Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine, is commonly prescribed for severe pain relief, especially after surgery. However, due to its potency, fentanyl can quickly lead to dependence and addiction, making withdrawal a challenging process.
Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms can begin when someone addicted to fentanyl abruptly stops or attempts to taper off the drug. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle or bone pain
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Elevated body temperature
- Sweating
- Chills
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Nausea
- Exhaustion
- Muscle spasms
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Intense cravings
- Cognitive and memory problems
Fentanyl withdrawal often presents flu-like symptoms, and withdrawal can be highly uncomfortable due to the brain’s dependence on the drug’s effects.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Timeline
Withdrawal from fentanyl is not usually life-threatening but can be highly uncomfortable. The timeline generally progresses as follows:
- 6-12 Hours After Last Use: Mild symptoms such as muscle aches, anxiety, agitation, sweating, and headaches begin.
- 24-48 Hours After Last Use: Symptoms peak, often resembling a severe flu with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- 72 Hours After Last Use: The worst symptoms typically subside, but restless leg syndrome and muscle spasms may persist.
After the initial detox, some individuals may experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), which can last weeks or months. PAWS symptoms include irritability, depression, cognitive difficulties, insomnia, and persistent cravings.
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Can I Detox from Fentanyl Cold Turkey?
Detoxing from fentanyl without medical supervision is not recommended. The drug lowers respiratory rate, heart rate, and blood pressure, creating risks for those who attempt to quit cold turkey. Potential complications include dehydration, elevated sodium levels, and heart failure. Medical supervision minimizes risks and helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
What to Look for in a Fentanyl Detox Program
When seeking a detox program for fentanyl, look for a facility that provides:
- 24/7 Medical Supervision: Ensures safety and addresses withdrawal symptoms promptly.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Evaluates physical and mental health to develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: Uses approved medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone, to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Medications Used During Fentanyl Detox
To manage withdrawal symptoms, detox programs may use various medications:
- Buprenorphine & Naltrexone: These medications act as partial opioid agonists, attaching to the same receptors as fentanyl but only partially activating them to reduce withdrawal discomfort.
- Methadone: Relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings, though it requires careful administration due to its addictive potential.
Additional medications like muscle relaxers and antidepressants may also be used to support comfort and mental well-being during detox.
Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction
Detox is just the first step in recovering from fentanyl addiction. Long-term success requires comprehensive treatment, which may include:
- Therapy: Addresses underlying issues such as trauma and co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: Helps maintain sobriety through the use of FDA-approved medications.
- Inpatient or Outpatient Programs: Based on individual needs, patients can choose from residential treatment or attend outpatient programs while living at home.
- Aftercare Planning: Ensures ongoing support through programs like support groups and intensive outpatient programs.
Find Fentanyl Detox in Atlanta Today
Detox ATL offers compassionate and personalized care for those struggling with fentanyl addiction. Our recovery specialists are available 24/7 to help you start your journey to a healthier life. Call (470) 828-2226 to speak with our admissions coordinators and get the support you need.
