Medical Providers:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Ray Hamilton, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Last Updated: August 26, 2025
Xanax detox is a critical first step toward recovery from benzodiazepine dependence. But how long does it take? Detox timelines vary from person to person. How long does Xanax detox take depends on factors such as dosage, duration of use, and individual health.
Xanax is a fast-acting benzodiazepine doctors prescribe to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It enhances the effects of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. While effective in the short term, long-term or high-dose use of the drug can lead to Xanax dependence.
Xanax is prescribed to 3.3 to 3.6 million people per year (as of around 2022 vs. 2020)
Xanax detox refers to the process of clearing the drug from your system while managing Xanax withdrawal symptoms. Xanax detox is necessary because abruptly stopping the drug can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
As a fast-acting benzodiazepine, Xanax alters brain chemistry by enhancing calming neurotransmitters like GABA. Over time, your brain becomes dependent on the drug to function normally.
Because Xanax affects brain chemistry, suddenly stopping can trigger dangerous physical and psychological side effects. Stopping Xanax makes the brain struggle to rebalance. This triggers withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, insomnia, and in severe cases, seizures or psychosis.
A detox from Xanax helps the body safely eliminate the drug while managing symptoms under medical supervision. Without proper detox, the risk of relapse, medical complications, and emotional distress significantly increases. A detox program is the safest and most effective way to begin the recovery process from Xanax dependence.
Benzodiazepines like Xanax are known to cause severe withdrawal symptoms, especially if stopped abruptly. Some symptoms can be life-threatening, such as seizures or suicidal thoughts. That’s why benzodiazepine withdrawal without professional help is highly discouraged.
A medically supervised detox ensures that:
So, how long does it take to detox from Xanax? The timeline for substance use disorders varies, but medical detox usually occurs in three main stages:
What happens:
Common symptoms:
For short acting benzodiazepines like Xanax, withdrawal can begin within hours of the last dose.
What happens:
Common symptoms:
The acute phase typically lasts 5 to 14 days. It also depends on the person and whether there will be tapering..
What happens:
Common symptoms:
Detox is only the beginning of the recovery journey. After Xanax has left your system, it’s crucial to address the psychological side of addiction.
The Xanax detox process can be challenging. But knowing what to expect can ease anxiety and encourage a safer, more supported journey toward healing.
How long does detoxing off Xanax take? Every individual experiences detox differently. Several factors can affect the duration and severity of the addiction treatment.
Higher doses and substance use abuse increase the risk of severe withdrawal. Long-term Xanax users may require a longer tapering process.
Tapering down under medical supervision in a treatment center can significantly reduce symptoms. Suppose the detox process is done without the supervision of healthcare professionals. In that case, going cold turkey can cause dangerous side effects like seizures.
An individual’s age, weight, metabolism, liver function, and mental health history affect detox duration.
Mixing Xanax with alcohol or opioids increases the risk of complications during the detox process.
Xanax withdrawal can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms. Some symptoms may be severe. Recognizing the early warning signs is crucial for seeking timely help and preventing complications.
Physical symptoms:
Psychological symptoms:
Rebound anxiety is a temporary but intense return of anxiety symptoms that occurs after stopping or reducing a medication like Xanax. It is the body’s reaction to suddenly losing the calming effects of the drug, and as the brain struggles to regulate itself without it. Tapering slowly under medical supervision can help prevent it.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms after stopping Xanax, seek medical attention immediately.
It is essential to choose the right detox option based on your situation to avoid dangerous complications.
It is crucial never to attempt to detox from Xanax at home without speaking to a medical professional first.
Detoxing from Xanax can trigger intense and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms. A medically supervised detox uses certain drugs to stabilize symptoms, reduce anxiety, and prevent complications (like seizures) to support a safer recovery.
These medications play a crucial role in making the detox process more manageable and reducing the risk of serious complications. Always use these drugs under strict medical supervision to support a safer and more comfortable transition into long-term recovery.
How long does it take to completely detox from Xanax? The process typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks. But lingering symptoms can persist for months. The safest way to detox is under medical supervision, where trained professionals can help manage symptoms, reduce risks, and support your long-term recovery.
Don’t go through Xanax detox alone. A medically supervised program can help you or a loved one begin healing safely and effectively.
Are you or someone you love struggling with Xanax dependence? Our compassionate team at The Hope House is here to help.
Contact us today at (480-447-4252 or email us at contact@thehopehouse.com for a safe, medically supported detox program tailored to your needs. Begin your recovery journey now.
