Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and one of the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths. Even a small dose of fentanyl can be deadly, making it highly dangerous.
Nearly 150 people die daily from synthetic opioid overdose, such as fentanyl.
There are two types of fentanyl: pharmaceutical fentanyl and illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Pharmaceutical fentanyl is typically prescribed to treat severe, advanced-stage cancer pain or post-surgery pain. Illegal versions of fentanyl are often sought after for their heroin-like effects, making them particularly dangerous and contributing to a rise in overdose deaths.
What Is Fentanyl? How Do I Know I Need Help?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, approximately 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, which makes it highly addictive. Its extreme potency increases the risk of overdose, especially for individuals who may be unaware that a powder or pill contains fentanyl. This makes it particularly dangerous, as even a small amount can lead to a fatal overdose.
Like other opioids, fentanyl works by binding to the pain receptors in the central nervous system. With repeated use, the body adapts to the drug, reducing its sensitivity to its effects and making it harder to experience pleasure from anything other than the drug. As addiction to fentanyl develops, using the drug can begin to take over a person’s life, impacting their daily activities and relationships.
When someone experiences a fentanyl overdose, immediate medical help is necessary. Detoxing from fentanyl can be extremely painful, and depending on the amount of fentanyl someone regularly consumes, it can also be potentially fatal. Medical supervision is essential to ensure safety and provide the support needed during the detox process.
Fentanyl Detox: What to Expect
When someone detoxes from fentanyl, they can expect to experience physical withdrawal symptoms shortly after their last dose. Once the physical symptoms subside, individuals may continue to face emotional and mental health challenges. It’s common for people to relapse or misuse fentanyl in an attempt to avoid the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms, which can make the recovery process even more challenging.
MAT Treatments for Fentanyl
Fentanyl addiction is typically treated with a combination of medications and behavioral therapies. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) medications, such as buprenorphine and methadone, are often used to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier for individuals to focus on their recovery. These medications, alongside therapy, support the process of overcoming fentanyl addiction.
These medications work similarly to fentanyl by binding to the pain receptors in the central nervous system. This partial blockage helps reduce cravings and lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms. At the same time, it tricks the body into thinking it has consumed a small amount of fentanyl, easing the transition away from the drug.
Another medication, naloxone, blocks opioid receptors completely and prevents fentanyl from having any effect.
Behavioral Health Therapies for Fentanyl
Over time, behavioral therapies can help individuals change their attitudes and behaviors toward drug use, develop healthier coping skills, and reinforce their commitment to sticking with their MAT medication. These therapies play a crucial role in addressing the psychological aspects of addiction and supporting long-term recovery.
Some standard behavioral health therapies for fentanyl addiction include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals modify their expectations around drug use and equips them with effective strategies to manage triggers and stress. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance abuse, promoting healthier ways of coping with challenges.
- Contingency management uses a voucher-based system, where individuals are scored based on their negative drug tests through a point system. They can then use these points to earn rewards, such as items that promote healthy living, reinforcing positive behaviors and encouraging continued progress in recovery.
- Motivational interviewing is a patient-centered counseling approach that helps individuals explore and resolve their mixed feelings about changing drug misuse behaviors. This technique encourages self-reflection and enhances motivation to make positive changes, empowering the person to take active steps toward recovery.
What’s the Timeline for Fentanyl Withdrawal?
Fentanyl withdrawal can begin as early as a few hours after the last dose. The onset and intensity of withdrawal symptoms can vary, but they typically start within this short timeframe, making it crucial to seek professional support for a safe and manageable detox process.
Anyone with a fentanyl use disorder will typically need at least seven to ten days to recover from the physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal. The duration and intensity of withdrawal can vary depending on factors such as the length of use, the dosage, and individual health, making professional support crucial during this period.
Depending on the duration of fentanyl abuse, individuals may require additional time to recover from the after-effects of the drug leaving the body. In some cases, it may take several months to fully recover from fentanyl withdrawal. In extreme cases, full recovery can take years, highlighting the importance of long-term treatment and support to address both physical and psychological aspects of recovery.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of other opioid withdrawals, but each individual will experience detox differently. While some people may experience a wide range of symptoms, others may only face a few. Common symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal include:
Physical Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal include:
- muscle and bone pain
- sleep problems
- diarrhea and vomiting
- cold flashes and goosebumps
- uncontrollable leg movements
Because these symptoms are so uncomfortable, many people find it difficult to stop taking fentanyl.
Mental Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Because substance abuse is a mental health disorder, drug abuse often comes with mental health effects.
Some of the emotional issues that can happen during the fentanyl withdrawal process include:
- mood swings
- anxiety
- depression
- memory issues or cognition
- intense fentanyl cravings
Fentanyl Detox Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
With the rise in fentanyl abuse, the need for effective opioid treatment has become more crucial. The following are common questions someone seeking to heal from fentanyl abuse may ask:
Is It Safe To Detox from Fentanyl Alone?
It is never recommended to detox from any opioid alone, especially fentanyl. Regular fentanyl use slows down respiratory rate and blood pressure. When someone discontinues the drug, they may experience a sudden increase in blood pressure, which can potentially trigger a heart attack or stroke. Medical supervision is crucial to safely manage these risks during detox.
Due to fentanyl’s potency, suddenly discontinuing the drug can lead to a range of emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, and intense cravings. Without the support of a detox program, individuals are highly likely to relapse, which increases the risk of harming themselves. Medical supervision and proper care are essential to safely navigate withdrawal and reduce the chances of relapse.
How Is Fentanyl Detox Different from Other Opioids?
If someone is addicted to an extended-release version of fentanyl, it will have a longer half-life, meaning it takes more time for the drug to leave the body. As a result, withdrawal symptoms may take longer to appear and can persist for a longer period, requiring more time and support for recovery.
No matter what form of fentanyl you’re struggling with, a detox program can help.
Benefits of Fentanyl Detox at ARIA
Opioid abuse can significantly alter brain chemistry, and the longer treatment is delayed, the more likely these changes will become permanent. With the help of a fentanyl detox program, you or your loved one can break free from substance abuse and begin the journey to recovery. Call (606) 462-3001 or complete our confidential online form for more information.
Sources:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Fentanyl DrugFacts
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration – Fentanyl NARCOTICS (OPIOIDS)