Medical Detox Withdrawal Timeline
Select a substance to see the typical stages of supervised withdrawal: what tends to happen when, what monitoring is usual, and which medications are commonly used.
Acute Early Onset Symptoms
Tremors, elevated heart rate (tachycardia), anxiety, diaphoresis (sweating), nausea.
Continuous cardiac monitoring, baseline toxicology, hydration, oral Thiamine (Vitamin B1).
Long-acting Benzodiazepine taper (Diazepam or Chlordiazepoxide) to prevent seizures.
Peak Physical Withdrawal & Seizure Window
Peak autonomic hyperactivity, potential hallucinosis, risk of Delirium Tremens (DTs).
24/7 ICU-level vital sign surveillance, continuous CIWA-Ar protocol scoring every 2 hours.
Intravenous fluids, IV Anticonvulsants, Benzodiazepine titration, Antiemetics.
Physical Stabilization Phase
Normalizing blood pressure, stabilization of sleep cycles, gradual appetite return.
Transition from acute medical ward to residential rehab housing, dietary consultation.
Acamprosate (Campral) or Naltrexone initiation for long-term alcohol abstinence maintenance.
Post-Acute Transition & Inpatient Rehab
Stable physical vitals, mild post-acute withdrawal anxiety (PAWS).
Individual psychotherapy, CBT skills, 12-Step or SMART recovery integration.
Continued oral Naltrexone or monthly Vivitrol injection.