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Addiction withdrawal
7-minute read
Key facts
- If you are addicted to a substance, such as nicotine, drugs or alcohol, you can have withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it.
- Addiction withdrawal symptoms can include cravings, sleep problems, headaches, nausea and feeling restless or agitated.
- Talk to your doctor or a drug and alcohol support service before going through withdrawal, as medical support is important.
- You can get support and treatment for withdrawal symptoms at home, in a clinic or in hospital.
What is withdrawal from addiction?
Withdrawal is the process of cutting out, or cutting back on, addictive substances. It is also called ‘detoxification’, or ‘detox’.
You can have a physical or psychological dependence on a drug or alcohol. If you have a physical dependence, your body will rely on taking the drug to feel normal. If you stop taking the drug, you will have withdrawal symptoms.
Addictive substances can include:
- some medicines, like opioids or benzodiazepines (for example, diazepam and temazepam)
- illicit drugs
- alcohol
- nicotine, through smoking and vaping
Some behaviours, such as gambling and online gaming are also addictive. This article will concentrate on substance addiction withdrawal.
What are the symptoms of addiction withdrawal?
Withdrawal symptoms can be different for different people and can be mild or severe. Knowing the symptoms can make quitting easier for you. It can also make it easier for the people who are supporting you.
Symptoms will depend on:
- the type of substance you have been taking
- how long you have used it for
- your age
- your physical health
- your mental and emotional state
- the withdrawal process used
Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- cravings
- problems with sleep
- irritability or agitation
- feeling restless
- trouble concentrating
- mood changes
- feeling depressed or anxious
Physical symptoms can include:
- headaches
- aches and pains
- nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
- sweating
- tremors or shaking
Severe withdrawal symptoms can include:
Withdrawal symptoms can last for a few days or weeks. Cravings can last longer.
When should I see my doctor?
You need medical support when you are quitting, as it can be unsafe to suddenly stop using an addictive substance.
Talk to your doctor or with an alcohol and other drug treatment service about withdrawal symptoms before you start. This is especially important if you are withdrawing from using:
Your doctor or pharmacist can provide advice and support for quitting smoking or vaping.
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How are addiction withdrawal symptoms treated?
Treatment of addiction withdrawal symptoms depends on the type of drugs or substance you are withdrawing from and how bad your symptoms are.
Where can I go for withdrawal treatment?
There are public and private services that provide withdrawal programs. The aim of withdrawal management is to:
- treat the symptoms of withdrawal
- prevent complications
- plan follow-up treatment
You can take part in a withdrawal program:
- at home
- in a residential detox unit
- in a hospital
A safe and supportive place is important when withdrawing. Detoxing or withdrawing without support can lead to relapse. It can also be dangerous to your health — some withdrawal symptoms can be serious and severe.
Seek help from your doctor or an alcohol and drug treatment service. Support from friends or family can also help.
Treatments for withdrawal symptoms and addiction
Treating withdrawal and overcoming addiction can involve:
- regular fluid intake
- eating healthy foods and taking vitamin supplements
- medicines
- rest and relaxation techniques
- counselling
Medicines for withdrawal symptoms
Your doctor or pharmacist can provide medicines to help with withdrawal symptoms, including:
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhoea
- abdominal cramps
- headaches and muscle aches
- insomnia and agitation
You can also get medicines to help you manage and reduce nicotine dependence. Your doctor may recommend nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, mouth sprays or inhalers to reduce your withdrawal symptoms.
How can I help someone through withdrawal?
If you are supporting someone through withdrawal, talk to a doctor or a drug and alcohol service before starting.
It’s also important to look after yourself when caring for someone with an addiction. This includes:
- eating and sleeping well
- exercising
- seeing friends
- taking a break when you need one
For more information about caring for someone, go to Carer Gateway, or call 1800 422 737.
Resources and support
- The Alcohol and Drug Foundation has information on addiction and withdrawal and how to support people with drug and alcohol problems.
- Alcoholics Anonymous offers help to people with a drinking problem. Call 1300 222 222.
- ReachOut.com has information about addiction and mental health for young people.
- SMART Recovery Australia provides accessible evidence-based tools to help people manage addictive behaviours.
- Quit has information and help for those wanting to quit smoking or vaping. Call the Quitline on 13 7848.
You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanders
- Wellmob has resources for looking after your body and staying away from alcohol and other drugs.
- 13YARN has a fact sheet on understanding substance misuse.
Other languages
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation has translated resources about alcohol use, drugs, and a guide to supporting a loved one who may be using alcohol or other drugs.