What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl abuse remains a pressing concern not just in our community in South Florida but throughout the United States. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that was originally designed for managing severe pain, particularly in cancer patients. Its potency, however, is up to 50 times stronger than heroin, significantly increases the risk of respiratory failure and death.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, are now the most common drugs involved in drug overdose deaths in the United States. In 2019, synthetic opioids were implicated in nearly 73% of all opioid-involved overdose deaths. Understanding the gravity of fentanyl abuse is vital in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis. This article will look at questions surrounding fentanyl addiction, fentanyl withdraw and how to get help.

. Are you or someone you love struggling with fentanyl addiction? The Archway Foundation is here to help. Call our patient advocates at (888) 491-2724 or visit our admissions page to learn more about our treatment programs.

How Long Does Fentanyl Withdraw Last?

Fentanyl withdrawal is notorious for its intensity, often serving as a formidable barrier to those seeking recovery. The brief duration of the high leads to a cyclical pattern of use and withdrawal. The severity of withdrawal symptoms can prompt individuals to relapse in search of immediate relief. The duration of fentanyl withdraw varies but generally peaks within the first 72 hours and may persist for several weeks.

Symptoms Of Fentanyl Withdraw

Seeking medical assistance and support from healthcare professionals during fentanyl withdrawal is crucial for managing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications.

Flu-Like Symptoms:

Onset: Within 12-30 hours after the last dose.
Duration: Can last for 3-5 days or longer.
Symptoms: Fever, chills, sweating, runny nose, watery eyes, and muscle aches.

Drug Craving:

Onset: Early in the withdrawal process, typically beginning 6 hours after the last dose.
Duration: May persist for an extended period, especially during the acute withdrawal phase.
Symptoms: Intense cravings for fentanyl and a strong desire to use the drug to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Distress:

Onset: Within 12-30 hours after cessation.
Duration: Symptoms may persist for up to a week.
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and loss of appetite.

Psychological Symptoms:

Onset: Generally within 12-30 hours.
Duration: May persist for several weeks to months.
Symptoms: Anxiety, irritability, agitation, restlessness, mood swings, depression, and insomnia.

Muscle and Joint Pain:

Onset: Typically within the first day of withdrawal.
Duration: Can last for several days to weeks.
Symptoms: Muscle cramps, joint pain, muscle weakness, and tremors.

Respiratory Issues:

Onset: May occur within the first day of withdrawal.
Duration: Symptoms may improve within a few days.
Symptoms: Shallow breathing, difficulty breathing, and yawning.

Medications should be prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals experienced in the management of opioid withdrawal. Additionally, medications may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes counseling, behavioral therapies, and social support to address the underlying causes of addiction

Clonidine: Clonidine is a medication commonly used to manage symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, sweating, and muscle aches during opioid withdrawal.

Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist medication that can be used to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and alleviating withdrawal symptoms without producing the same euphoric effects as full opioid agonists like fentanyl. It is often used as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder.

Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist medication that blocks the effects of opioids in the brain. It is used to prevent relapse in individuals who have already undergone detoxification from opioids, including fentanyl. By blocking opioid receptors, naltrexone reduces the reinforcing effects of opioids, making it less likely that an individual will experience a relapse.

Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist medication that can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings in individuals with opioid dependence. It helps stabilize opioid receptors in the brain, reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and allowing for a smoother transition to abstinence or maintenance treatment.

Fentanyl Withdraw Medications

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Addiction can be a terrifying thing to confront not just for the addict but for the entire family. Taking the first step and receiving professional help is a vital part to recovering from fentanyl addiction. Where there are many ways to get help, several levels of care are very effective during the initial stages of recovery, including:

Inpatient Treatment- In this level of care, the patient resides at the treatment facility around the clock, receiving comprehensive support and therapy. Typically lasting for about 30 days, inpatient treatment offers intensive care in a controlled environment.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)- PHP offers structured treatment during the day, lasting for up to 6 hours, while allowing patients to return to their homes or sober living facilities in the evenings. This level of care provides a balance between intensive treatment and independent living.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)- IOP serves as a transitional level of care, ideal for individuals moving from PHP or inpatient settings. Patients attend treatment sessions for a few hours per day, several days a week, allowing flexibility for managing work, school, or other commitments.

Outpatient & Aftercare- This level of care involves regular treatment sessions, typically once a week for a few hours. Outpatient and aftercare programs provide ongoing support and guidance as individuals continue their recovery journey beyond the initial stages.

Treating Fentanyl Addiction

Get Help For Fentanyl Addiction Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, seeking help is the first crucial step toward recovery. At The Archway Foundation Recovery Center, we offer tailored solutions to meet diverse needs. Whether you require full-time immersive treatment or part-time treatment with a structured sober living environment, our comprehensive programs cater to your unique journey. Our dedicated team led by our founder Peter Marinelli is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Don't navigate this journey alone—reach out to our treatment center for immediate help.

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