Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms & Detox

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is commonly misused. Prolonged use of fentanyl can lead to physical dependence, which can lead to an individual experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it.¹

This article will help you learn more about fentanyl withdrawal and answer the following questions:

• What are fentanyl withdrawal symptoms?
• What is the fentanyl withdrawal timeline like?
• How do I detox from fentanyl safely?
• Which medications are commonly used during fentanyl detox?

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl are much like that of other opioids since they belong to the same class of drugs. These symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable but aren’t likely to become life-threatening unless complications arise.²

Less intense withdrawal symptoms that last for weeks or months are known as protracted withdrawal. Protracted withdrawal is highly variable. Symptoms can improve and worsen or even resolve and return. Not everyone experiences protracted withdrawal.^3,4

Typical symptoms associated with protracted fentanyl withdrawal are:^3,4

• Feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritability.
• Difficulty or inability to enjoy activities.
• Insomnia.
• Shortened attention span.

How Long Does Fentanyl Withdrawal Last?

Fentanyl withdrawal typically lasts between 7–10 days, although this can vary from person to person.^2,3

Factors that may influence the fentanyl detox timeline include:²

• Whether you take extended-release fentanyl or use immediate-release or illicit fentanyl.
• The length of time you have been using fentanyl.
• The amount you use regularly.
• The frequency of use.
• The route of administration.
• Your age.
• If you have any other physical or mental health issues.
• If you take any medications or use other substances.

Withdrawal symptoms can appear as early as 6 hours after taking the last dose of fentanyl and increase progressively until symptoms peak, approximately 1–3 days after the last dose.⁴

After this acute time frame, the symptoms will gradually improve until they fully resolve about 7–10 days later.^2,3

Medically Managed Fentanyl Withdrawal

The fentanyl withdrawal process can be very uncomfortable and involve intense cravings, which can increase the risk of relapse.^1,2

Many individuals relapse in order to ease the discomfort and cravings associated with withdrawal. A relapse can increase the likelihood of fatal overdose because your body may now have a lower tolerance, meaning that it takes a lower dose of fentanyl to reach a high since fentanyl has not been in your system for some time.²

Attending a professional medical detox program in a hospital-based or rehab environment is the safest way to withdraw from fentanyl and other opioids. There, you will receive around-the-clock monitoring and support to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.

Medications Used to Detox from Opioids

When you attend a medically assisted detox, the doctor may prescribe medication to manage acute withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.^2,6

The most commonly used medications for detox from opioids are:^1,2,6,7

• Methadone.
• Buprenorphine/Suboxone.
• Clonidine.
• Lofexidine (Lucemyra).

Fentanyl Detox in Riverview, FL

Withdrawing from fentanyl may seem daunting, but it’s possible to detox safely and recover from addiction to fentanyl or other drugs. If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, our inpatient rehab near Tampa is here to help.

River Oaks is a cutting-edge treatment facility that provides different types of rehab and personalized treatment plans designed to meet the individual needs of each patient.

For more information on our programs, contact our free helpline at . Our knowledgeable support staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about how to pay for rehab, insurance coverage for rehab, and more.

Call us to start the admissions process and begin the path to recovery today.