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Alcohol withdrawal can happen when someone who has been drinking heavily or regularly reduces or stops drinking. Symptoms can range from uncomfortable to medically serious, and in some cases withdrawal can be dangerous.

Recovery Scotland is an information and referral support service. We do not provide detox, medical care or alcohol treatment directly. We can help you understand support pathways and, where appropriate, discuss providers who may be able to assess your needs.

If you may be physically dependent on alcohol, seek medical advice before stopping suddenly. In an emergency, call 999. For urgent non-emergency medical advice in Scotland, contact NHS 24 on 111 or speak with a GP.

What Are The Main Symptoms Of Alcohol Withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms vary depending on a person’s drinking pattern, physical health and level of dependence. Symptoms may include:

  • Sweating, shaking or hand tremors
  • Nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety, irritability or restlessness
  • Low mood or increased depression
  • Fast pulse, raised blood pressure or palpitations
  • Insomnia or disturbed sleep
  • Cravings for alcohol

Serious Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Some withdrawal symptoms can be severe and require urgent medical help. These may include:

  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations
  • Severe confusion or disorientation
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Very high blood pressure or heart rate
  • Extreme agitation or uncontrollable restlessness

If these symptoms occur, call 999 or seek urgent medical help.

How Long Do Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

Withdrawal timelines vary. Some symptoms can begin within hours of reducing or stopping alcohol, while others may develop over the next few days. The risk level depends on the person’s health, drinking history, previous withdrawal symptoms and whether other substances or medications are involved.

A qualified medical professional or treatment provider should assess the safest approach. Some people may need medically supervised detox rather than stopping alcohol alone.

Alcohol Detox And Treatment Options

Support options may include GP advice, NHS or community alcohol services, medically supervised detox, residential rehab, outpatient treatment, therapy, relapse prevention and aftercare. The right pathway depends on assessment and individual risk.

Recovery Scotland does not provide detox or clinical treatment directly. Where appropriate, we can help you understand available options and discuss suitable providers who can complete an assessment.

Getting Help For Alcohol Addiction

If alcohol use is affecting your health, relationships, work, finances or safety, it may be time to seek support. Asking for help does not mean you have to make every decision immediately; it can start with understanding the safest next step.

To discuss alcohol withdrawal support pathways, contact Recovery Scotland for confidential information and referral guidance.

What happens during alcohol detoxification?

When detoxing, you will experience a range of negative withdrawal symptoms. In rehab, you will be constantly monitored and may be given medication to help ease the withdrawal symptoms.

How do I convince a friend to get help?

You should never blame your friend or force them to get help. Instead, explain to them about the negative effect that their addiction is having on them and those around them and provide them with some information on the benefits of a rehab treatment plan. You may even want to show them some rehab treatment centres so they can physically see what rehab is like.

How do I achieve long term sobriety?

The most effective way to stay sober is through rehab treatment for alcohol, followed by an aftercare plan that focuses on preventing relapse.

John Gillen - Director & Author at Nova Recovery

John Gillen - Author - Last updated: June 17, 2026

John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy. His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases. The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists. Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.

Dr Stacey Vettraino

Dr Stacey Vettraino (General Practitioner) - Clinical Reviewer - Last reviewed: October 30, 2023

Dr Stacey Vettraino has been a GP for over 15 years and has been involved in GP management for 7 of these. Over the last few years, Dr Vettraino has worked towards a portfolio career, working as a GP in various parts of Scotland and within the private sector – including Bupa as a private GP, Health Assessments, and Menopause Clinics. She has had a longstanding interest in psychiatry and has previously held a post in Old Age Psychiatry post-GP training focusing on dementia. Her interest in addictions has steadily grown from work as a GP and Dr Vettraino is now excited and privileged to be part of addiction treatment.