Aspects of the invention include methods of treating withdrawal syndrome by applying a transdermal delivery device containing a dexmedetomidine composition formulated to deliver a non-sedative amount of dexmedetomidine to a subject diagnosed as having withdrawal syndrome. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, a transdermal delivery device having a dexmedetomidine composition is applied to a subject and is maintained in contact with the subject in a manner sufficient to deliver a non-sedative amount of dexmedetomidine to treat withdrawal syndrome in the subject. Also provided are transdermal delivery devices configured to deliver a non-sedative amount of dexmedetomidine sufficient for practicing the subject methods, as well as kits containing the transdermal delivery devices.
