The intense physical and emotional suffering often pushes a person to use again, trapping them in a vicious cycle. The longer help is delayed, the harder it becomes to break free.

If you suspect a loved one is struggling with addiction, do not wait for withdrawal symptoms to begin — seek help from professionals. Specialists at IsraRehab Clinic are ready to provide support and answer all your questions.

Signs of Drug Withdrawal

Withdrawal is accompanied by a wide range of symptoms that vary depending on the type of substance used and the individual’s health condition. Typically, symptoms begin 8–48 hours after the last dose.

They can be divided into:

• Psychological symptoms: irritability, anxiety, depression
• Physical (somatic and neurological) symptoms: chills, body aches, sweating, and more

Common symptoms include:

• Irritability and aggression.
• Chills and fever.
• Runny nose, sneezing.
• Excessive sweating and salivation.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Muscle, joint, and body pain.
• Insomnia.
• Loss of appetite.
• Swelling.

Symptoms peak around days 3–4. Seizures, tachycardia, headaches, diarrhea, and blood pressure fluctuations are common. One of the most unbearable symptoms is widespread pain, caused by disrupted nerve signaling in the brain.

Withdrawal Symptoms by Type of Substance

Heroin Withdrawal

One of the most intense forms. Symptoms may begin as early as 9 hours after the last dose:

• Anxiety, fear
• Chills, runny nose, sweating
• Nausea, diarrhea, cramps
• Rapid weight loss
• Severe pain and itching

The acute phase lasts up to 5 days, with full recovery taking 2–3 weeks.

Learn more about heroin addiction treatment at IsraRehab →

Crack Cocaine Withdrawal

Crack is a form of unrefined cocaine and causes rapid addiction. Euphoria lasts just 5–10 minutes, followed by a deep crash. Symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Tremors and muscle spasms
• Paranoia, psychosis, hallucinations
• Insomnia and severe exhaustion

Withdrawal may last up to 2 weeks. A typical symptom is delusional parasitosis — the feeling of insects crawling under the skin.

Methadone Withdrawal

Methadone causes long-lasting and severe withdrawal symptoms that can persist for up to 4 weeks:

• Hand and leg tremors
• Intense leg pain
• Hypersensitivity
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts and depression

Methamphetamine Withdrawal

Begins 7–8 hours after the last use and can last up to 12 weeks.

Psychological symptoms:

• Depression and dysphoria
• Anxiety and aggression
• Paranoia, hallucinations
• Sleep disturbances

Physical symptoms:
Muscle pain, eye irritation, spasms, extreme hunger or complete loss of appetite.

Cocaine Withdrawal

Lasts up to 2 weeks and is characterized by:

• Paranoia and anxiety
• Confusion
• Fever
• Insomnia
• Suicidal ideation

Learn more about cocaine addiction treatment in Israel →

Amphetamine Withdrawal

Duration: several weeks to six months. Symptoms include:

• Swelling of limbs
• Nightmares
• Panic attacks
• Exhaustion and fatigue
• Impaired coordination
• Visual and auditory hallucinations

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Even prescription use can cause dependency. Symptoms may include:

• Panic attacks
• Poor concentration
• Confusion
• Seizures, tremors
• Depression, psychosis
• Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms may persist for years and often come in waves rather than gradually fading.

GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate) Withdrawal

This synthetic substance causes withdrawal symptoms comparable to alcohol or benzodiazepines:

• Seizures
• Psychosis
• Respiratory suppression
• Loss of consciousness

MDPV (Methylenedioxypyrovalerone) Withdrawal

Similar to methamphetamine withdrawal, but may also include:

• Severe pain
• Jaw muscle spasms (bruxism)
• Abdominal and kidney pain

Synthetic Cannabinoid (“Spice”) Withdrawal

These mixtures of herbs and synthetic cannabinoids are highly addictive and dangerous:

• Panic, aggression
• Schizophrenia-like symptoms
• Disorientation
• Memory and cognitive impairments

Even a single use can cause serious harm.

How to Manage Drug Withdrawal

Managing withdrawal alone is extremely dangerous and rarely successful. Severe symptoms may lead to:

• Stroke or heart attack
• Respiratory failure
• Acute liver or kidney failure
• Psychosis or suicide

Professional medical care includes:

• Monitoring vital signs
• Symptom relief
• Detoxification
• Metabolic restoration

Treatment may involve:

• Painkillers
• Sedatives and antidepressants
• Antipsychotics and mood stabilizers
• Liver protectants and vitamins

Rehabilitation at IsraRehab Clinic

Once the acute withdrawal phase is over, comprehensive rehabilitation is essential:

• Individual and group psychotherapy
• 12-Step recovery program
• Physical activity and holistic care

IsraRehab Clinic is located in a peaceful, natural setting far from urban triggers and temptations. The program includes:

• One-on-one and group counseling
• Nature walks, excursions, and exercise
• Comfortable rooms with full amenities

Do not try to face withdrawal alone — it could cost you your life. Call IsraRehab today. We’ll help you or your loved one begin the journey toward recovery — safely, effectively, and with dignity.