In the United States, 107,000 lose their lives each year from drug overdoses; 55,000 of those overdoses are from fentanyl alone. Here’s one startling fact to keep in mind: fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than any other opioid, and the effects are that much harder to detox.
The dangers of unintentional fentanyl use cannot be overstated. Many people turn to fentanyl due to tighter controls of prescription opioids.
When used alongside other substances, the sedative effect found in fentanyl is enhanced to such a degree that it can often lead to a fatal overdose. Many substances, from prescription medications to marijuana are now being laced with fentanyl, leading to unintentional overdoses and even death for users. Many patients were shocked to learn that fentanyl was present in their system without them knowing.
How do I Ask for Help?
The first step to recovery can be extremely difficult for those who don’t know where to begin. There is no need to struggle alone. Even with support and emotional strength, the withdrawal symptoms present a highly significant challenge. These symptoms can last several days and frequently lead to relapse. It is extremely important to detox from fentanyl under medical supervision, as sometimes withdrawal symptoms can be fatal.
The opioid/fentanyl withdrawal timeline and symptoms vary from person to person. Also, a number of factors are an influence, including:
- The severity of your addiction
- Length of time you have been using
- Amount that you use on a consistent basis
- Use of other drugs or alcohol
- Any underlying medical or mental health issues you may have.
How you took the fentanyl can also affect withdrawal. Fentanyl is available in various immediate-release formulations, as well as extended-release patches, or as injections. Previous abuse of extended-release forms of fentanyl can prolong your withdrawal process, while injection abuse of fentanyl may be associated with faster onset of withdrawal and more severe withdrawal effects.
Fentanyl Detox is the First Step to Recovery
Fentanyl detox is the process of clearing the body of the drug. We can accomplish this through a variety of methods, including:
- Tapering off the drug slowly
- Abruptly stopping use
- Undergoing medical detoxification
Tapering off the drug slowly is often the preferred method of fentanyl detox, as it can help to minimize withdrawal symptoms and make the process more manageable. Abruptly stopping use can lead to more severe withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, we don’t recommend doing this. Medical detoxification can be helpful in managing withdrawal symptoms and ensuring a safe and comfortable detox experience.
Fentanyl detox can be difficult, as it can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms. However, medical detoxification can help to make the process more manageable and increase the chances of success.
Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches and pains
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
Fentanyl detox generally takes 1–2 weeks. However, the length of time may vary depending on individual circumstances. Medical detoxification can help to make the process more comfortable and shorten the length of time needed to detox from the drug.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to those who need assistance in overcoming addiction and beginning the path to recovery.
We’re Here to Help
Springfield Wellness Center has built its reputation on addressing the individual needs of patients and helping them detox with minimal withdrawal symptoms. Our staff is standing by, ready to help you on your journey to recovery.
Too many people struggle with addiction alone—and all too often fail. Let us help you. Working together we can beat addiction. Call us today at 844.334.4727.