Call Now (888) 229-7989
Client Portal
Verify Insurance

Understanding Meth Withdrawal Symptoms & Treatment

Medically reviewed by Dr. Po-Chang HsuMarch 3, 2025
Written by
On March 3, 2025

Table of Contents

Key Points

  • Withdrawal symptoms usually occur when the substance is reduced or eliminated.
  • Meth withdrawal symptoms range from mild to life-threatening and include physical, psychological, and cognitive symptoms.
  • The meth withdrawal timeline typically occurs in three phases, the crash, withdrawal, and protracted withdrawal, lasting 12 hours to several months in total.
  • Meth cravings are usually the strongest in the first week and can last for as long as 5 weeks.
  • There is currently no FDA-approved medication to treat methamphetamine withdrawal directly. However, it is possible to manage symptom relief with over-the-counter painkillers, antidiarrheals, and other easily accessible solutions.
  • The best treatment for meth withdrawal and substance use disorder is behavioral treatment, contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, group therapy, and other evidence-based interventions.

Meth withdrawal symptoms are extensive and range from mild (fatigue and joint pain) to serious (cravings, paranoia, sleep disruption, and suicidal thoughts). Early withdrawal is the most critical, and the potential for relapse is high. Seek professional treatment right away to withdraw safely and cultivate a sober, healthy lifestyle.

An Overview Of Meth

Meth or methamphetamine is a highly potent synthetic stimulant drug and a schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction.[1] There are some medically approved uses for methamphetamine, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obesity, and narcolepsy, though these are available via prescription only.[2]

The stimulant is commonly used recreationally in some formulations and can be ingested, injected, or smoked as a pill, liquid, or powder. Some street names for meth include ice, crystal ice, crystal meth, glass, Tina, chalk, redneck cocaine, crypto, and many others.

Meth’s short-term effects include euphoria, increased alertness, and an energy boost. These effects come with serious side effects and health concerns, including rapid heart rate, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, paranoia, insomnia, memory loss, stroke, or even death—especially with long-term or consistent use.[3]

Common Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

Like any harmful substance, physical or psychological dependence on methamphetamine addiction is associated with withdrawal syndrome. This usually occurs when the substance intake is reduced or eliminated, triggering many unpleasant symptoms. 

That experience can lead one back to the substance in an attempt to find relief and can continue the cycle of substance use disorder. Common symptoms of meth withdrawal include the following:[4]

Physical Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Headaches
  • Red and itchy eyes
  • Muscle pain
  • Joint pain
  • Pounding heart sensation
  • Clammy skin

Emotional, Psychotic, and Psychological Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Constant thoughts of meth or using meth
  • Lack of motivation
  • Mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression
  • Lack of interest in life or pleasure
  • Feeling restless
  • Suicidal ideation
  • Experiencing hallucinations (audible or tactile)
  • Feeling paranoid

Cognitive Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Appetite changes (increase or decrease)
  • Disrupted sleep patterns
  • Fatigue
  • Memory loss
  • Inability to concentrate

How long do withdrawals last?

The meth withdrawal timeline typically occurs in three phases, the crash, withdrawal, and protracted withdrawal. The crash phase can last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours and is defined by exhaustion, intense cravings, and fatigue.[5] The primary withdrawal phase can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks, peaking in intensity after approximately 7 days.  Protracted withdrawal is a long-term experience that lasts anywhere from 6 to 12 months. This phase can have lasting effects and symptoms, including cognitive deficiencies.[6]

How long do meth cravings last?

Meth cravings are a common meth withdrawal that can be the hardest to overcome. Cravings are usually the strongest in the first week and can last up to 5 weeks.[7] Persistent drug cravings during this time are one of the primary reasons that this is the most critical recovery period. Seeking treatment and learning coping skills to prevent relapse is the best way to remain sober and continue healing.

How To Tell Meth Withdrawal Symptoms From Other Conditions or Illnesses

It is possible to tell the difference between methamphetamine withdrawal and other conditions or illnesses. There is a specific withdrawal pattern and phases of withdrawal that can be an indicator of where one is at in the process. The presence of psychotic and psychological symptoms, in addition to physical symptoms, may further indicate the cause. 

Also, consider the person’s history of meth or substance use and when the symptoms began. If they’ve been exposed to another illness with similar symptoms or uncertainty about the cause of any sickness, seek medical attention and get evaluated. 

Treating Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

There is currently no FDA-approved medication to treat methamphetamine withdrawal directly. This is true of all stimulant substances. The effects of other substances (like opioids and alcohol) can be halted or reduced with other medications to reduce cravings, but this is not the case for meth.

It is possible to manage symptom relief with over-the-counter painkillers, antidiarrheals, and other easily accessible solutions. However, medical professionals should manage and oversee this approach as part of a greater recovery plan.

Studies show that the best treatment for meth withdrawal and substance use disorder is
behavioral treatment, contingency management, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, group therapy, and other evidence-based interventions.[8] These interventions extend beyond “feeling better” and help you or your loved one create a new life full of potential, success, and joy.

What Are the Best Coping Strategies for Overcoming Meth Addiction?

There are many coping strategies beneficial to recovery. According to behavioral studies, some of the best include mindfulness and building self-efficacy.[9] Together, this pairing helps clients reduce negative emotions that can trigger relapse, handle challenging situations confidently, put stressful situations in a new perspective, improve overall well-being, and reduce cravings. It’s also important to build social support and have a trusted circle of confidants who can hold you accountable and help you through challenging times. 

Other common coping strategies for recovery include:

  • Journaling
  • Hobbies and adventures
  • Exercise
  • Meditation
  • Breathwork
  • Sufficient sleep
  • Music (playing, listening, writing)
  • Self-care
  • Charitable and community work
  • Practicing gratitude

What Treatment Programs Are Available for Meth Addiction?

There are several treatment options available for anyone navigating substance abuse or dual diagnosis concerns.

  • Medical Detox: The detoxification level of care offers a safe and monitored space where clients receive 24/7 support during withdrawal and early recovery.
  • Inpatient Residential: Residential treatment is a distraction-free environment where clients can focus on treatment and healing.
  • Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Full-time care without a residential component so clients can stay home or in a safe place.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Flexible, part-time treatment that lets you live your life while still benefitting from consistent treatment.
  • Outpatient Programs (OP): Clients attend weekly treatment and maintain access to group support and other recovery resources. This level of care is best for after other programs are completed.

Get Help With Meth Withdrawal Symptoms & Recovery

Overcoming substance use disorder or co-occurring disorders is always challenging, and it’s generally not safe to attempt withdrawal and detox alone. If you or a loved one are struggling with this highly addictive stimulant, reach out to an addiction treatment center for support right away.

Medical Content Writer

Amanda Stevens is a highly respected figure in the field of medical content writing, with a specific focus on eating disorders and addiction treatment. Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Purdue University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, which serves as a strong educational foundation for her contributions.

Meth Addiction Resources

Begin Your Journey

The help you need is just a step away. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options.

Get In Touch

Frequently Asked Questions About Meth Withdrawal Symptoms

Yes. Recovery is far more than a 3 or 10 day detox. You may be feeling better, but this is also the time when you are the most vulnerable to relapse. When the intense cravings hit and the symptoms of withdrawal intensify, you will want the benefit of medical supervision, treatment, and group support a treatment facility offers.

Treatment should be viewed as a long-term system for success instead of a short-term solution for symptom relief. The benefits of treatment go beyond healthcare and facilitate a lifestyle transformation that improves overall well-being and every area of your life.

There are some “detox at home” kits advertised, and they may be appropriate for some people and some substances, but these situations would be rare. Acute withdrawal symptoms of meth can be dangerous, and this process should not be attempted alone or at home. Professional support from an addiction specialist and a team of healthcare providers offer the best chance of recovery success and safety. Always talk to your doctor before attempting to detox at home on your own.

Every person interacts with substances differently, and how one affects you may not be true for someone else. Any substance that carries a risk of abuse, dependence, and addiction can be difficult to quit, even when they’re prescribed medications. However, some of the most common substances that are difficult to quit include alcohol, stimulants, benzodiazepines, meth, prescription drugs, fentanyl, Adderall, sleeping pills, suboxone, cocaine, heroin, opioids, oxycodone, marijuana, inhalants, crack, and others.

There Is A Better Way To Live. It's Time To Get The Help You Deserve.

Take the first step in getting your life back. Speak with our admissions team today.
Explore Programs

[1]Drug scheduling. DEA. (n.d.). https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling

[2]Nishimura, T., Takahata, K., Kosugi, Y., Tanabe, T., & Muraoka, S. (2017, May). Psychomotor effect differences between L-methamphetamine and D-methamphetamine are independent of murine plasma and brain pharmacokinetics profiles. Journal of neural transmission (Vienna, Austria : 1996). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5399046/

[3]U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2025, January 30). Methamphetamine. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/methamphetamine#long-term

[4][7]Zorick, T., Nestor, L., Miotto, K., Sugar, C., Hellemann, G., Scanlon, G., Rawson, R., & London, E. D. (2010, October). Withdrawal symptoms in abstinent methamphetamine-dependent subjects. Addiction (Abingdon, England). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3071736/

[5][6]Acheson, L. S., Williams, B. H., Farrell, M., McKetin, R., Ezard, N., & Siefried, K. J. (2023, January). Pharmacological treatment for methamphetamine withdrawal: A systematic review and meta-analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. Drug and alcohol review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10083934/

[8]U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2025a, January 30). Methamphetamine. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/methamphetamine

[9]Mutumba, M., Moskowitz, J. T., Neilands, T. B., Lee, J.-Y., Dilworth, S. E., & Carrico, A. W. (2021, May 18). A mindfulness-based, stress and coping model of craving in methamphetamine users. PloS one. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8130914/

(888) 229-7989

© 2025 SOBA New Jersey. All Rights Reserved.
SEO by DIGITECH

Privacy Policy
Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin Youtube
Your Recovery Can Start Now. Contact Soba NJ Today

If you are ready to take the first step toward a new life free from substances, we are here to answer any questions and help you begin your recovery journey.

Reach Out To Get Started

© All Rights Reserved 2025. Soba New Jersey. SEO by DIGITECH .

Call Now

(888) 229-7989