How Long Withdrawal From Benzos Really Lasts

When you are in the middle of benzo withdrawal, it can feel endless and frightening. Many people are told it should be “over in a couple of weeks,” then start to worry something is very wrong when symptoms drag on. Understanding the real range of timelines can lower fear and help you plan.

Most benzo withdrawal symptoms begin within 1–7 days of dose reduction or stopping, peak in the first 1–2 weeks, and gradually improve over 2–8 weeks, but some people experience lingering or protracted symptoms for many months and, in a minority of cases, several years.[1][2][3][5]

How Long Does Benzo Withdrawal Really Last?

There is no single fixed timeline; withdrawal length varies with:

• Which benzo (short- vs long-acting)[2][3][5]
• Dose and duration of use[1][2][5][8]
• Speed of taper or abrupt stop[1][2][7][8]
• Individual sensitivity and health history[1][5][8]

However, research and clinical sources do show common patterns.

Typical Withdrawal Phases

Most medical sources describe three broad phases: early, acute, and protracted withdrawal.[1][2][3][4][5][8]

1. Early / Onset Phase (hours to several days)

• Short-acting benzos (e.g., Xanax, Ativan): symptoms can begin 6–24 hours after the last dose or big cut.[2][3][5][6]
• Intermediate-acting: onset around 24–48 hours.[3]
• Long-acting benzos (e.g., Valium, Klonopin): onset typically 2–7 days, sometimes up to 2–17 days.[2][3][5]

Early symptoms often include:

• Rebound anxiety and insomnia[1][2][4][5]
• Restlessness, irritability, mild physical tension[1][2][3]

2. Acute Withdrawal Phase (roughly 1–4 weeks)

This is usually the most intense period.

• Many sources place peak symptoms in the first 2 weeks after stopping or a big reduction.[1][2][3][4][5][6]
• For many people, most acute symptoms subside by 2–4 weeks, though longer-acting benzos can extend this phase.[3][5][6]

Common acute symptoms include:

• Marked anxiety, panic, agitation[1][2][3][4][8][9]
• Insomnia, broken sleep, vivid dreams[1][2][3][4][9]
• Tremor, sweating, muscle pain, headaches[1][2][3][4][6][8][9]
• Sensory hypersensitivity (light, sound), depersonalization/derealization[1][2][3][4][8][9]
• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)[1][2][3][4][8]

You can read more about symptoms like depersonalization and derealization here:

• What Is Depersonalization
• What Is Derealization

3. Post‑acute / Protracted Withdrawal (months to years for some)

After the first few weeks, many people notice a gradual easing, but some symptoms can linger.

• Symptoms “generally last 5–28 days, though some may last for several months.”[4]
• Protracted withdrawal (sometimes called PAWS) can last months to a year or more in some individuals.[1][2][3][8]
• One source notes about 10% of people who abused benzos still feel some withdrawal symptoms years later.[2]

Lingering symptoms may include:

• Ongoing anxiety and depression[1][2][3][4][8]
• Cognitive issues (poor concentration, “brain fog”)[1][2][3][8][9]
• Sleep disturbance[1][2][3][4][5][8]
• Sensory sensitivity, mild autonomic symptoms (sweating, internal tremor)[1][2][3][8]

For more on long-term brain and nervous system changes, see:

• Long Term Effects Of Benzos On The Brain Is It Reversible
• Long Term Effects Of Xanax On The Brain And Nervous System
• Long Term Effects Of Ativan On Cognition

Why Do Some People Have Such Long Withdrawals?

Several factors can push timelines out:

• High dose or long-term use (months/years)[1][2][5][8]
• Very rapid taper or cold turkey[1][2][3][6][7][8]
• Repeated withdrawals / on‑off use, which may contribute to a kindling effect (more severe withdrawal each time)[8][9]
• Co‑occurring conditions (anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, other substances)[2][5][8]

You can learn more about these patterns here:

• What Is Tolerance Withdrawal
• Understanding The Kindling Effect In Repeated Withdrawal
• What Is Protracted Withdrawal Paws

Rapid Detox vs Slow Taper: Huge Impact on Duration

Medical guidelines emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all taper and that the taper rate should be based on symptoms.[7] Fast detox or abrupt stopping tends to:

• Intensify acute symptoms
• Increase risk of seizures and serious complications[2][3][6][9]
• Potentially increase the chance of prolonged or protracted symptoms

A slow, individualized taper, often using diazepam in some protocols, can spread withdrawal over months but often reduces the severity at any single point.[1][7][8] See:

• Tapering Off Xanax A Step By Step Guide To Weaning Safely
• Switching From Xanax To Valium The Crossover Protocol Explained

Practical Tips For Coping With a Long Withdrawal

• Work with a prescriber who understands slow tapers

  • Ask about symptom‑based tapering and avoiding large, rapid cuts.[1][7][8]

• Avoid abrupt stopping or large dose jumps

  • Especially important if you’ve used benzos for months or years, or at high doses.[2][3][7][8]

• Track your symptoms in a journal

  • Helps you and your prescriber decide when to hold the dose longer before the next cut.

• Stabilize basics: sleep, food, hydration

  • Prioritize a simple, regular sleep routine and balanced meals. For more on staying active without worsening symptoms, see Exercise Intolerance How To Stay Active Without Revving Symptoms.

• Be cautious with “withdrawal supplements”

  • Many products make big promises with little evidence. See: Supplements And Withdrawal Pills Do They Work.

• Ask about non‑benzo medications only when truly needed

  • Some people use agents like gabapentin or others as adjuncts; these also have risks.[1][3][5][8] See: Medications Used To Treat Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Gabapentin And Others.

• Expect “windows and waves”

  • Many people report periods of relief (“windows”) and flare-ups (“waves”) as the nervous system recalibrates.

• Limit alcohol and other sedatives

  • They can destabilize recovery and increase seizure risk.[2][3][8]

• Educate family or supports

  • Share resources so they understand that longer withdrawals are recognized in the literature and not “in your head.”

• If symptoms are extreme or unsafe, seek urgent help

  • Severe agitation, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, or seizures are emergencies.[2][3][6][9]

For personal perspectives and decision points, you may find this helpful:

• The Decision To Quit Why I Chose To Stop Benzos
• Choosing The Right Detox Center For Benzodiazepines

FAQ: How Long Does Benzo Withdrawal Last?

How long does “typical” benzo withdrawal last?

Most people experience the worst symptoms in the first 1–2 weeks, with significant improvement by 4–8 weeks, especially after a gradual taper.[1][2][3][5] Some residual symptoms can continue longer, but for many, daily functioning improves steadily over the first few months.[1][2][4][5]

How long can protracted benzo withdrawal last?

Protracted symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and cognitive issues can persist for months to a year or more in some individuals.[1][2][3][8] A small minority report symptoms lasting several years, particularly after high doses, long-term use, or rapid withdrawal.[2][8]

Do short-acting benzos have shorter withdrawals?

Short-acting benzos usually have earlier onset and more intense early symptoms, often beginning within 6–24 hours and peaking in the first week.[2][3][5][6] The overall withdrawal may still last weeks to months, especially after high-dose or long-term use.[1][2][3]

Will a slow taper make withdrawal shorter?

A slow taper often makes withdrawal more manageable, but not necessarily shorter in calendar time.[1][7][8] Symptoms are spread out and typically less severe, which can reduce the risk of complications and possibly lower the chance of very prolonged or protracted withdrawal.[1][7][8]

Conclusion

Benzo withdrawal is best understood as a range, not a fixed calendar: days to weeks for the acute phase, months for full settling in many people, and longer for a vulnerable minority. Knowing these patterns can help you choose a safer taper, interpret symptoms more calmly, and hold on to hope as your nervous system heals.