American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam

Opioid withdrawal symptoms typically peak between 36 to 72 hours after the last dose of the opioid. This timeframe aligns with the pharmacokinetics of common opioids, where the individual begins to experience withdrawal symptoms as the substance leaves their system. The peak symptoms can include anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, nausea, and diarrhea, among others.

In understanding this timeframe, it is essential to recognize that while initial symptoms may begin within 12 hours of cessation, it is during the 36 to 72 hour window that these symptoms intensify, making it a crucial period for management and support in the treatment of opioid dependence. After this peak, symptoms usually begin to gradually subside over a few days to weeks, depending on the individual and the specifics of their opioid use.