Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms & timeline
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms arise when a person dependent on synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, either stops using the drug or significantly reduces their dosage. The symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can manifest on a spectrum, varying from mild to severe.
In this blog, we will cover:
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Recognizing the early signs of fentanyl withdrawal is essential for promptly addressing the difficult detox process and ensuring effective treatment. By being aware of these signs, individuals and their loved ones can take proactive steps toward seeking appropriate support. Here are some early indicators that may suggest the onset of fentanyl withdrawal:
These withdrawal effects may intensify over time, underscoring the importance of timely intervention and treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing fentanyl withdrawal, reach out to healthcare professionals or fentanyl addiction treatment centers for guidance and assistance in navigating this challenging process.
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms occur due to the body’s adaptation to the presence of fentanyl, a potent opioid. When someone uses fentanyl regularly or in large amounts, their body becomes dependent on the drug to function normally. With continued use, the body adjusts its chemical balance and develops a tolerance to fentanyl, meaning that higher doses are required to deliver the same effects. When fentanyl use is abruptly stopped or significantly reduced, the body goes through a period of adjustment, leading the user to experience withdrawal symptoms.
Fentanyl affects the central nervous system, especially the MOR ( mu-opioid receptors), which play a central role in governing pain relief, pleasure, and reward [1]. When fentanyl is consistently present, these receptors become desensitized, and the body relies on drug use to maintain normal functioning. When fentanyl is suddenly removed, the MOR becomes unoccupied, triggering a cascade of physiological and psychological changes.
The withdrawal symptoms that emerge are the body’s response to the absence of the drug. They can range from mild discomfort to acute symptoms, depending on factors such as the individual’s level of physiological dependence, duration of drug abuse, and overall health.
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Fentanyl withdrawal involves a range of physical symptoms that can vary in intensity and pose certain risks to individuals. Some of the physical symptoms experienced during withdrawal include:
In addition to these physical symptoms, those undergoing fentanyl withdrawal may also encounter various emotional issues, including:
While fentanyl withdrawal is typically not life-threatening [2], it can be highly uncomfortable, and the severity of symptoms depends on various factors. Complications may arise during the withdrawal process, especially if attempted without medical supervision. Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and the risk of heart failure can occur if vomiting and diarrhea are left untreated. Additionally, there is an increased risk of overdose during an opioid withdrawal timeline for individuals who resume use after a period of abstinence due to reduced opioid tolerance.
We understand the challenges of fentanyl withdrawal, and we’re dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for your recovery. You don’t have to face this journey alone.
While not everyone will experience the same withdrawal timeline, the following outlines a likely timeline for most fentanyl users:
Fentanyl, like codeine and heroin, are all short acting opioids [3]. Like all drugs in this classification, withdrawal symptoms normally appear within 8-36 hours after the last dose. In contrast, withdrawal symptoms from extended-release oxycodone and other long-acting opioids typically begin 24 to 48 hours after the last dose.
During the initial day of fentanyl withdrawal, you might experience the following early symptoms:
During the second day, the above symptoms will persist. You may also experience the following adverse effects:
Most symptoms will peak on the third day of detoxification. The most challenging symptoms during this acute phase of opioid withdrawal include:
With the most acute phase of withdrawal complete, these symptoms may linger:
At this point, symptoms typically begin to peak before subsiding around day 7:
All withdrawal symptoms should dissipate after a week or so. Sleep patterns may take time to normalize.
Many people report experiencing ongoing fatigue and intermittent episodes of depression during the early phase of recovery from addiction.
PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) involves symptoms that persist for months after quitting fentanyl. The most common of these effects of PAWS include:
Since every case of addiction is different, a thorough drug evaluation is essential to determine the appropriate length of detoxification needed. Taking this precaution can significantly reduce the risk of overdose.
It’s important to note that while physical symptoms of this withdrawal timeline typically only last up to a week, cravings can persist long after. For the best chance at long-term recovery, seek support from a professional recovery center.
If you or someone you know is experiencing fentanyl withdrawal, you should seek professional medical help to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Finding safe and effective methods to manage withdrawal symptoms and control cravings can help streamline the recovery process from fentanyl addiction.
Medical professionals can prescribe addiction medicine that not only alleviates withdrawal symptoms but also provides long-term support in maintaining abstinence from prescription and illicit opioids. These medications have been proven effective in fentanyl detox protocol:
In addition to opioid medications, a non-opioid treatment called lofexidine hydrochloride received FDA approval in 2018. Lofexidine can play a valuable role in reducing the severity of fentanyl withdrawal effects, providing individuals with support as they work towards discontinuing fentanyl use.
By incorporating these medications into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can experience significant relief from withdrawal symptoms and cravings, enabling them to focus on their recovery journey. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate medication options based on your needs and circumstances.
The duration of withdrawal can vary, but it typically lasts for about one to two weeks. However, the exact duration and intensity of withdrawal symptoms can depend on factors such as usage patterns, dosage, and overall health.
While withdrawal itself is not normally fatal, it can be a challenging and uncomfortable process. There are nevertheless risks associated with abruptly stopping fentanyl use, such as seizures, dehydration, mental health issues, and other medical concerns. You should seek professional medical supervision when withdrawing from fentanyl to minimize potential dangers.
The duration of fentanyl detox varies with the level of opioid dependence and individual health factors, but it typically takes 5 to 10 days for the acute withdrawal symptoms to subside. However, some symptoms may persist for weeks or months in a longer-term process known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
At Gratitude Lodge in Southern California, we can help you combat fentanyl addiction at our pet-friendly rehab centers dedicated to whole-body recovery located in Newport Beach and Long Beach, CA.
Our fentanyl detox program offers medical supervision to ensure the safest and most comfortable withdrawal process. When your system is purged of addictive substances, you can transition directly into one of the following Gratitude Lodge treatment programs for opioid use disorder and substance use disorder:
Our addiction treatment programs include behavioral therapies such as:
To move from active addiction into support sustained recovery, place your trust in Gratitude Lodge. Call admissions at 844-576-0144
[1] https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl
[2] https://withdrawal.net/narcotic/fentanyl/
[3] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2788654
Drug detox can vary according to the patient’s addiction factors, including the substance abused, how long the addiction has lasted, the patient’s medical condition, if any other disorders are present, and more. Our skilled and credentialed team at Gratitude Lodge work closely with every patient going through drug detox, facilitating the beginnings of a successful recovery at our rehab addiction centers in Orange County, CA.
Many patients don’t realize the toxicity of prolonged alcohol abuse and how it affects the body. Alcohol detox at the luxurious rehab addiction centers at Gratitude Lodge leeches your body of these toxins in preparation for successful treatment for drugs and alcohol abuse. Alcohol detox may not take as long or produce severe withdrawal symptoms, but it is still an essential beginning to your recovery.
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