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Fentanyl was originally developed for managing severe pain in medical settings. Unfortunately, its extreme potency (about 50-100 times more potent than morphine!) has made it a dangerous substance in the illicit drug market, where even tiny amounts can lead to fatal consequences.
Withdrawal symptoms can also be intense, making fentanyl withdrawal not only extremely uncomfortable but also risky. In fact, many find it hard to quit due to severe withdrawal symptoms. In this guide, we provide all the information you need to know about fentanyl withdrawal, potential risks, and how to navigate it. Keep reading for more information.
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What is Fentanyl Withdrawal?
Fentanyl withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when someone stops using fentanyl after developing physical dependence1.
When fentanyl is regularly consumed, the brain adapts to its presence by altering its natural chemistry2. Upon cessation, the body must readjust to functioning without the drug, triggering an uncomfortable withdrawal response.
Fentanyl withdrawal tends to be particularly severe due to the drug’s extreme potency3 and the rapid way it binds to and activates opioid receptors in the brain. It’s also worth noting that this experience can differ significantly between those discontinuing prescription fentanyl under medical supervision and those who have been using illicit street versions. In illegal markets, the drugs often contain unpredictable amounts of fentanyl, making withdrawal potentially more volatile and dangerous.
Common Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 12-24 hours of the last dose4.
Physical symptoms often include5:
- Intense muscle and bone aches
- Profuse sweating, sometimes accompanied by fever
- Persistent runny nose and watery eyes
- Severe gastrointestinal distress (including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea)
- Alternating chills and hot flashes with visible goosebumps
- Extreme difficulty sleeping despite overwhelming fatigue
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
- Dilated pupils and sensitivity to light
Psychological symptoms may further involve5:
- Overwhelming anxiety and restlessness
- Depressed mood and feelings of hopelessness
- Irritability and mood swings
- Intense cravings for fentanyl
While fentanyl withdrawal is not typically life-threatening6 on its own for otherwise healthy individuals, the extreme discomfort it causes presents significant risks. Many people return to using simply to escape the withdrawal symptoms, often at dangerously high doses due to decreased tolerance, which can lead to overdose.
Additionally, complications like severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea can become dangerous without proper support and monitoring.
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How Long Does It Take to Withdraw from Fentanyl?
Due to fentanyl’s short half-life, withdrawal symptoms typically emerge rapidly compared to other opioids7. This timeline involves:
- 6-12 hours after the last dose: Initial symptoms begin to appear, including anxiety, muscle aches, teary eyes, runny nose, yawning, and increased sweating. These early signs signal that the body is beginning to adjust to the absence of fentanyl.
- 1-3 days: Withdrawal symptoms reach their peak intensity during this period. Physical discomfort becomes most severe, with pronounced muscle and joint pain, intense gastrointestinal issues, insomnia, and powerful drug cravings that test even the strongest resolve.
- 4-10 days: Physical symptoms gradually begin to subside, though psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, and cravings may persist at significant levels.
- Weeks to months: Some individuals experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), characterized by lingering psychological symptoms, mood instability, sleep disturbances, and periodic cravings that can continue for extended periods.
The duration and severity of withdrawal depends on many factors, such as how often and how much was used, whether it was pharmaceutical or illicit (which may contain other harmful substances), the person’s metabolism, their overall health, and whether they have any other medical or mental health conditions.
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Risks of Fentanyl Withdrawal
While fentanyl withdrawal itself isn’t usually fatal, several serious risks can emerge during the process that require careful attention8.
For example, severe vomiting and diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which may cause dangerous cardiovascular complications, especially in those with pre-existing health conditions. The intense psychological distress experienced during withdrawal occasionally triggers suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviors in vulnerable individuals.
Additionally, the overwhelming discomfort and powerful cravings create a high risk of relapse. This presents the greatest danger of fentanyl withdrawal—if someone returns to using after even a brief period of abstinence, their reduced tolerance significantly increases overdose risk. In fact, many fatal overdoses occur when individuals resume fentanyl use at their previous dosage after a detoxification attempt, unaware that their body can no longer tolerate the same amount.
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How To Safely Detox from Fentanyl
The safest way to go through a fentanyl withdrawal is under medical supervision. In a professional setting, your vital signs are closely monitored, symptoms are managed more effectively, and any complications can be handled right away. Doctors can give you IV fluids if you’re dehydrated and medications to ease things like nausea, anxiety, or pain.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) may further help during fentanyl detoxification, depending on the person and their symptoms. Some medications that may be used include:
- Buprenorphine (often combined with naloxone as Suboxone): This is a partial opioid agonist that relieves withdrawal symptoms and cravings without producing the same high as full opioids
- Methadone: This drug is a long-acting opioid that helps stabilize patients and reduce the severity of withdrawal.
Attempting to detox from fentanyl at home without medical oversight is not recommended due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms, psychological distress, and risk of relapse and overdose. Even with supportive family members present, the lack of appropriate medications and the inability to address potential complications make home detox dangerous.
At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), we’re here to help guide you toward recovery. When you’re ready to begin your journey toward lasting recovery and better health, call us at 804-635-3746 or fill out our online form. We’ll be by your side through the detoxification process and beyond. Recovery is possible; together, we can help you reclaim your life.
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