Meth Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline, and Detox Treatment for Meth Addiction

The detection window for recent MA exposure for this kit is typically 48–72 hours (manufacturer’s information). A study of MA-dependent participants, who initiated and maintained abstinence from the drug for up to 5 weeks, compared to a matched healthy comparison group. In addition to therapy, people with a meth addiction also benefit from other forms of counseling and support. For example, 12-step programs or similar long-term peer group support is effective for many. When someone enters detox for meth addiction, doctors evaluate his or her physical and mental condition.

1. Although most effects of withdrawal subside within about a week, some symptoms can persist for several weeks.
2. But over the past decade, rates have gone up among Black people and younger folks aged 18-23.
3. Because it’s used to make meth, the federal government closely regulates products with pseudoephedrine.
4. The only legal meth product is a prescription medication approved to treat ADHD.
5. Medical detox is helpful for nutritional and hydration support.

But some pharmacological treatments have shown promise in reducing meth use. Bednarczyk said avoiding withdrawal is “part of the reinforcement for addictive behavior.” Using meth makes people addicted to the drug feel better. Call your health insurer to find out if you need to go to a specific doctor what are the signs of cocaine use or place for addiction treatment. You’ll typically pay less out-of-pocket if you go to “in-network” providers. People who use meth often need a professional counselor or drug treatment program to help them get better. You may use meth to make sex more pleasurable or to lower your inhibitions.

Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses – Alternative Intervention

After immediate issues are addressed, the detoxification process begins. A medically supervised detox program followed by rehab is the best option for most people with a meth addiction. Many of the symptoms a person experiences during meth withdrawal are similar to those that occur when withdrawing from any drug. The SR by Richards et al.6 included adults presenting for treatment of agitation, psychosis, or hyperadrenergic symptoms resulting from the use of amphetamine, related derivatives, and analogues. They author identified which drug was used in each primary study but not further information describing the patient populations was provided.

Anhedonia can continue for years after a person stops the drug. Therapy like CBT (Cognitive-behavioral therapy) helps teach new ways to cope with cravings and what might trigger meth use. Working with a mental health professional can give you the skills necessary for lasting recovery.

The Dangers of Crystal Methamphetamine

The same 2011 study found that participants slept a lot in the first few days of not using meth and reported higher post-sleep refreshment. Yet the overall quality of sleep, measured by the length of time it takes you to fall asleep and the number of times you wake up, remained low even after 3 weeks had passed. While symptoms of meth withdrawal are hardly comparable to those the dangers of mixing trazodone and alcohol of heroin or strong prescription opiates, they are still VERY difficult to cope with emotionally. Meth tends to create less physical withdrawal but a much stronger emotional or psychological withdrawal. Many people addicted to meth are unable to overcome their substance use disorder on their own. This can lead to continued use, which can exacerbate health problems.

Critical Appraisal of Individual Studies

When the drug is removed, dopamine drops below natural levels, and the resulting loss of enjoyment is distressing. If someone stops using methamphetamine, the brain must quickly adapt to this change. This kick-starts various processes that function to bring the brain chemistry closer to what it was before a person began taking methamphetamine. These are usually present before a person stops using methamphetamine. While comedowns and crashes are technically part of withdrawal, people often use these terms to describe the severity of symptoms (with a comedown being the least severe and withdrawal being the most severe).

If you feel comfortable, you can bring it up with a healthcare professional. Keep in mind that patient confidentiality laws will prevent them from reporting this information to law enforcement. When it comes to using medication to manage withdrawal symptoms, receiving a prescription is best. Your prescriber can determine the best option for your symptoms. They’ll also make sure it won’t interact with any other medications you take.