Shaking or tremors during alcohol withdrawal are among the most recognizable and distressing symptoms individuals face when they stop drinking. For those navigating recovery, or for families supporting a loved one through this process, understanding how long alcohol withdrawal shakes last is essential for managing expectations and ensuring safe care. 

This guide breaks down the timeline, causes, risks, and treatment strategies surrounding alcohol withdrawal shakes—also called tremors—and offers clarity grounded in clinical knowledge and real-world experience.

At Good Landing Recovery, we believe that informed recovery is empowered recovery. When individuals know what to expect, they can approach detox and healing with greater confidence and peace of mind.

What Are Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes?

Alcohol withdrawal shakes, sometimes referred to as tremors, are involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions that commonly affect the hands, arms, or other parts of the body. They typically occur when a person with alcohol dependence suddenly reduces or stops alcohol intake.

These tremors happen as the nervous system adjusts to the absence of alcohol, which has long acted as a depressant on the brain. Without alcohol’s numbing effects, the nervous system becomes overactive, resulting in shaking.

Common characteristics:

  • Begin within hours after last drink
  • Often most noticeable in the hands
  • Can be mild or intense
  • May be accompanied by anxiety, nausea, sweating, and irritability

Timeline: How Long Do Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes Last?

The duration of alcohol withdrawal shakes varies from person to person, but a general timeline helps guide expectations:

1. Early Stage (6–12 hours after last drink):

  • Shakes often begin within 6 to 12 hours after the last alcoholic beverage.
  • This stage may also include symptoms like anxiety, headaches, and nausea.

2. Peak Stage (24–72 hours):

  • Shakes usually peak during this period.
  • Tremors may intensify and other symptoms like insomnia, sweating, and elevated heart rate can also peak.

3. Improvement Stage (3–7 days):

  • In most cases, shakes begin to lessen after 3 to 5 days.
  • However, some individuals may continue to experience mild tremors beyond a week, especially if alcohol use was heavy or prolonged.

Important: Shakes that persist beyond 7 days could indicate post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) or another medical issue, which requires professional evaluation.

What Causes Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes?

The central nervous system adapts to regular alcohol use by reducing the activity of neurotransmitters that calm the brain, such as GABA. When alcohol use is suddenly stopped, the body is left in a hyperexcited state without its usual sedative.

This imbalance results in overstimulation of nerves and muscles, producing symptoms like:

  • Shaking
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Heightened anxiety
  • Seizures in severe cases

Shakes are especially common in individuals who:

  • Have been drinking heavily for a prolonged period
  • Have experienced withdrawal symptoms in the past
  • Have co-occurring health or mental health issues

Are Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes Dangerous?

While shakes themselves are not life-threatening, they can be a warning sign of more serious withdrawal symptoms such as:

  • Delirium tremens (DTs): A severe and potentially fatal form of alcohol withdrawal involving hallucinations, confusion, and seizures.
  • Seizures: May occur within 6–48 hours in individuals with severe dependence.

That’s why medical supervision during detox is strongly recommended. At Good Landing Recovery, our medically supported detox services monitor symptoms closely and intervene early when necessary.

Managing and Treating Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes

Managing alcohol withdrawal tremors often requires a combination of medical care, rest, hydration, and nutritional support.

Medical Intervention:

  • Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to reduce central nervous system overactivity.
  • Anti-seizure medications may also be used in high-risk cases.

Supportive Strategies:

  • Hydration and nutrition: Dehydration and vitamin deficiencies can worsen symptoms. Replenishing electrolytes and nutrients (especially B vitamins and magnesium) is essential.
  • Rest and low-stimulation environment: Calm surroundings reduce stress and help stabilize the nervous system.
  • Professional monitoring: Continuous observation ensures that symptoms don’t progress into severe complications.

Detox should always be performed under supervision—never attempt to detox from alcohol alone.

What Else to Expect During Alcohol Withdrawal

Shakes are just one symptom of alcohol withdrawal. Others may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Insomnia

The presence and intensity of symptoms depend on:

  • Duration and frequency of alcohol use
  • Age and general health
  • Presence of mental health disorders

Knowing the full picture helps families and individuals prepare for the recovery journey ahead.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes

For most people, alcohol withdrawal shakes go away within a week. However, chronic alcohol misuse can lead to long-term neurological issues:

  • Persistent hand tremors
  • Nerve damage (alcoholic neuropathy)
  • Impaired motor skills

These effects underscore the importance of ongoing care beyond detox. Detox is just the first step in a longer process of recovery, healing, and rebuilding.

At Good Landing Recovery, we equip clients with ongoing support through therapy, faith-based community, and long-term relapse prevention tools.

When to Seek Help

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Shakes are accompanied by confusion or hallucinations
  • Seizures occur
  • Symptoms worsen after 72 hours

Even if symptoms seem manageable, supervised detox is always the safest option. Many complications from alcohol withdrawal are preventable with the right care.

How Good Landing Recovery Can Help

At Good Landing Recovery, we understand the courage it takes to begin recovery. Our team provides medically supervised detox in a compassionate, faith-based environment that meets individuals where they are. We guide clients through withdrawal safely, address underlying issues, and provide tools for long-term success.

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or supporting a loved one, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way—from detox to lasting transformation.

Alcohol Withdrawal Shakes and the Path to Healing

Alcohol withdrawal shakes are a common and challenging part of early sobriety. While the symptoms are uncomfortable—and can even be alarming—they are manageable with the right support. Most people will see improvement within a few days, especially when detox is done under medical supervision.

If you or someone you care about is asking, “How long do alcohol withdrawal shakes last?” — know that you are not alone. Recovery is possible, and help is available.

Contact Good Landing Recovery today to learn more about our detox services and how we can help you start your journey toward healing, sobriety, and purpose.