A drug withdrawal emergency means calling 911 or going to the ER now. Do this if you see a seizure, severe confusion, trouble waking or breathing, or suspect an overdose. It is okay if you do not know the name of the drug yet.
If someone is in danger or may hurt themselves, call 911. If you have suicidal thoughts but are safe, call or text 988.
Reach out to a doctor soon if you do not have emergency signs. They can help you find the right care. We operate a treatment directory and are not a treatment provider. More steps are in our guide to finding drug detox care.
Drug Withdrawal Emergency: Going to the ER
Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Call 911 now for a seizure, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever or racing heart during withdrawal, or any suspected overdose.
During alcohol withdrawal, seizures, fever, severe confusion, hallucinations, or irregular heartbeats require emergency care.[1] Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly after regular use can cause serious, potentially life-threatening withdrawal, including seizures or delirium.[2] For suspected opioid overdose, inability to wake or slow or shallow breathing are signs; call 911 now.[3] Do not wait to identify the drug.
- Spot the danger. Watch for the emergency signs listed above.
- Call 911 now. Follow the dispatcher's instructions and stay with the person.
- Tell responders what happened. Mention possible withdrawal or overdose.
For thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call or text 988 now. If the person may act soon or is in immediate danger, call 911 now.
What Is the Safest Next Step?
This self-check is for information only and isn't a diagnosis. Any danger sign means emergency help now.
Drug Withdrawal Emergency Risks Change Based on the Drug
Biomedical, psychological, and social factors are checked for each person.[4] Never rely on the time of day to judge if symptoms are safe.
[5] Stopping alcohol can put your life at risk.
6–24 hours
after stopping or cutting back, alcohol withdrawal symptoms typically begin[6]
8–48 hours
after the last drink, alcohol withdrawal seizures can occur[6]
72–96 hours
after the last drink, alcohol withdrawal delirium often appears[6]
These times are just estimates for alcohol withdrawal. They do not predict what will happen in an individual case.[6] This is not a safe waiting period. Do not wait for a specific symptom to appear before seeking help.
For any substance, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now for danger signs, including seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever or racing heart during withdrawal, signs of an overdose, or immediate danger from suicidal thoughts. If you have suicidal thoughts but are safe and not in immediate danger, call or text 988.
| Substance | Broad Risk Considerations | Safe Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Seizures and delirium can occur during withdrawal.[6] | Call 911 or go to the nearest ER for danger signs. |
| Benzodiazepines | Withdrawal can be severe and potentially life-threatening.[2] | Without danger signs, contact a doctor promptly. |
| Opioids | Withdrawal can include vomiting and diarrhea.[7] | Without danger signs, contact a doctor or treatment program. |
| Stimulants | Suicidal thoughts without immediate danger: call or text 988. | For immediate danger or risk of acting, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now. |
Call a doctor right away if the person is pregnant, uses multiple substances, has serious health conditions, or symptoms are worsening. Only do this if no danger signs are present. If danger signs are there, use the emergency steps above. Read our guide on life-threatening alcohol withdrawal signs for more.
Withdrawal or Overdose? Move Quickly When Unsure
If you are unsure whether someone is experiencing withdrawal or an overdose, treat the situation as urgent. Do not use the clock as your only guide. Look at the warning signs you see to decide what to do.
| Possible Withdrawal Signs | Possible Overdose or Other Emergency Signs |
|---|---|
| Alcohol withdrawal can begin after a person stops or substantially reduces alcohol use.[6] | Inability to wake up[3] |
| Opioid withdrawal can cause vomiting and diarrhea.[7] | Slow or shallow breathing[3] |
| Unresponsiveness or trouble breathing[3] | |
| Seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations, high fever, or racing heart[1][6] |
Action: If the person is stable and shows no danger signs, reach out to a clinician or detox service about withdrawal care soon. If you see signs of overdose, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now.[3]
During suspected withdrawal, seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever, or a racing heart are danger signs.[1][6] If any occur—or the person is unresponsive, cannot be woken, or has slow or shallow breathing—call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now.[3] These signs require emergency evaluation regardless of whether withdrawal or overdose is suspected.
If you suspect an opioid overdose, call 911 right away.[3] If naloxone is available, give it and repeat it as directed by the product or dispatcher; this does not replace calling 911. Listen to the dispatcher’s directions while you wait for help. Start acting now. Do not delay to find out the substance first.
More detail on how these conditions differ is in our guide on distinguishing withdrawal from overdose. You can also review our guide on opioid overdose signs to learn more about critical warning signals.
Drug Withdrawal Emergency: Pick the ER or Detox
Urgency decides where you should go. The ER treats risks that can take a life right away. Medical detox watches over people who are stable.
- Check for danger signs. If you see seizures or severe confusion, call 911 or go to the ER now.
- Call a clinician or program. If there are no danger signs, call a doctor or detox program. Describe the symptoms and ask if they can help.
- Confirm medical support. Before you travel, check what medical help is available at the facility.
- Watch for changes. If symptoms get worse, stop and get emergency help right away.
| Feature | Emergency Room | Medically Supervised Detox |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Fixes urgent medical issues and stabilizes critical conditions[8] | Manages withdrawal under supervision as part of broader care[9] |
| When to Go | When danger signs are present or the person is unstable | When the person is stable and a clinician confirms the program fits their needs[4] |
For emergencies, the ER is the right place to go. Even if a patient cannot pay, hospitals must screen and stabilize them for emergency conditions.[8] So, expect quick safety checks and stabilization in emergency addiction care.
Medical detox works differently. It handles withdrawal symptoms while under watch. It is not always the same as ongoing treatment for substance use disorders.[9] Guidelines say withdrawal care should lead to continuing treatment, not stand alone.[9] Providers use individual assessments to guide care levels.[4] Always check with a provider if they can manage specific symptoms before you arrive. You can view our list of medically supervised detox programs to find local options.
Find Medical Detox Near Me for Proper Care
Getting proper care is a vital step. If you have urgent symptoms, go to the emergency room or call 911 now. Skip waiting for a directory search or insurance approval.
If it is not an emergency, begin by contacting your doctor or health plan. Calling SAMHSA’s National Helpline is another option for you. It is free and confidential.[10] FindTreatment.gov helps you find services in the U.S.[11]
Let the program know which substances are involved. Tell them about your current symptoms. Ask if their medical staff and emergency plans can safely manage your needs. Also, ask how they help you get ongoing care after detox. If you have questions about an exposure, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.[12]
Questions to Ask a Medical Detox Program
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Our tool can also help you search for nearby medical care to locate local programs that match your needs.
Meds, Comfort, and Home Fixes That Can Hurt
Your health and the drug you used shape withdrawal treatment. A clinician looks at your body to build a plan. Supportive care and monitoring are often part of it. The plan is built on an individualized assessment of your needs.[4]
Do not mix up drugs for acute withdrawal with those for ongoing substance use disorder treatment. Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are FDA-approved for opioid use disorder.[3] Clinicians may also use lofexidine to help ease opioid withdrawal symptoms during discontinuation.[13] Doctors can also prescribe meds to handle alcohol withdrawal symptoms and make the process safer.[5] This step is part of broader treatment, not a standalone cure.[9]
| Substance | What clinicians may consider | What you should not try on your own |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Supervised medication and monitoring to make the process safer[5] | Stopping abruptly without medical supervision or using unapproved remedies |
| Benzodiazepines | Clinician-managed care plans tailored to individual needs | Attempting a home taper or adjusting doses without professional guidance |
| Opioids | FDA-approved medications for opioid use disorder, such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone[3] | Using leftover prescriptions or mixing substances to ease discomfort |
| Stimulants | Assessment and supportive care to manage symptoms | Relying on over-the-counter products or supplements without medical advice |
Resting and drinking water can help ease symptoms while you look for care. But these steps do not take the place of medical oversight. Withdrawal can get worse fast. Do not use over-the-counter products or supplements to handle symptoms without medical advice. A doctor or pharmacist can tell you what is safe for your case. Do not try to mix or guess at treatments alone.
Does Benadryl work for withdrawal symptoms? There is no proof that it is safe for this use. OTC drugs can cover up serious signs. They may also react badly with other medications. Check with a licensed pro before you take any new item.
Never wait for a home fix if you need emergency care. Call 911 or go to the ER if you are in danger. Raise any questions about medicine with your doctor first. They have the best grasp of your health history.
ER Steps for a Drug Withdrawal Emergency and Key Info for Staff
At the ER, staff prioritize your immediate safety. They check your vital signs and ask about your symptoms. Any tests rely on what they observe. One test does not fit every type of withdrawal. Your care depends on your health history and current symptoms.
Honesty helps them treat you safely. If you are unsure about substances, say so. Do not wait for help until you have all the details.
- State the main concern. Tell the nurse or doctor you worry about drug withdrawal or an overdose.
- Share what you know. List substances you think are involved and when you last used them.
- Mention other factors. Note any prescriptions, other drugs, pregnancy, or health issues.
- Ask about next steps. Ask what they found and what care they suggest next.
What to Tell Emergency Staff
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Knowing what happens at the ER for withdrawal can lower stress during a hard time. Grasping what emergency addiction care involves helps you advocate for yourself or a loved one. Read our guide on what happens during detox intake if you shift from the ER to a recovery setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I give someone who is withdrawing?
Do not give alcohol, drugs, or other meds. Do not use over-the-counter remedies for withdrawal. Stay nearby if it is safe. Help the person get medical care. Call 911 or go to the ER now for danger signs. This includes seizures, severe confusion, or a fast heart rate. If you are unsure what was taken, call Poison Control. Do not delay emergency care.
Can Benadryl help with withdrawal symptoms?
Do not use Benadryl for withdrawal without advice. Talk to a clinician or pharmacist first. It can be risky with alcohol or sedatives. Other substances may also cause issues. Get professional advice before adding any new medicine.
Are panic attacks a symptom of withdrawal?
Panic-like feelings can happen during withdrawal. They do not prove a panic disorder exists. New or bad symptoms need a medical check. Use emergency care for danger signs like confusion. Also go to the ER for hallucinations.
What medicines are used to treat withdrawal symptoms?
Treatment depends on the substance and health status. A clinician may use supervised meds and monitoring. The FDA approved lofexidine for adult opioid withdrawal.[13] Do not take or give meds without guidance. Never use someone else’s prescription.
What is the hardest addiction to quit?
There is no single answer for everyone. How hard it feels varies by person. Medical danger is a different issue than difficulty. A clinician can check your specific risks and needs.[4] They look at your health and support system too.
What drug has the most severe withdrawal symptoms?
No universal ranking predicts your specific risk safely. A clinician can check your situation and pick the right care setting.[4]
Why is withdrawal worse at night?
Symptoms may feel more noticeable at night when things are quiet or there are fewer distractions, but what contributes varies by person. The time of day is not a reason to delay care. Vomiting and diarrhea are common opioid withdrawal signs.[7] For seizures, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever or racing heart during withdrawal, call 911 or go to the nearest ER now.[1] Signs of an overdose, such as being unable to wake or slow or shallow breathing, require a 911 call now.[3] For thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or go to the nearest ER now; for suicidal thoughts, call or text 988. For worsening symptoms without these danger signs, contact a clinician.
