If you or a loved one is considering quitting alcohol, it’s important to understand what to expect physically and mentally in the early days of recovery. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and once your body has become dependent on it, stopping use can trigger withdrawal symptoms.
This guide will walk you through the stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline, what symptoms can appear, when they show up, and why medical supervision during detox is often critical for safety and success.
At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery (CMAR), we provide outpatient detox programs that support individuals through withdrawal and into long-term recovery, with care that’s compassionate, clinical, and customized.
Breaking Down the Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
While each individual’s experience can differ, here is a general breakdown of the alcohol withdrawal stages by time:
Stage 1: 6–12 Hours After Last Drink
- Mild symptoms begin
- Shaking or tremors
- Headaches
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep
This is often when people start feeling “off”, but symptoms can quickly escalate, especially for those with a long history of heavy drinking.

Stage 2: 12–48 Hours
- Symptoms intensify
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Fever, sweating, and confusion
- Heightened anxiety or panic
- Irritability
- Sensory sensitivity (light, noise)
For some individuals, hallucinations (visual or auditory) may begin during this window, known as alcohol hallucinosis. Though distressing, they are not usually life-threatening.
Stage 3: 48–72 Hours
- Peak withdrawal period for most people
- Risk of seizures increases significantly
- Possibility of developing Delirium Tremens (DTs)
DTs is a severe and potentially fatal complication of alcohol withdrawal that affects about 5% of people withdrawing from alcohol. Symptoms include:
- Confusion and disorientation
- High fever and rapid heartbeat
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Seizures
- Dangerously high blood pressure
This stage is a medical emergency. Anyone at risk for delirium tremens should never attempt detox at home.
Stage 4: 4–7 Days and Beyond
- Physical symptoms begin to stabilize
- Emotional and psychological symptoms may linger
- Continued insomnia, depression, anxiety
- Cravings for alcohol may persist
This is a vulnerable period when relapse is common, not due to physical discomfort, but emotional overwhelm and lack of coping strategies.
At CMAR, we help patients navigate this transition by transitioning directly into supportive care, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and therapy services.

What Influences the Withdrawal Timeline?
The stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline can vary depending on:
- Length and intensity of alcohol use
- Age and overall physical health
- Co-occurring mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, PTSD, depression)
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Liver function and metabolic rate
- History of past detox attempts
This is why CMAR begins every outpatient detox with a thorough clinical assessment, ensuring you receive a personalized plan that keeps you safe and supported from day one.
How Medical Detox at CMAR Can Help
CMAR’s outpatient alcohol detox program is designed to help you complete withdrawal safely, comfortably, and without disrupting your life. Here’s what to expect:
- Daily medical supervision and symptom monitoring
- FDA-approved medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Individual therapy and mental health support
- Flexible scheduling and telehealth options
- Seamless transition into ongoing care
We are Colorado’s only licensed outpatient detox center that integrates addiction medicine, therapy, case management, and peer support in one place.
When to Seek Medical Help
You should never attempt alcohol detox alone if you:
- Drink heavily every day
- Have previously experienced seizures or hallucinations during withdrawal
- Are over 40 with other health issues
- Take medications for anxiety or sleep
- Have experienced relapse after past attempts
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms consistent with Stage 3 or beyond, seek immediate medical attention.

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person who has been drinking heavily for weeks, months, or years suddenly stops or significantly reduces intake.
The brain, which has adapted to alcohol’s depressant effects, becomes hyperactive without it, leading to a range of symptoms that can vary from mild discomfort to medical emergencies.
Timeline Awareness Can Save Lives
Understanding the stages of alcohol withdrawal timeline isn’t just about preparing for what’s ahead, it’s about knowing when to ask for help. The sooner you receive professional support, the safer and more successful your recovery will be.
At CMAR, we make starting that journey easy, discreet, and affordable, offering expert-led outpatient detox throughout the Denver metro area.