How Long Does Cold Turkey Last?

If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction or substance abuse, one of the first steps in the recovery process will be to stop using the substance. This in itself can be very challenging. And, without the right help and support, it can even be dangerous.

This blog covers everything there is to know about going cold turkey, including its duration and the most common withdrawal symptoms you can expect.

What Does Cold Turkey Mean?

Cold turkey means when a person stops using an addictive substance without any gradual tapering or slow reduction of the substance over time.

There are many reasons why someone might choose to go cold turkey – namely because of its quick and immediate approach to recovery. Alternatively, you might be motivated by other reasons, such as pressure from loved ones or health concerns. Whatever your reason for going cold turkey, it’s important that you know what to expect and how to deal with any withdrawal symptoms.

How Long Does Cold Turkey Last For?

The duration and severity of cold turkey symptoms typically depend on a few different factors, including the specific substance. See below for a few examples of what this can look like, depending on the substance.

• Nicotine: When someone quits smoking, symptoms usually begin up to a few hours after the last cigarette. Withdrawal can last up to 3 weeks, with psychological cravings lasting much longer.
• Opioids: Initial withdrawal symptoms for short-acting opioids can occur 12 hours after cessation and 30 hours for long-acting opioids. 72 hours after the last dose is when most people will experience withdrawal symptoms and these can last for up to 2 weeks. Depending on the personal circumstances of the individual, it can be dangerous to quit opioids abruptly. For this reason, medical intervention may be required.
• Alcohol: Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can take place 6-12 hours after an individual’s last drink, with symptoms reaching their peak 24-72 hours after the last drink. While acute symptoms can last up to a week, some people face lingering symptoms for months. If an alcohol dependency is present, it can be very dangerous to quit alcohol altogether and suddenly.
• Stimulants: Withdrawal symptoms from the likes of cocaine, methamphetamine, and other stimulant drugs can begin within a few hours. Peak symptoms occur within 2-3 days and this acute withdrawal phase typically lasts around 1-2 weeks. However, prolonged symptoms can last for several months.

Common Factors Affecting Withdrawal Duration And Severity

The type of substance isn’t the only factor that has an impact on the duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms. The duration and severity of addiction also play a huge role in how long someone experiences symptoms. For example, heavy and chronic users or long-term users may experience more severe experiences for a longer period.

Individual health and metabolism can also impact withdrawal. Those suffering from poor mental and physical health may experience a longer and more difficult withdrawal period. Support services are typically seen as a key factor in helping people to endure the withdrawal process safely and effectively.

Common Symptoms of Cold Turkey Withdrawal

Although withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance and also the individual, it generally includes a combination of physical and psychological symptoms which are not only difficult to deal with but challenging. This includes (but is not limited to):

• Irritability and mood swings
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Appetite changes
• Muscle aches and pains
• Sweating and fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Tremors and seizures
• Hallucinations
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Cravings

The main reason why withdrawal symptoms occur is because the body and brain have got used to the presence of the substance and have begun to rely on it to function. Without it, the brain’s neurotransmitters and the body experience a level of disruption, which results in the physical and psychological symptoms mentioned above.

What’s more, depending on the substance, there are specific symptoms. For example, when it comes to nicotine withdrawal, the brain has to regulate its dopamine levels again, resulting in headaches and irritability. Without the pain relief of opioids, the body can experience muscle aches and nausea. And, because of nervous system overactivity, without alcohol, individuals can suffer from shakes, tremors and hallucinations. Similarly, stimulant withdrawal results in agitation and fatigue because the brain’s dopamine levels drop.

Put simply, these symptoms occur because the body and brain are trying to rebalance themselves and the chemical environment while coping without the substance.

The Risks Of Cold Turkey Withdrawal

The main risks associated with quitting cold turkey are severe withdrawal symptoms, which can be not only difficult to deal with but also life-threatening in some instances. For example, it is not recommended for an individual who has an addiction to alcohol to attempt to stop consuming alcohol suddenly. This is because the withdrawal can be dangerous and even fatal, depending on the person and the severity of the addiction.

What’s more, without the proper treatment and support, the risk of relapse is high, and the severity of withdrawal symptoms can lead to some individuals relapsing. Abruptly stopping substances can also cause someone’s mental health to become worse, which is why it’s so important to consult a medical professional if you are considering quitting cold turkey.

Managing Cold Turkey Withdrawal

Quitting a substance cold turkey can be very challenging, but there are several ways to help you manage the process and any symptoms:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
• Eat well: Ensure you eat healthily to support your physical and mental well-being.
• Keep moving: Regular exercise can help with some symptoms.
• Get rest: Prioritise sleep and relax to help your body to recover.
• Get support: Lean on friends, family and local support groups for essential encouragement and advice.

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations or extreme mental health episodes, you should contact a medical professional immediately. What’s more, if withdrawal symptoms persist beyond the average timeframe (a couple of weeks), you should contact your GP for advice.

Reach Out for Support Today

Withdrawal is a difficult part of the recovery journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact our friendly team today for free and confidential advice on withdrawal today.