How Long Do Withdrawls Really Last?

Hey Everyone! My brother is in rehab right now on Day # 8 and he's still in a ton of pain. He did a 5 day medically assisted withdrawl and now they are easing him off of Librium. He's in so much pain and wanted me to check to see what other people's experiences are and how long it lasts for. He's also been having some major anxiety/possible panic attacks and it's freaking us out. Is that normal too?

Can anyone tell me what to tell him?

Thanks so much!
-W
All quite normal. The worst of the physical detox should be over, but there will be residual stuff for awhile...maybe like six weeks, but break that to him gently. My daughter detoxed twice and had the rattles for a week and then other symptoms for a month after she got out. The sleeplessness was the worst for her...days and days of no sleep...listlessness that lasted weeks...bowel problems, mood swings, anxiety...plenty of anxiety. The physical part is easier than the mental, but both are a challenge. A lot depends how long you were on, how big your habit was...stuff like that.

A lot of detoxes are what they call spin-dries...get you off the heroin or oxycontin, maybe give you some methadone, or some benzos to get you through, but give you nothing once you leave. So much depends on where he is and for how long a stay. Is he in a detox or a rehab? Detox is usually 5-7 days while a rehab can be 30 days or so.

It's not easy getting off junk and he'll need lots of support coming out...a therapist, a drug counselor, 12 step meetings, anything to keep him clean.

I wish you both all the best.

Peace~MomNMore

Thanks! He's in a 21 day program. He should be done with the Librium around Day #14. I'm pretty sure they don't give him anything once he leaves.

I've heard that things are supposed to get a lot better for him around day #14.....is that true?

-W
[He's also been having some major anxiety/possible panic attacks and it's freaking us out. Is that normal too?
After 2 weeks or so- the detox off of heroin is mostly mental and strong psychological urges. This is why 12step (if so inclined) or some type of therapy is needed for guidance

best regards
jack

Of course depending on the amount and length of the habit it might be longer- - but its do-able after 2 weeks !!! The sleep issues and bathroom issues will get better everyday. To throw away 2 weeks of the hardest part is silly- maybe look for advise from a sub doctor