Synthetic Drugs Withdrawal

Stopping synthetic drugs after regular use can trigger a range of uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

This page explores the withdrawal process associated with various synthetic substances, including common symptoms, what to expect during different stages, and effective approaches to streamline detoxification. We’ll also examine why withdrawal occurs, how the brain and body respond during this challenging period, and practical strategies for managing symptoms while setting the stage for lasting recovery.

What Are Synthetic Drugs?

Synthetic drugs are man-made substances created in labs rather than derived from natural sources. These include:

• Prescription medications like benzodiazepines and stimulants.
• Synthetic cannabinoids (K2/spice).
• Synthetic cathinones (bath salts).
• NPS (novel psychoactive substances).

Unlike traditional drugs, synthetic varieties often have unpredictable effects due to constantly changing chemical formulations designed to circumvent legal restrictions.

Why Withdrawal Happens

When someone uses synthetic drugs, their brain adapts to the presence of these chemicals. The brain adjusts and maintains balance by changing its natural chemistry. When drug use suddenly stops, these adaptations remain temporarily, creating an imbalance in brain function. This neurochemical disruption manifests as withdrawal symptoms.

The duration and presentation of withdrawal depend on factors that include:

• Type of synthetic drug used.
• Duration of drug use.
• Dosage consumed.
• Individual health factors.
• Method of discontinuation (tapering vs. cold turkey).
• Presence of polysubstance use.

Common Withdrawal Symptoms from Synthetic Drugs

Withdrawal symptoms vary widely depending on the specific synthetic substance. That said, certain patterns emerge across different drug categories.

1) Synthetic stimulants (bath salts, flakka)

• Extreme fatigue and exhaustion.
• Intense cravings for the drug.
• Depression and anxiety.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Increased appetite.
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia followed by hypersomnia).
• Paranoia or psychosis in severe cases.

2) Synthetic cannabinoids (K2, spice)

• Irritability and mood swings.
• Headaches.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Night sweats.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Tremors.
• Intense drug cravings.
• Seizures in severe cases.

3) Synthetic opioids (fentanyl analogs, U-47700)

• Muscle aches and pain.
• Runny nose and watery eyes.
• Gastrointestinal distress (vomiting and diarrhea).
• Cold flashes and goosebumps.
• Restless legs.
• Bone and joint pain.
• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
• Intense cravings.

4) Synthetic benzos (etizolam, clonazolam)

• Anxiety and panic attacks.
• Insomnia.
• Increased sensitivity to light and sound.
• Tremors.
• Muscle spasms.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Heart palpitations.
• Life-threatening seizures.

Synthetic Drug Withdrawal Timeline

The withdrawal process follows a general pattern, although timing varies based on the synthetic drug of abuse and individual factors.

Early withdrawal (first 24 to 72 hours)

During the initial phase of synthetic drug withdrawal, physical symptoms dominate as the body adjusts to the absence of the substance. For stimulants, this period may involve extreme fatigue, increased appetite, and mood disturbances. For synthetic depressants like benzo analogs, anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness emerge. Synthetic opioid withdrawal is characterized by flu-like symptoms that intensify over the first days of detox.

Acute withdrawal (days 3 to 14)

Symptoms peak in intensity during this phase. Physical discomfort may be pronounced, and psychological symptoms often intensify. Cravings generally reach their highest point during this period. For many synthetic drugs, this is when the risk of complications is greatest, especially with depressant substances, where seizures or severe psychological symptoms may present.

Post-acute withdrawal (weeks to months)

After acute symptoms subside, many people experience persistent symptoms lasting for extended periods. These may include:

• Mood fluctuations.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Cognitive difficulties, like brain fog.
• Energy fluctuations.
• Drug cravings that come in waves.
• Heightened sensitivity to stress.

This extended withdrawal phase, known as PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome), can last weeks to months, depending on the substance and duration of use.

Supervised Medical Detoxification: The Safest Approach

Medical detoxification is strongly recommended due to the potential severity and unpredictability of synthetic drug withdrawal. Medical detox provides:

Professional monitoring

Healthcare providers track vital signs and withdrawal symptoms, intervening if dangerous complications arise. This is particularly important with synthetic benzos and other CNS depressants, where seizures pose a serious risk.

Medication-assisted treatment

Doctors may prescribe medications to ease the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. These might include:

• Non-addictive sleep aids for insomnia.
• Anti-anxiety medications.
• Anti-seizure medications.
• Blood pressure medications for cardiovascular symptoms.
• OTC remedies for physical discomfort.

Tapering schedules

Healthcare providers often recommend gradually reducing dosage over time rather than abrupt discontinuation. This controlled approach helps minimize withdrawal intensity and mitigates health risks.

Nutritional support

Proper nutrition and hydration play central roles in the detox process. Medical detoxification programs typically provide nutritional guidance and supplements to address deficiencies common among those who use synthetic drugs.

The Dangers of Cold Turkey Withdrawal from Synthetic Drugs

Attempting to stop synthetic drugs suddenly without medical supervision can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Risks include:

• Seizures (particularly with synthetic benzos).
• Severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.
• Cardiac complications from blood pressure spikes.
• Profound depression with suicidal thoughts.
• Psychosis or severe dissociative states.
• Heightened risk of relapse due to intense discomfort.

These risks can be alleviated with medical supervision. Abruptly discontinuing the use of synthetic drugs is never advisable, and it could be deadly.

Psychological Aspects of Drug Withdrawal

The psychological aspect of synthetic drug withdrawal can raise pressing challenges. Many people initially turn to these substances to cope with underlying issues like trauma, anxiety, depression, or chronic stress. When the drug is removed, these problems tend to resurface, sometimes with increased intensity.

Common psychological roadblocks encountered during withdrawal include:

• Anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure).
• Emotional numbness or overpowering emotions.
• Identity confusion after extended periods of drug use.
• Social anxiety and difficulty connecting with others.
• Trouble managing stress without chemical assistance.
• Severe cravings triggered by environmental cues.

Addressing these concerns is integral to successful recovery. Professional counseling, peer support groups, and evidence-based therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) can provide invaluable tools for confronting these challenges.

Self-Care Strategies During Withdrawal

Self-care practices can complement medical treatment during withdrawal from synthetic drugs. This might include:

• Physical activity – Light exercise stimulates natural endorphin production, potentially easing withdrawal discomfort. Walking, gentle yoga, or swimming can be especially beneficial.
• Hydration and nutrition – Staying hydrated and eating regular, nutritious meals helps the body heal and can reduce the intensity of specific withdrawal symptoms.
• Sleep hygiene – Creating a comfortable sleep environment and establishing consistent sleep routines can help address the sleep disturbances common during withdrawal.
• Stress management – Simple stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation can help manage anxiety during withdrawal.
• Social support – Connecting with friends, family members, or support groups provides emotional encouragement during this tough time.

Recovery After Detox from Synthetic Drugs

Detox is only the first step in overcoming dependence on synthetic drugs. Once the acute withdrawal phase ends, continued support and treatment dramatically improve long-term outcomes. Effective approaches may include:

• Inpatient or outpatient rehab – Structured treatment programs provide therapy, education, and skill-building to address the underlying causes of substance use and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
• Individual counseling – Working one-on-one with a therapist helps process personal issues related to drug use and build personalized recovery strategies.
• Support groups ­– Peer-based groups offer empathy, accountability, and practical advice from others undergoing similar experiences.
• Medication management – Some people find that ongoing medication treatment helps manage cravings or address co-occurring mental health conditions.
• Lifestyle modifications – Creating healthier daily routines, discovering new interests, and building a supportive social network all contribute to sustainable recovery.

Get Help with Synthetic Drug Abuse at Anchored Recovery Community

If you have been misusing any type of synthetic drug, we can help you recalibrate your life at Anchored Recovery Community.

After detoxing from synthetic drugs, you can engage in treatment at an appropriate level of intensity, including PHPs (partial hospitalization programs) and IOPs (intensive outpatient programs).

Every addiction to synthetic drugs is unique, so all our treatment plans are personalized. Therapies include:

• MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
• Counseling
• Motivational therapy
• Talk therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic treatment
• Group therapy
• Aftercare planning

Kickstart your recovery from synthetic drug abuse by calling (844) 429-5554.