After stopping methamphetamine use, a person may develop dangerous withdrawal symptoms that can cause depression, psychosis and many other issues. Learn more about methamphetamine withdrawal and how to safely end use.

What is Meth Withdrawal?

Long-term use of methamphetamines, also known as “meth,” results in the development of physiological dependence on the drug. Chronic use of meth also results in increased drug tolerance, which makes a person need larger quantities to achieve the same effects. The body and brain adapt to increased drug use, affecting the reward system and its dopamine neurons. The absence of the reward (the drug) results in a negative emotional and physiological state.

The adverse effects that result from stopping methamphetamine use are referred to as withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms involve depression, anxiety and intense drug cravings, and they may be severe enough to cause a relapse. Treatment at a detox center helps manage these symptoms under medical supervision and reduces the chances of relapse.

Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

The severity and duration of methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms depend on the person’s drug use history and physiological characteristics. Some of the symptoms include:

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Meth Withdrawal Timeline

The duration and severity of methamphetamine withdrawal symptoms vary from individual to individual. Duration and intensity depend on a person’s drug use history, which includes the duration and frequency of drug use.  Physiological characteristics such as age and genetics may also influence the duration of withdrawal symptoms. The severity of symptoms may determine the chances of relapse.

Withdrawal symptoms begin within the first 24 hours after abstinence. The initial phase, called the acute phase, lasts for around seven days. Withdrawal symptoms are most severe during this phase. The acute phase is followed by a sub-acute phase that lasts for around two to three weeks. The symptoms still occur but are less intense during this phase.

Meth Detox

Detoxification is the first step toward meth addiction recovery, and it involves eliminating the drug from the body. Treatment at a medical detox facility involves 24-hour care provided by medical professionals. These facilities use medications and behavioral therapy to help patients cope with severe withdrawal symptoms.

Detoxification may also be undertaken at home, but it involves a higher risk of relapse. Treatment at a detox center only helps with the elimination of methamphetamine from the body and with withdrawal symptoms. Inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment is generally necessary after detox to help address the underlying issues that are responsible for drug use.

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Finding a Meth Detox Center

Choosing the right detox center for methamphetamine misuse may be difficult since many facilities offer similar treatments. Some of the following points must be considered while choosing a detox center:

  • Inpatient vs. outpatient detox: An inpatient detox provides 24-hour care in a drug-free and supportive environment. This is preferred for individuals with moderate to severe meth dependence. Outpatient detox, however, does not require residence at a detox center and allows the individual to continue with their job or education. This approach may expose the individual to triggers that can cause relapse. Outpatient detox is a better option for people who do not have a severe dependence on meth.
  • Cost: Inpatient clinics tend to be more expensive than outpatient clinics. It is also essential to ensure that treatment at the particular detox center is covered under the insurance plan.
  • Location: Choosing a detox center in the patient’s city of residence may allow family visits. This can help provide the support needed to cope with withdrawal symptoms.
  • Effectiveness: The treatment provided at the detox should be individualized since the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person. The treatment must be evidence-based and must be provided by trained, professional medical staff.