Answers Book · The morning after

How Long Does a Hangover Last?

The 10-second answer

A hangover often lasts less than a day, but it can last 24 hours or longer. Symptoms peak when blood alcohol nears zero.

The simple answer

Most hangovers last less than a day. They often start hours after drinking, as the alcohol in your blood drops. You may feel worst when it gets close to zero. Some hangovers last 24 hours or longer. If yours lasts much longer or feels much worse, talk to a doctor.

Myth vs Fact

Myth

If you sleep in late enough, you'll skip the hangover.

Fact

NIH says symptoms peak when blood alcohol returns to about zero, so you often feel it after you wake up, not before.

The science

  1. Cleveland ClinicHangovers usually begin 6 to 8 hours after drinking, as blood alcohol drops.
  2. NIHSymptoms peak when blood alcohol is about zero and can last 24 hours or longer.
  3. NIHPeople are so different that it's hard to predict how many drinks will cause a hangover.
  4. Cleveland ClinicSome hangover symptoms also happen in alcohol withdrawal, but withdrawal symptoms are usually more severe and last longer. If that sounds like you, talk to a healthcare provider or call SAMHSA's line below.

Medical sources

How often people ask: High

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Alcohol in your bodyHow Long Until Alcohol Is Out of Your System?The morning afterHow Can I Recover Quickly After Drinking Too Much?
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This page is general information, not medical advice. Sources are linked above. If you're worried about yourself or someone else, contact a healthcare provider or call 911.
Last checked: September 25, 2026