When you stop using stimulants, you may feel an early "crash." This happens as the effects wear off. Withdrawal may begin within hours to days after stopping or reducing use. Symptoms often peak in the first several days and ease over days to weeks, though some symptoms can last weeks to months.[1] After that, other symptoms can follow. You might feel very tired or sad. Your sleep and appetite may change. Strong cravings are also common.
Stimulant withdrawal looks different for everyone. The substance matters, as does how much you used and for how long. Your overall health plays a role too. These factors shape your symptoms and how long they last.
This guide covers what to expect with prescription amphetamines, cocaine, and methamphetamine. It also shares steps for finding support. We are the editorial team at a treatment directory. We research public health sources to help you understand your options. We are not a treatment provider. This information is not a diagnosis or a personal plan.
Stimulant Crash vs. the Withdrawal Phase
People often use the word "crash" to describe a sudden drop in energy as a stimulant wears off. This can feel intense, but it is just the start. Stimulant withdrawal is a wider process that can last much longer than the crash. Symptoms may include fatigue, depressed mood, sleep changes, increased appetite, vivid dreams, and psychomotor changes.[2]
Everyone’s body and history are different. There is no single schedule that predicts what you will feel. Symptoms can go up and down. They might get better for a day, then return. The ranges below are broad estimates, not a countdown. If your symptoms feel severe or unsafe, do not wait for a specific day to ask for help.
Weeks to months
Possible time some lingering symptoms stay, though this varies widely[1]
The likely course can differ depending on the substance. For prescription amphetamines, withdrawal signs and symptoms may occur after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction following prolonged use.[3] Cocaine withdrawal can involve depressed mood, fatigue, sleep changes, increased appetite, and cravings.[4] Post-acute symptoms of stimulant withdrawal—which include depression, anxiety, insomnia, and paranoia—can last for weeks to months regardless of the specific stimulant.[1]
Physical discomfort often fades first. But strong urges to use can last longer. Learning about managing stimulant cravings can help you handle this longer stretch of recovery.
Symptoms After Stopping Stimulants
Stopping stimulants can bring on a range of changes. Not everyone gets every symptom, and severity varies from person to person. The table below groups common experiences so you know what to watch for and what to mention to a clinician.
| Symptom area | What you might notice | What to discuss with a clinician |
|---|---|---|
| Energy and physical changes | Fatigue, slowed movement or restlessness[2] | How much energy you have day to day, and whether slowing down or agitation feels unsafe |
| Sleep and appetite | Vivid, unpleasant dreams; trouble sleeping or sleeping too much; increased appetite[2] | Changes in sleep patterns or eating habits that feel out of your control |
| Mood | Feeling down, sad or empty; depression[2] | Whether low mood makes daily tasks feel impossible or raises safety concerns |
| Cravings | Strong urges to use again; post-acute anxiety or paranoia that can linger for weeks to months[1] | Whether cravings make it hard to stay engaged in treatment or recovery plans |
They do not mean you are failing. Addressing these symptoms can help support ongoing treatment engagement.[1]
Keep in mind that this list cannot identify the cause of your symptoms or predict how long they will last for you. Only a clinician who knows your history can help sort out what is happening. If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now, or call or text 988.
Prescribed ADHD Medication and Nonmedical Use
Taking a stimulant as prescribed is different from using it outside a doctor's care. These patterns differ, so your symptoms may not match those for cocaine or methamphetamine. FDA labeling for prescription amphetamines, like Adderall, warns of a high potential for abuse and misuse.[5] This can lead to a substance use disorder.
Clinicians are told to check the risk of abuse before prescribing.[6] They also monitor for signs of abuse while you take the medicine.
If you are coming off ADHD meds, don't guess based on looks or online advice. "Adderall eyes" is an informal, nonmedical term people use to describe dilated pupils or a glassy-eyed look, but appearance alone cannot show if you are withdrawing, using medication, or misusing it. Withdrawal symptoms are internal and include fatigue, depressed mood, sleep changes, increased appetite, vivid dreams, and changes in movement or energy levels.[2] See our FAQ for more on why appearance-based conclusions can mislead.
Wondering if it is okay to skip days of Adderall? Talk with your prescriber first. They know your history and can tell you what is safe. If you suspect misuse, read about the signs of prescription stimulant misuse.
Questions to Ask Your Prescriber
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How the Experience Can Differ by Substance
Not everyone goes through stimulant withdrawal the same way. The substance, amount, and length of use all matter. Bodies react differently, so no one can predict an exact day-by-day schedule for you. But knowing the broad phases helps you know what to expect.
Effects wear off
As the drug leaves your body, energy and mood may drop. Early changes often start here.
Symptoms evolve
Fatigue, sleep issues, and cravings may get stronger or change. You might need more support now.
Gradual easing
Symptoms often fade slowly. Some people still feel effects later. Follow-up care with a doctor is key.
This timeline is for information only. It is not a detox plan.
Prescription Stimulants (e.g., Adderall)
Your experience may differ if you take prescribed amphetamines like Adderall for ADHD. FDA labeling warns that withdrawal symptoms may occur after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction following prolonged use.[3] These symptoms can include feeling down or depressed, extreme tiredness, vivid and unpleasant dreams, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, increased appetite, and slowed movement or agitation.[6]
There is no single, dependable schedule for when these symptoms begin or end. Because individual timing varies widely, talk with your doctor before changing your dose. Never stop taking prescribed medication suddenly without talking to your prescriber first.
Cocaine and Methamphetamine
However, the intensity and duration can vary based on the specific substance and pattern of use.
Cocaine withdrawal often involves strong cravings, depressed mood that may swing to anxiety or agitation, constant tiredness, difficulty concentrating, physical pain like headaches, increased appetite, and trouble sleeping.[4]
Methamphetamine withdrawal shares many of these features, including fatigue, depression, and increased appetite. Some people also experience intense cravings and agitation. Like other stimulants, symptoms can vary widely from person to person.
Symptoms after using nonmedical stimulants can be complicated by other substances mixed with the drug or existing health conditions.[1] If you are unsure what caused your symptoms or how to handle them safely, reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance.
Mood Changes and Immediate Safety
Low mood is a common part of stimulant withdrawal.[1] Some symptoms fade over time. But thoughts of suicide or self-harm are never something to wait out. Suicidality may increase as the drug wears off and during acute withdrawal. This is why clinical monitoring is important.[1]
If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now. You can also call or text 988.[7] The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.[7]
Stimulant overdose can involve serious signs. These include seizures, confusion, and heart attack or stroke.[6] If you see these signs, do not wait. Call 911 right away and stay with them.
Safety and Support Self-Check
This self-check is for information only and isn't a diagnosis. A score cannot rule out danger.
When to Seek Medical Help and What to Do Next
Knowing when to seek medical help for stimulant withdrawal can feel confusing. Some symptoms are emergencies. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now if you see danger signs. Other symptoms need a quick talk with a doctor. Do not wait for severe symptoms to pass on their own.
If you have a seizure, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever or a racing heart, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now.[6] Also call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now if you have chest pain, trouble breathing, severe agitation, or signs of an overdose.[6] If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now, and call or text 988.[7]
For symptoms that are not emergencies, contact a prescriber, primary-care clinician, or addiction-treatment professional soon. They can check your situation and help make a plan. There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating stimulant use disorder.[8] But professionals can offer other support and check for other health issues.
- Check for danger signs. If you have a seizure, severe confusion, hallucinations, a high fever, a racing heart, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe agitation, or signs of an overdose, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now.[6] If you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now, and call or text 988.[7]
- Contact a clinician. For non-emergency concerns, reach out to a prescriber, primary-care clinician, or addiction-treatment professional promptly.
- Explain the situation. Tell them which substance was involved, whether it was prescribed or used nonmedically, when use changed, any other substances used, and current mood or physical symptoms.
- Agree on next steps. Discuss follow-up plans and who to contact if symptoms worsen.
Support for stimulant withdrawal often involves talking openly with healthcare providers. A supporter can help make calls or attend appointments but should not direct medication changes. Always talk with the prescriber before starting, stopping or changing a medication. If you need guidance on how to start this conversation, read our guide on asking a doctor for help.
What to Share When You Ask for Help
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Treatment and Support Options
Recovery from stimulant use often involves more than stopping the drug. You may need support to manage cravings, rebuild routines, and stay safe. There is no single path that fits everyone. Here are common routes to compare.
| Route | What it may help with | What to ask | Suitable for emergencies? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescriber or Primary Care | Managing health effects, reviewing medications, and planning next steps. | "Can we discuss my stimulant use and what support is available?" | No. See note below. |
| More Structured Care (e.g., intensive outpatient or residential) | Higher levels of support, monitoring, and structured daily schedules. | "What level of care do you recommend for me right now?" | No. See note below. |
| Peer or Community Support | Connection with others who understand recovery, reducing isolation. | "Is there a group nearby or online I can try?" | No. See note below. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when you stop taking stimulants?
Stopping stimulants can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, low mood, changes in sleep or appetite, and strong cravings.[9] Not everyone experiences the same symptoms or timing. While formal guidelines describe specific clusters of symptoms, only a clinician can assess your individual situation.
What does coming off ADHD meds feel like?
The experience varies by person. FDA labeling notes that abrupt discontinuation or significant dose reduction after prolonged use can trigger withdrawal reactions.[9] These may include depression, fatigue, vivid unpleasant dreams, insomnia or oversleeping, increased appetite, and slowed or agitated movement.[9] Always talk to your prescribing clinician before changing your dose or stopping medication.
Is Adderall hard to get off?
There is no single answer because prescribed use, nonmedical use, duration and personal health all differ. Physical dependence is a state of physical adaptation that manifests as a withdrawal syndrome when the substance is stopped abruptly or reduced rapidly.[10] Discuss any concerns about stopping with a clinician who knows your history.
Are “Adderall eyes” a sign of withdrawal?
“Adderall eyes” is an informal term people use online to describe dilated pupils or a wide-eyed, intense stare often associated with stimulant use. It is not a clinical diagnosis. Eye appearance alone cannot prove whether someone is withdrawing from medication, using it improperly, or simply reacting to light or stress. If you notice changes in the eyes along with physical or mood symptoms, share the full picture with a clinician. Avoid relying on social media labels to judge what is happening physically.
Is it okay to skip days of Adderall?
Do not create a new medication schedule based on internet advice. FDA guidance for prescription amphetamines is to take the medication exactly as prescribed.[6] If you have questions about missed doses or want to try skipping days, ask your prescriber first. Tell them if symptoms or side effects are prompting this question so they can adjust your plan safely.
Can stimulant withdrawal affect mood or cause thoughts of self-harm?
Mood changes are common during stimulant withdrawal and can include depression and dysphoria.[9] If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide or self-harm, do not wait for them to pass. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now, or call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.[11]
What support is available during stimulant withdrawal?
Support options include working with your prescriber, accessing specialized treatment services and joining peer support groups. SAMHSA’s National Helpline offers free, confidential treatment referral and information 24 hours a day in English and Spanish.[12] They can help connect you with local resources that fit your specific needs.
