Alcohol slows the brain. When someone drinks heavily every day, the brain speeds itself up to compensate. If alcohol is suddenly removed, the brain stays in 'overdrive' — this is withdrawal.
Signs of withdrawal
- Tremors, sweating, fast heartbeat, anxiety — within hours
- Poor sleep, nausea, irritability
- Fits — usually 6–48 hours after the last drink
- Confusion, seeing things, severe shaking (delirium tremens) — an emergency
The safe way
A doctor assesses how much and how long you have been drinking, then prescribes medicines for a few days that keep withdrawal calm, plus vitamin B1 to protect the brain. Most people can do this at home with family support; admission is needed only for high-risk cases.
After detox
Detox is only the first step. Anti-craving medicines and counselling over the next months are what prevent relapse. Never give any 'nasha chhudane ki dawa' secretly in food — it can be dangerous.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop drinking at home?
Many people can, but only with a doctor's plan and medicines for withdrawal. People with past fits, delirium or other illness may need admission.
How long does withdrawal last?
Physical withdrawal usually settles within about a week with treatment; sleep and cravings can take longer.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- Alcohol-use disorders: diagnosis, assessment and management of harmful drinking and alcohol dependence (CG115). NICE, UK, 2011.
- Alcohol — fact sheet. World Health Organization.
- mhGAP Intervention Guide for mental, neurological and substance use disorders in non-specialized health settings, version 2.0. World Health Organization, 2016.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
Related articles
Related guides
Need personal advice? Book a confidential consultation.