• Mental Health
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • ADHD
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
  • Mental Health
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • ADHD
    • Addiction
      • What is Addiction?
      • What Are Behavioral Addictions?
      • Addiction vs Dependence
      • Addiction Myths vs Facts
      • Addiction Statistics
      • How to Help a Friend
      • Find an Addiction Specialist
    • Eating Disorders
    • Personality Disorders
      • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
        • OCD vs. OCPD
    • Trauma
      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
        • PTSD & COVID-19
      • Childhood Trauma
    • Sexual Disorders
      • Anorgasmia
      • Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD)
      • Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)
      • Premature Ejaculation (PE)
      • Delayed Ejaculation
    • Schizophrenia
  • Therapy Techniques
    • Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy
      • Online Therapy for Teens
      • Best LGBTQ Online Therapy
      • Best Online Therapy for Insurance
    • Psychotherapy
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
      • CBT for Anxiety
      • CBT for Social Anxiety
      • CBT for Panic Disorder
      • CBT for Insomnia
      • CBT Online
    • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
      • DBT for Teens
    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
      • EMDR for PTSD
      • EMDR for Anxiety
      • EMDR Online
    • Art Therapy
    • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
    • Exposure and Response Prevention
    • Group Therapy
    • Hypnotherapy
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Person Centered Therapy
    • Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy
    • Sex Therapy
  • Types of Therapists
    • Faith-Based & Christian Counselors
    • Life Coaching
    • Family Therapist
      • Child & Teen Counseling
    • Marriage & Couples Counselors
      • Premarital Counseling
    • Psychiatrist
      • Psychology vs. Psychiatry
    • Psychotherapist
    • Grief Counselors
    • Online Therapists
  • Starting Therapy FAQ
    • Does Therapy Work?
      • How to Find a Therapist
      • Helping a Friend or Loved One
    • How to Choose a Therapist
      • Finding a Black Therapist
      • Finding a Latinx Therapist
      • Finding an LGBTQ-Friendly Therapist
      • Finding a Therapist as a Young Adult
      • Finding an Online Therapist
    • Preparing for Your First Session
    • Types of Mental Health Professionals
    • Mental Health Insurance
      • HSAs for Therapy
      • Sliding Scale Therapy Fees
    • Mental Health in the Workplace
      • Asking for a Mental Health Day
      • Taking Time Off for Mental Health
    • Top Mental Health Organizations
      • Mental Health Resources Outside the U.S.
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Editorial Policy
    • Advertising Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Write for Us
    • Join the Directory
    • Careers
  • Therapist Directory
    • Find a Therapist
    • Join the Directory
    • Directory Login
Skip to content

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS): Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Published: February 6, 2023 Updated: March 22, 2023
Published: 02/06/2023 Updated: 03/22/2023
Headshot of Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC
Written by:

Matt Glowiak

PhD, LCPC
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?What Is PAWS?
  • Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal SyndromeCommon Symptoms
  • Substance-Specific PAWS SymptomsSubstance-Specific Symptoms
  • Risk Factors & Causes of PAWSRisk Factors
  • Danger of Relapse With PAWSRelapse With PAWS
  • How to Avoid & Prevent PAWSHow to Prevent PAWS
  • How to Cope With Post-Acute Withdrawal SyndromeHow to Cope With PAWS
  • When to Seek Professional HelpWhen to Seek Help
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) InfographicsInfographics
Headshot of Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC
Written by:

Matt Glowiak

PhD, LCPC
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is marked by persistent impairments that result after one abstains from certain substances.1 What is unique about this condition is that withdrawal symptoms last significantly longer than the traditional half-life of a given substance. PAWS is met with controversy, as there is limited research supporting its existence.2

Find A Place To Rehab (or call on behalf of a loved one)

Call (855) 236-2993 Free & Confidential

Get help at a comfortable rehab center. Most rehab centers take insurance. You will be able to ask questions, book facility tours, and request information on your insurance benefits during your call.

This is a paid advertisement. Calls are distributed to participating rehab centers in a round-robin format.

Button

What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?

PAWS is an acronym commonly used to refer to post-acute withdrawal syndrome, prolonged withdrawal syndrome, or protracted withdrawal symptoms.1 The key feature of this condition is that symptoms experienced occur over an extended duration that is atypical for the typical timeline of any given substance.

Often, withdrawal symptoms can resolve in a matter of days or weeks. With PAWS, withdrawal persists for much longer.1 Accordingly, PAWS is not typically diagnosed until prolonged symptoms are experienced for a duration of months or even longer.3 Additionally, it can be difficult to differentiate this condition from many mood and anxiety disorders, as they may share similar characteristics.4 Therefore, PAWS may not be readily apparent in the presence of co-occurring disorders.

Controversies Around PAWS

Though PAWS may occur after detoxifying from a variety of psychoactive substances, it most commonly occurs upon withdrawing from alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids.5 According to the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), roughly 90% of individuals recovering from an opioid addiction and 75% of recovering alcoholics will experience PAWS at some level.1

What is interesting about this statistic–which conflicts with others claiming the condition does not exist–is that even with these numbers, the precise mechanism leading to PAWS is still unknown, though changes in neurotransmitter activity due to prolonged drug use could potentially be a predisposing factor.1 If people are experiencing PAWS or anything similar, it is imperative that we call attention to and treat it accordingly.

Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

Symptoms of PAWS may appear intermittently, but are primarily emotional and psychological in nature, unlike the physical symptoms of acute withdrawal. Given that everyone’s physiology is different, individual experiences with PAWS vary. Further, every PAWS substance detox will be unique, but people can expect similar symptoms across them all.

Common symptoms of PAWS include:

  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Lack of motivation
  • Mental fatigue
  • Impulsivity
  • Apathy
  • Chronic pain
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability
  • Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
  • Interpersonal challenges
  • Increased sensitivity to stress

Substance-Specific PAWS Symptoms

Beyond symptoms generally common to PAWS, each substance comes with its own unique effects. Again, people can experience PAWS from alcohol and other substances. Variability in symptoms stems from the addiction potential of the substance, among other factors.

Substances that may cause severe PAWS symptoms include:

Marijuana

Individuals who abuse marijuana or suffer from marijuana addiction can experience PAWS. Although withdrawal symptoms and severity are oftentimes less intense than with other substances of abuse, post-acute withdrawal is real.

While traditional acute withdrawal typically lasts up to five days, with PAWS, it may last 45 or longer.6,7 There is a strong link between marijuana and anxiety symptoms, along with other corresponding impairments including poor sleep and appetite.5,8

Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is among the most addictive of all substances of abuse, which is why many people find themselves battling a meth addiction. Given the intensity of methamphetamine, many users who discontinue experience withdrawal—some of which is severe in symptomatology.

Generally, symptoms begin within one or two days of termination and last up to a month.9 With PAWS, symptoms resurface four to eight weeks after detox and may last months or an entire year.9 Within this time, symptoms may eb and flow. However, the experience is unpleasant.

Common symptoms include:

  • Anhedonia
  • Anxiety
  • Cognitive problems
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Hostility
  • Ineffective executive functions
  • Intense cravings
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep problems
  • Stress

Opioids

Perhaps the greatest link between PAWS and a substance is that of opioid use, especially opioid addiction. It is believed that some 90% of those in recovery will experience some PAWS symptomatology.1

With opioid use, one’s executive control can be affected. Executive control is housed in the prefrontal cortex, which is among the primary areas impacted by substance use and withdrawal symptoms. Accordingly, concentration and judgment may be significantly impacted.

Common symptoms include:6

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Irritability
  • Menstrual disruptions
  • Quicker breathing
  • Sleep problems
  • Weight gain

Cocaine

Like other substances, cocaine withdrawal typically is met with the most severe symptoms during the acute phase of detox.10 PAWS symptoms tend to rise and fall, sometimes abruptly, over the course of up to a year.

Common symptoms include:10

  • Anxiety
  • Chronic pain
  • Decreased libido
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Difficulty thinking
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Hostility
  • Insomnia
  • Low energy
  • Mood swings

Benzodiazepines

When discontinuing benzodiazepines that were taken as drugs of abuse or for medical treatment, those detoxing from these medications experience PAWS at a rate similar to that of alcohol.6

It is important to understand the phenomenon of symptom rebound, which occurs when previously subdued symptoms return. These include undesirable symptoms stemming from another condition which led to benzodiazepines use in the first place. Thus, individuals not only struggle with PAWS symptomatology, but also a return of previous symptoms. The combination is unpleasant and even painful.

Common symptoms here include:6

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Panic attacks
  • Tinnitus

Alcohol

PAWS resulting from alcohol withdrawal can result in a myriad of complications, many of which resemble typical alcohol and anxiety symptoms. Sleep disruption is also common. With PAWS, individuals may struggle to fall and stay asleep. This factor will contribute to compromised executive function and mood. In combination, recovery becomes more challenging.

Common symptoms include:6

  • Anxiety
  • Anger and aggression
  • Cognitive struggles
  • Compromised coordination
  • Depression
  • Dizziness
  • Increased pain
  • Irritability
  • Low energy
  • Lowered libido
  • Mild tremors
  • Mood swings
  • Sleep problems

Help For Reducing Drinking, Drying Out, And Staying Sober

Want to drink less? – Sunnyside helps you ease into mindful drinking at your own pace. Think lifestyle change, not a fad diet. Develop new daily routines, so you maintain your new habits for life. Take a 3 Minute Quiz.


Want a place to dry out and get help? – Call: (855) 236-2993. Free & Confidential

Get help breaking your addiction at a comfortable living facility. Treatment for alcohol, opioid, and heroin addiction. Rehab is often covered by insurance. To find out your insurance benefits call: (855) 236-2993.


Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Rehab.com and Sunnyside..

Risk Factors & Causes of PAWS

Regardless of the substance, it is important to recognize the concepts of dependence and tolerance developed with prolonged use. Even for those who adhere to the script for an opioid painkiller, tolerance forms. This means that the desired effect of the substance gradually decreases over time. With higher dosages, withdrawal symptoms can be more intense when the drug is eventually discontinued.

When one becomes dependent on a substance, the brain and nervous system adjust to accommodate the chemicals in the substance. People ultimately continue using just to “feel normal.” Removing the substance puts a strain on the body. Physiology becomes immediately compromised, and physiologic changes can occur, affecting blood pressure, heart function, emotions, and more.

Risk factors that can increase the chances of post-acute withdrawal syndrome include:6,7,11,12

  • Co-occurring psychiatric issues
  • Environmental conditions and stressors
  • Family history of addiction and dependence
  • Increase in alcohol consumption before cessation
  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Previous experiences with substance withdrawal
  • Lack of social support
  • The number of previous withdrawal episodes
  • Type of substance used

Danger of Relapse With PAWS

Given that PAWS is still a condition warranting further research, some consider it “an excuse for relapse.”2 There is a belief that for some people struggling with recovery, they will begin using again in an attempt to curb withdrawal. Other factors, such as heightened stress, may leave one vulnerable for relapse. Assuming that PAWS is a true phenomenon, which I believe it is, symptoms experienced here can cause a person to relapse.

How to Avoid & Prevent PAWS

The best means of preventing PAWS is to not abuse substances. However, more realistically, one may engage in an addiction-free lifestyle–that is, do not engage with highly addictive substances. Use alcohol and marijuana responsibly, preferably under the advice of a medical professional. If taking a prescribed medication that may lead to dependence, use only as directed by a prescribing physician.

Abstaining from substances of abuse may be done on one’s own, but likely requires social support if they are struggling to do so. If loved ones are using substances themselves, it is important to distance from them while leaning closer on other supports. If this is not something readily available, seeking professional support is highly recommended.

How to Cope With Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

PAWS is highly unpredictable. The duration, type, and severity of symptoms varies by person and substance. The biggest challenge is getting past the discomfort and not relapsing when symptoms arise.

Self-awareness is important here. When the onset of symptoms becomes noticeable, even if minimally, it is time to take immediate action. This may include enacting coping skills, utilizing support systems, or speaking with a professional. Withdrawal symptoms will pass. Relapse only serves to extend the process, further making it more difficult to maintain a recovery effort.

The following are tips to help you better manage PAWS symptoms: 

  • Practice self-care: An intentional and consistent self-care routine helps individuals remain balanced during difficult times. Rather than the bottom falling out when times get rough, this balance yields resilience, which keeps one on track.
  • Exercise regularly: Exercise is a great means of naturally flooding oneself with relaxing neurotransmitters and hormones. This can also enhance one’s physical health and self-esteem.
  • Start a journal: Writing one’s thoughts down is cathartic, as it adds an additional layer of processing in reflection. By delving deeper, one becomes more self-aware, which leads to wisdom.
  • Use relaxation techniques: Relaxation strategies, such as progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), activate the parasympathetic nervous systems, which calms the body. This lowers the stress response and allows people to retain their baseline.
  • Maintain proper sleep: Proper sleep is ideal as this provides sufficient time to engage in REM sleep (the important kind) and reset the system. Cell rejuvenation is most significant during this time.
  • Find a support group: Finding the right support group can make a significant difference. Here, individuals exchange stories, hold one another accountable, affirm each other, and share helpful resources.
  • Avoid caffeine: As a stimulant, caffeine agitates one’s physiology—potentially leading to a heightened stress response and difficulties relaxing. Minimizing or eliminating intake will further support all other relaxation strategies mentioned here and otherwise.
  • Focus on purpose: Without having purpose, people flounder as they have nothing to work toward. Finding meaning in something—regardless how small it may seem—may serve as a motivating force.
  • Avoid triggering stimuli: It is helpful to avoid stressful situations, abusive people, and negativity.
  • Seek professional help: Mental health professionals, particularly those specialized in substance use disorders, are specifically trained to assist with dependence, addiction, and withdrawal. They are there to ensure one has everything needed for a successful recovery.

When to Seek Professional Help

The sooner one seeks professional help and treatment for PAWS, the better. Addiction disorders are pervasive and intensify over time without intervention. Though PAWS results from prolonged post-detox withdrawal, symptoms may lead to relapse, further feeding the addiction cycle.

Treating PAWS alone can increase the risk of relapse. One must focus on a concerted, ongoing holistic recovery effort. Given that this process can be extensive, especially at first, help from a medical professional and social support can keep a person on track. In this case, many individuals opt for outpatient therapy, which may encompass therapy and medications to help manage adverse PAWS symptoms.

Therapy

The best therapeutic interventions are those that are as holistic as possible. They address impairments along the mind-body-spirit pathway, considering strengths and areas of improvement among the Eight Dimensions of Wellness (i.e., emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual).

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is oftentimes considered a frontline therapeutic approach, as the therapist and patient work together to find the meaning behind maladaptive beliefs and values that impair one’s perception and response to the world. Through a combination of exploration, processing, and behavioral experiments, patients can find relief.

Other common therapy options for PAWS include:

  • Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
  • Person-centered therapy (PCT)
  • Psychoanalysis
  • Reality therapy
  • Multimodal therapy

Medication

Although there is no medication designed to treat PAWS itself, some individuals benefit from prescriptions that treat specific symptoms, co-occurring mental health disorders, or pre-existing medical conditions. Medications should be monitored by a prescribing physician specialized in mental health and addiction disorders.

Some medications that are used may include

  • Anti-anxiety medications
  • Antidepressants
  • Acamprosate
  • Methadone
  • Buprenorphine

Final Thoughts

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a severe condition that people should not take lightly. Taking precautionary measures and reducing your drinking or drug use is crucial in preventing the need for emergency medical services. Seek help from a medical professional if you feel assistance is needed in cutting back on your use. If you already believe you or a loved one has PAWS, there is much that may be done to curb symptoms and reduce risk of relapse. It all begins with educating oneself and reaching out for help.

Additional Resources

Education is just the first step on our path to improved mental health and emotional wellness. To help our readers take the next step in their journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy may be compensated for marketing by the companies mentioned below.

Drinking Moderation

Sunnyside – Want to drink less? Sunnyside helps you ease into mindful drinking at your own pace. Think lifestyle change, not a fad diet. Develop new daily routines, so you maintain your new habits for life. Take a 3 Minute Quiz.

Find A Rehab Center (Free & Confidential) – Call (855) 236-2993

Get help breaking your addiction at a comfortable living facility. Treatment for alcohol, opioid, heroin, and behavioral addictions including eating disorders. Most rehab centers work with multiple insurers. To find out your benefits call: (855) 236-2993

Opioid Use Treatment

Bicycle Health – Offers medication-assisted treatment with Suboxone to help patients stop their opioid use. No office visits required. 95% of patients report no withdrawal symptoms at 7 days. See the doctor online. Most insurance is accepted. Visit Bicycle Health

Addiction Newsletter

A free newsletter from Choosing Therapy for those impacted by addiction and the important people in their life. Get encouragement, helpful tips, and the latest information. Sign Up

Talk Therapy

Online-Therapy – Online-Therapy.com provides a weekly live video session, unlimited text messaging, and self-guided activities like journaling. Starting at $64 per week, this is one of the most affordable options for CBT therapy. Try Online-Therapy

Choosing Therapy partners with leading mental health companies and is compensated for marketing by Rehab.com, Sunnyside, Online-Therapy, and Bicycle Health.

For Further Reading

  • 9 Best Sobriety Apps for 2021
  • Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
  • SAMHSA’s National Helpline
  • The Daily Pledge
  • NAMI

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) Infographics

What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?   Substance-Specific PAWS Symptoms   How to Cope With Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome When to Seek Professional Help

12 sources

Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS

  • T, B., & Umhau, J. C. (2020). Is Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome Real or Just an Excuse? Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/is-paws-real-or-another-relapse-excuse-4109902

  • Cumberland Heights. (2021). How long does PAWS last? Retrieved from https://www.cumberlandheights.org/blogs/how-long-does-paws-last/

  • Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome – Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital. (n.d.). UCLA Health. Retrieved from https://www.uclahealth.org/hospitals/resnick/patient-care/partial-hospitalization-and-intensive-outpatient-programs/adult-acute-partial-hospitalization-program/dual-diagnosis-intensive-outpatient-program/news-and-resources/post-acute-withdrawal-syndrome

  • Can You Die From Drug or Alcohol Withdrawals? (2022). American Addiction Centers. Retrieved from  https://americanaddictioncenters.org/withdrawal-timelines-treatments/risk-of-death

  • Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). (2022). American Addiction Centers. Retrieved from https://withdrawal.net/by-drug-type/post-acute-withdrawal/

  • Protracted Withdrawal. (2010) SAMHSA. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma10-4554.pdf.

  • Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings. (2009). Geneva: World Health Organization; 2009. 4, Withdrawal Management. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/ 

  • I Am Sober. (2021). Meth and post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Retrieved from https://iamsober.com/addictions/meth/paws/

  • St. Johns Recovery Place. (2023). Cocaine withdrawal signs, symptoms & detox timeline. Retrieved from https://www.sjrp.com/substance-abuse-treatment/drug-detox/cocaine/

  • Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment. (2015). SAMSHA. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma15-4131.pdf.

  • Patients & Families. (n.d.).  UW Health. Retrieved from https://patient.uwhealth.org/healthfacts.

Recent Articles

Weed Withdrawal Symptoms_ Timeline_ _ Prevention
Weed Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline, & Prevention
Marijuana use is common, with CDC estimates of at least 3 in 10 users experiencing a marijuana use disorder....
';
What Is Relapse Risk Factors, Treatment & How to Cope
What Is Relapse? Risk Factors, Treatment & How to Cope
A relapse happens when an individual fully returns to using or engaging in addictive behaviors after a period of...
';
Monument Review
Monument Review 2023: Cost, Pros & Cons, & Who It’s Right For
Monument is a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for those who want to cut back or quit drinking. The program...
';
Signs of a Relapse: How to Track the Stages of Relapse
Signs of a Relapse: How to Track the Stages of Relapse
Warning signs of an imminent or ongoing relapse vary depending on the individual and the substance or behavior. Signs...
';
Ria Health Review
Ria Health Review 2023: Cost, Pros & Cons, & Who It’s Right For
Ria Health is an online medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for those struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD). It earned...
';
Fentanyl Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments
Fentanyl Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments
Due to its potency and addictive qualities, abusing fentanyl can result in the development of a fentanyl addiction. Symptoms...
';
Headshot of Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC
Written by:

Matt Glowiak

PhD, LCPC
Headshot of Benjamin Troy, MD
Reviewed by:

Heidi Moawad

MD
  • What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?What Is PAWS?
  • Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal SyndromeCommon Symptoms
  • Substance-Specific PAWS SymptomsSubstance-Specific Symptoms
  • Risk Factors & Causes of PAWSRisk Factors
  • Danger of Relapse With PAWSRelapse With PAWS
  • How to Avoid & Prevent PAWSHow to Prevent PAWS
  • How to Cope With Post-Acute Withdrawal SyndromeHow to Cope With PAWS
  • When to Seek Professional HelpWhen to Seek Help
  • Final ThoughtsConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesResources
  • Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) InfographicsInfographics
If you are in need of immediate medical help:
Medical
Emergency
911
Suicide Hotline
800-273-8255
See more Crisis Hotlines
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Write for Us
  • Careers
  • Editorial Policy
  • Advertising Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • No Surprises Act
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
988
Click For More Crisis Hotlines
For immediate help call:
Medical Emergency:
911
Suicide Hotline:
811
See more Crisis Hotlines
here
logo
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.
Choosing Therapy Logo
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit Cookie Settings to provide controlled consent. Cookie settings ACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

We use cookies to facilitate website functionality. Also, we use third-party cookies to track your website behavior and target advertising. These cookies are stored in your browser only with your consent, and you have the choice of opting out.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non Necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Save & Accept