How Long Does At-Home Detox Take? A Complete Guide

When people begin exploring at-home detox, one of the first questions that naturally comes up is: how long does it take? The answer matters for many reasons. Families often need to plan time off work or rearrange schedules. Clients themselves want to know how long they’ll be uncomfortable, how soon they’ll feel relief, and when they can expect to begin moving forward. The timeline also carries an emotional weight — detox is often viewed as the hardest stage of early recovery, and uncertainty can create unnecessary fear or hesitation.

Understanding what to expect from the process helps ease that fear. By knowing the typical length of detox, the stages involved, and the factors that make each person’s timeline unique, clients and families can prepare both emotionally and physically. This preparation makes the process feel less overwhelming and helps reinforce the confidence needed to take the first step.

The reality is that detox length is not the same for everyone. It depends on several key variables: the substance or substances involved, the severity and duration of use, the individual’s overall health and history, and the level of medical support provided during the process. With professional oversight, many of the most difficult symptoms can be managed, which not only improves safety but also makes the detox period feel shorter and more tolerable.

On average, most at-home detox programs last between three and seven days, though certain situations — especially involving benzodiazepines or complex medical histories — may require a longer period of stabilization. Rather than thinking of detox as a fixed number of days, it is more accurate to see it as a phased process with a clear beginning, middle, and transition point into aftercare.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the major factors that influence detox length, outline what each stage typically looks like, and explain how proper preparation can set you up not just to complete detox safely, but also to continue into lasting recovery with momentum.

Key Factors That Influence At- Home Detox Length

1. The Substance Involved

The type of substance being used is the single most important factor in determining how long detox will take. Each drug or alcohol type has its own withdrawal timeline, symptoms, and risks. Some withdrawals move relatively quickly, while others require extended monitoring or a carefully managed taper.

Alcohol
Withdrawal from alcohol typically begins within 6–12 hours of the last drink. Early symptoms may include tremors, anxiety, and sweating. Symptoms usually peak between 24–72 hours, which is the period when complications like seizures or delirium tremens (DTs) can develop. While many people stabilize within 5–7 days, severe alcohol dependence may require longer monitoring to ensure safety.

Opioids (heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl, prescription painkillers)
Opioid withdrawal usually starts within 8–24 hours after the last dose. Early symptoms feel flu-like, with body aches, yawning, runny nose, and restlessness. The withdrawal phase typically peaks around days 2–4, when cravings, gastrointestinal upset, and muscle pain are strongest. Most people notice symptoms tapering by day 7–10, though cravings may persist longer.

Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin)
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is often more unpredictable and potentially dangerous than other substances. Symptoms may begin 1–4 days after the last dose, depending on the half-life of the drug, and can last for weeks or even months if not properly managed. Common symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, and irritability, but seizures are the greatest risk. Because of this, benzo detox almost always requires careful tapering under physician oversight rather than abrupt discontinuation.

Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription stimulants like Adderall)
Stimulant withdrawal is generally less dangerous medically but can be extremely difficult emotionally. Symptoms usually begin within 24 hours of the last use and are characterized by fatigue, sleep disruption, depression, and strong cravings. The acute phase often lasts 5–10 days, but psychological symptoms such as depression and craving may linger for weeks.

Kratom and polysubstance use
Kratom withdrawal can resemble a mix of opioid and stimulant withdrawal, with symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, muscle aches, and cravings. Symptoms typically last 5–10 days. Polysubstance use (using more than one drug at a time, such as alcohol plus benzodiazepines or opioids plus stimulants) creates a more complex detox, as symptoms overlap and timelines vary. These cases often require longer monitoring and more flexible medical protocols.

Bottom line:
The substance involved shapes both the length and complexity of detox. Some withdrawals are short but intense, while others stretch out over weeks. Understanding the specific timeline for your situation helps set realistic expectations and reinforces the importance of medical oversight during at-home detox.

2. Duration and Intensity of Use

The length and severity of detox are directly influenced by how much of a substance was used and for how long. Someone who has been drinking heavily for decades or using high doses of opioids daily will almost always face a longer and more difficult withdrawal compared to someone with a shorter or less intense history.

• Long-term, heavy use often leads to physical dependence, meaning the body has fully adapted to functioning with the substance. When that substance is removed, the system has a harder time recalibrating, which extends the detox timeline.

• Short-term or lighter use typically results in shorter detox periods and less severe symptoms, though withdrawal can still be uncomfortable and dangerous depending on the drug.

The “dose and duration” factor is why detox is so individualized. Even with the same substance, two people can experience very different withdrawal timelines based on their history.

3. Individual Biology

Each person’s body responds differently to withdrawal. Factors such as age, metabolism, overall health, and co-occurring mental health conditions all play a role in how long detox lasts and how intense it feels.

• Age: Older adults may metabolize substances more slowly and face additional health complications, which can extend recovery time.

• Overall health: Chronic illnesses such as liver disease, diabetes, or cardiovascular conditions can make detox more complex and lengthen the stabilization period.

• Metabolism: Faster metabolisms may clear substances more quickly, while slower metabolisms may prolong symptoms.

• Mental health conditions: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other co-occurring disorders can intensify withdrawal symptoms and make recovery feel longer, even if the physical symptoms have subsided.

This is why detox timelines cannot be predicted with absolute precision. The same program that takes five days for one person might require seven or more for another, depending on individual biology.

4. Medical Support and Environment

The level of professional support available during detox makes a significant difference — not just in safety, but in how long the process feels.

• With medical oversight: Symptoms are monitored continuously, and medications can be adjusted in real time to ease discomfort. This makes detox safer and can reduce the perceived length of withdrawal by minimizing suffering and complications.

• Without medical oversight: Attempting withdrawal alone often feels much longer and more overwhelming. Unmanaged symptoms can drag out recovery, increase the risk of relapse, and in some cases become life-threatening.

• Environment matters: A calm, supportive home environment contributes to shorter, smoother detox experiences. A chaotic or stressful setting can intensify symptoms and slow progress.

Simply put, the combination of professional monitoring and a stable environment can make a three-to-seven-day detox feel manageable, while trying to do it alone can feel endless and unsafe.

The Stages of At-Home Detox

Stage 1: Pre-Detox Preparation (1–2 Days)

Detox doesn’t officially begin the moment you stop using substances. A safe and effective at-home detox starts with a preparation phase, usually lasting one to two days. This stage sets the foundation for everything that follows. Without proper planning, detox can feel chaotic and risky. With preparation, it becomes a structured and supported process.

Here’s what happens during this phase:

• Confidential medical consultation and screening: A licensed provider reviews your substance use history, medical conditions, current medications, and overall health. This assessment determines whether you are a good candidate for at-home detox or if a higher level of care is needed. It also shapes the personalized plan that will guide your care.

• Coordination of medications and supplies: Before detox begins, all necessary medications and monitoring equipment are secured. This might include withdrawal management medications, IV fluids if appropriate, blood pressure monitors, and safety supplies. Having everything in place ahead of time prevents delays once symptoms start.

• Preparing the home environment for recovery: The detox team ensures that the space is safe, quiet, and conducive to healing. This may involve creating a designated recovery area, limiting distractions, and making sure emergency access is available if needed. The goal is to turn your home into a supportive recovery setting.

• Family or support system orientation: If loved ones will be involved, they are given guidance on what to expect and how to support without interfering in medical care. Families often feel anxious about detox, and orientation helps set expectations while giving them confidence that a professional team will handle the clinical side.

This stage is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most important. By the time detox actually begins, every detail has already been thought through. The right staff are scheduled, the right medications are on hand, and everyone in the home understands their role. This preparation minimizes risks, reduces stress, and creates a smoother experience when the withdrawal process starts.

Stage 2: Acute Withdrawal (3–7 Days)

The acute withdrawal phase is the part of detox most people imagine when they think of “going through withdrawal.” It is the most challenging stage physically and emotionally, but with proper medical oversight it is also the most closely managed. This stage usually lasts three to seven days, though the exact length depends heavily on the substance and the individual.

Here’s what typically happens during acute withdrawal:

• Onset of symptoms: For substances like alcohol and opioids, withdrawal symptoms often begin within hours of the last dose. With benzodiazepines, symptoms may take several days to appear because of the drug’s longer half-life. Recognizing the timing is important because it helps the care team prepare for the most vulnerable window.

• 24/7 medical monitoring in the home: During this stage, a licensed nurse or provider remains onsite, observing vital signs, mental status, and overall stability. This constant presence ensures that you are never left alone to manage symptoms and that care can be adjusted at any time.

• Medication management for comfort and safety: Withdrawal can trigger symptoms ranging from sweating and tremors to anxiety, nausea, and in some cases seizures or hallucinations. Evidence-based medications are administered to reduce discomfort, regulate sleep, ease cravings, and protect against dangerous complications. This medical support makes detox significantly safer and more tolerable.

• Daily physician oversight: In addition to the staff present in the home, a physician reviews your progress daily. They evaluate symptom reports, vital signs, and nursing observations, then adjust protocols as needed. This ensures your care is not just reactive but actively guided by medical expertise.

The length of acute withdrawal depends on the substance:

• Alcohol detox generally lasts about 5 days, with symptoms peaking in the first 72 hours.

• Opioid detox can run 7–10 days, with the most intense discomfort occurring between days 2 and 4.

• Benzodiazepine detox often requires a longer taper that extends beyond a week, sometimes several weeks, to avoid dangerous rebound symptoms.

• Stimulant detox may resolve in under a week, though fatigue and mood symptoms can persist longer.

This phase is the hardest to get through alone, but with medical supervision it becomes far safer and more manageable. Instead of being defined by fear, acute withdrawal becomes a structured process with continuous monitoring, timely interventions, and the reassurance that help is always present. For many clients, this hands-on support is what allows them to finally succeed in taking the first step toward recovery.

Stage 3: Stabilization (1–3 Days)

After the intensity of acute withdrawal begins to taper off, the body and mind enter a short but important stabilization phase. This period usually lasts one to three days, though the length can vary depending on the substance involved, the severity of withdrawal, and the individual’s overall health.

During stabilization, clients often notice the first real signs of relief:

• Sleep patterns begin to normalize: Insomnia, restlessness, or fragmented sleep often dominate the acute phase. As symptoms ease, the body starts to recover its natural rhythm. Restful sleep may not be perfect yet, but most clients begin experiencing longer and more restorative rest.

• Vital signs stabilize: Heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature return to safer ranges. This shift is a signal that the most dangerous period of withdrawal has passed.

• Appetite returns: Many people experience nausea or lack of appetite during acute withdrawal. By stabilization, hunger typically returns, and nutrition becomes a vital part of rebuilding strength and energy.

• Mood swings begin to ease: Anxiety and irritability may persist, but emotional intensity usually softens. Some clients describe this as feeling “clearer” or more able to think beyond the discomfort of withdrawal.

Even with these improvements, stabilization can be deceptive. Clients may feel physically stronger yet remain emotionally fragile. Fatigue, lingering cravings, and mood fluctuations are common, and without continued support, there is still a risk of relapse.

This is why stabilization is not treated as the end of detox but as a bridge into the next phase of recovery. The clinical team uses this time to reinforce coping strategies, encourage rest, and finalize aftercare plans. For many, this stage marks the first real sense of hope — the moment when recovery shifts from an overwhelming challenge into a visible, achievable path forward.

Stage 4: Transition to Aftercare (Ongoing)

Detox itself may last only a week, but recovery is a long-term process that requires continued structure and support. Once withdrawal symptoms subside and stabilization is achieved, the focus shifts immediately to aftercare planning. This step is critical because detox alone does not address the underlying causes of addiction. Without follow-up care, the risk of relapse remains high.

The transition to aftercare begins while detox is still taking place, ensuring that the momentum gained is carried forward without interruption. Depending on the individual’s needs, resources, and goals, aftercare may include one or more of the following services:

• Therapy and Counseling
  Individual therapy provides a space to address the emotional, psychological, and behavioral factors that fuel substance use. Approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-informed therapy, and motivational interviewing are often used to help clients develop healthier coping strategies. Family or couples counseling may also be introduced to repair relationships and build a supportive home environment.

• Recovery Coaching
  A recovery coach helps bridge the gap between clinical treatment and daily life. Coaches provide accountability, structure, and guidance in navigating triggers, routines, and responsibilities. They often focus on goal setting, time management, and relapse prevention strategies, offering consistent support outside of therapy sessions.

• Sober Companions
  For individuals who need close guidance, a sober companion can provide one-on-one support throughout daily activities. Companions help manage high-risk situations, provide transportation to meetings or appointments, and ensure accountability during vulnerable periods.

• Sober Living Homes
  A sober living environment offers a structured, substance-free setting that provides community support and accountability. Residents live alongside peers who share recovery goals, which helps reduce isolation and reinforces positive habits. For many, sober living serves as a step-down level of care between detox and full independence.

• Outpatient or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
  Outpatient and IOP services offer structured therapy, group support, and psychiatric care while allowing clients to remain at home or in a sober living environment. These programs provide a higher level of accountability and treatment intensity for those who need ongoing clinical support.

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
  For individuals recovering from opioids or alcohol use disorder, medications such as buprenorphine, naltrexone, or acamprosate may be introduced to reduce cravings and stabilize recovery. MAT is often combined with therapy and coaching for a comprehensive approach.

• Support Groups and Peer-Based Programs
  Groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, or faith-based groups provide long-term peer support. These programs encourage ongoing accountability, connection, and shared experience — key elements of sustained recovery.

• Family Education and Support Services
  Because addiction impacts entire households, family education sessions are often part of aftercare. Families learn how to support recovery, set boundaries, and recognize warning signs of relapse. This creates a healthier environment for everyone involved.

Why Aftercare Matters
Detox clears the body of substances, but without continued care, the psychological and behavioral patterns that fuel addiction remain unchanged. Aftercare provides the tools, structure, and support necessary to build resilience, reduce relapse risk, and create a sustainable recovery plan. It ensures that detox is not just an isolated event but the starting point of a larger recovery journey..

Substance-Specific Timelines

Alcohol Detox

• Symptoms begin: 6–12 hours after last drink

• Peak: 24–72 hours

• Duration: 5–7 days

• Risks: Seizures, DTs, dehydration

Opioid Detox

• Symptoms begin: 8–24 hours after last use

• Peak: 2–4 days

• Duration: 7–10 days

• Risks: Severe cravings, dehydration, depression

Benzodiazepine Detox

• Symptoms begin: 1–4 days

• Peak: 7–14 days (sometimes longer)

• Duration: Weeks in severe cases

• Risks: Seizures, rebound anxiety, prolonged insomnia

Stimulant Detox

• Symptoms begin: Within 24 hours

• Peak: 2–3 days

• Duration: 5–10 days

• Risks: Depression, suicidal ideation, fatigue

Why At-Home Detox Feels Shorter

Detox may last a week on paper, but with medical support, many clients report that it feels more manageable. This is because:

• Medications reduce the intensity of symptoms

• Constant monitoring reduces anxiety about safety

• Familiar surroundings ease stress and discomfort

• Early aftercare planning provides hope and structure

What Happens After Detox?

Detox is the doorway, not the destination. Without a plan for ongoing support, relapse risk remains high. Aftercare often includes:

• Individual or family therapy

• Recovery coaching for structure and accountability

• Sober companions or sober living

• Outpatient or intensive outpatient programs (IOP)

This continuity ensures that the work of detox leads into long-term recovery.

FAQs

How long does at-home detox usually take?
Most at-home detox programs last three to seven days, which is long enough to move through the acute withdrawal period for most substances. However, the exact timeline depends on factors like the type of drug or alcohol used, how long it was used, and your overall health. For example, benzodiazepine detox often requires a longer tapering process that may extend beyond a week or even several weeks to reduce the risk of seizures or severe rebound anxiety. Because of this variation, the care team sets expectations during the consultation so you know what timeline is realistic for your situation.

Can detox be shorter with medication?
Medications do not eliminate withdrawal completely, but they make symptoms far more manageable. For instance, medications can ease nausea, reduce anxiety, stabilize blood pressure, and help regulate sleep. While the total number of days needed for detox usually remains the same, the experience feels shorter and less overwhelming because discomfort is minimized. This support is what makes medically supervised detox much safer and more tolerable than attempting withdrawal alone.

What if I relapse after detox?
Relapse is a risk after any detox, whether done at home or in a facility. This is why detox is never considered a complete treatment on its own. Without follow-up care, the body may be substance-free, but the triggers, habits, and emotional struggles that led to use remain. If relapse happens, it is not a sign of failure but a signal that more structure and support are needed. Engaging in therapy, recovery coaching, sober companions, or structured living environments immediately after detox dramatically lowers the risk of relapse and provides the tools to get back on track quickly if it occurs.

Is at-home detox safe for all substances?
Not always. While many clients can detox safely at home with professional monitoring, some withdrawal scenarios are too risky. Severe alcohol withdrawal can lead to seizures or delirium tremens (DTs), which sometimes require hospital-level intervention. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can also be dangerous without a carefully managed taper, and individuals with unstable medical or psychiatric conditions may need inpatient care. This is why a thorough medical screening is essential before beginning at-home detox. The screening ensures that each client is placed in the safest possible setting for their needs.

Conclusion: Setting Expectations with Confidence

So, how long does at-home detox take? For most people, the process lasts about a week. While that is the typical range, the exact length depends on the substance being used, the severity and duration of use, and your overall health. Alcohol and opioids may resolve within five to seven days, while benzodiazepines often require longer, carefully supervised tapers. What matters most isn’t the precise number of days, but that detox is approached safely, under 24/7 medical monitoring, and with a structured plan for what happens next.

At Solace Health Group, we provide physician-led in-home detox services across Southern California, blending clinical safety with the comfort and privacy of your own home. Our programs are designed to handle every stage of the process — from the initial consultation and medical screening, to around-the-clock monitoring during detox, and finally to building a personalized aftercare plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

Detox is not just about clearing substances from the body; it’s about laying the groundwork for lasting recovery. With Solace, you aren’t left to face withdrawal on your own, nor are you sent back into daily life without support. Instead, you receive continuous care, compassionate guidance, and a roadmap that makes long-term sobriety achievable.

If you or a loved one are considering at-home detox, now is the time to take that step. With the right medical oversight and support system, detox can be the safe, steady beginning of a healthier life.