Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms: Detox Timeline and Treatment 

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid used to treat severe pain. This prescription drug is given only to patients whose pain does not respond to milder painkillers. It is not recommended for long-term use as one can easily form a habit and find it hard to stop their fentanyl use. However, despite the warnings, some people are still able to obtain the drug from those who sell it illegally. This results in an unregulated use of fentanyl, which could cause an overdose, dependence, or addiction.

When one starts to become dependent on fentanyl use, they would find it hard to stop taking the drug. One would experience withdrawal symptoms the moment they stop taking fentanyl. Withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, so if you or your loved one is struggling with fentanyl use disorder, you may find this guide on fentanyl withdrawal symptoms functional.

What Is Fentanyl Withdrawal?

Just like other forms of opioid withdrawal, fentanyl withdrawal occurs when a person who has fentanyl dependence reduces or stops their intake. When a person is already dependent on the drug, their body has already adapted to its presence. Hence, when they discontinue their opioid use, it would lead to the onset of withdrawal symptoms. What happens during withdrawal is that the body struggles to regain its balance without the presence of the drug. Fentanyl withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable. The severity of withdrawal symptoms can also vary in duration and intensity depending on the person’s health and level of fentanyl dependence.

Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal

As mentioned, the symptoms of withdrawal can vary from one person to another. Symptoms typically show as soon as the first 12 hours of their last dose. Its symptoms are also similar to symptoms of opioid withdrawal. The physical symptoms include but are not limited to:

• teary eyes
• runny nose
• chills
• fever
• sweating
• stomach cramps
• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhoea
• muscle or bone pain
• weakness

One may also experience psychological symptoms like anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and intense craving for fentanyl. 

Fentanyl Detox and Withdrawal Timeline  

When asked about the duration of fentanyl withdrawal, there is no specific answer to this. The fentanyl withdrawal timeline can vary from one person to another. The timeline of fentanyl withdrawal can be influenced by various factors, which include the amount of drug used, the average daily dose, and the length and frequency of use. Taking any other concurrent drugs, opioids, or medication as you use fentanyl could also affect the duration and even the severity of withdrawal. 

An individual starts to experience withdrawal symptoms within 6 to 12 hours after the last dose. For some, it could be just a few hours from the previous intake. This is when the initial symptoms, like muscle pains and anxiety, start to show. On the 3rd to 5th day after the last dose, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms begin to peak. You could experience diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. One would still feel some discomfort, but the symptoms will gradually subside on days 6 to 10. From 2 weeks or even months from your last dosage, the withdrawal symptoms and cravings will continue. This is when you will feel anxiety and other psychological symptoms that will require appropriate support and treatment. Medical detox for fentanyl withdrawal is beneficial during this phase.

Why It’s Crucial to Detox for Fentanyl with Medical Help

A detox programme is the process of eliminating fentanyl and other harmful toxins from the body. This is a phase when you start to experience withdrawal. The withdrawal process can be uncomfortable, so to ensure that detoxification is done safely and effectively, it is recommended to undergo a medically supervised detox. 

A medically supervised detox involves 24/7 monitoring and support from medical professionals and nurses. They can provide you with support to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and monitor your progress round-the-clock. A medical detox programme is also part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their assessment of your condition and needs. This approach makes medical-assisted treatment crucial as it helps in reducing the possible risk or complications and ensures long-term recovery post-rehab.

Treatment Options for Fentanyl Withdrawal 

Every person has a different experience when it comes to withdrawal. Withdrawal from opioids like fentanyl may seem uncomfortable, but when you get appropriate help and support, you can get through it safely. However, everyone should also note that there is no one-size-fits-all regarding treatment. Before you look into different fentanyl withdrawal treatment methods to ease the symptoms associated with fentanyl, make sure to consult a medical professional first.

How To Manage Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Although there are methods that can help manage withdrawal symptoms, it is difficult and dangerous to do it on your own. Some would only have mild symptoms, while some would experience excruciating pain throughout the process. It also makes you vulnerable to overdose because your body already has a low tolerance to the drug and is no longer used to it. Seek professional help to manage any symptoms of withdrawal from fentanyl safely. 

Medications to Manage Fentanyl Withdrawal 

Medication-assisted treatment helps manage withdrawal symptoms and supports the detoxification process. These medications include but are not limited to:

• Methadone:  A long-acting opioid receptor, Methadone helps ease symptoms and reduces cravings.
• Buprenorphine:  This partial opioid agonist helps alleviate symptoms and is ideal for long-term therapy.
• Lofexidine hydrochloride (Lucemyra):  This is the first and only non-opioid treatment approved by the FDA for the relief of opioid withdrawal symptoms. However, one should take note that this prescription drug only alleviates symptoms and should not be taken as a treatment for fentanyl use disorder.

These medications can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. It requires medical supervision and is often combined with therapies for long-term recovery.

Safely Detox from Fentanyl at Sivana Rehab

Understanding fentanyl withdrawal, its symptoms, and the detox process helps you better prepare for any challenges as you are seeking treatment. Remember that you do not have to go through life’s challenges alone. Sivana Rehab is a luxury treatment centre that offers addiction treatment programmes for those who are struggling with fentanyl addiction. Our team will provide the support you need to overcome such a tough time.