Getting through the fentanyl withdrawal timeline is an essential, but often difficult, step on the path toward lifelong recovery. Thankfully, you don’t have to go through withdrawal on your own. With the right type of help, you can complete this process safely and more comfortably.
If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of addiction, don’t wait! Call us today for support. You can also verify your insurance online, taking the first step towards a healthier, sober future.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an extremely powerful and highly addictive drug. It is classified as a synthetic opioid, which means it is a lab-produced substance that is similar in structure and function to natural derivatives of the opium poppy plant.
Fentanyl was synthesized for the first time by Paul Janssen, a Belgian physician, in 1960. It began to be used as an analgesic (painkiller) in Europe in 1963, and it earned initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1968.
Fentanyl’s ability to alleviate moderate to severe pain has made it a valuable medication in hospitals throughout the world. Unfortunately, the drug’s effects – which can include deep relaxation and elevated mood – have also made it a popular recreational substance.
Widespread fentanyl abuse has been identified as one of the leading causes of the dramatic increase in overdose deaths in the U.S. throughout the current century. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has reported that:
- In 1999, there were fewer than 20,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. By 2022, the annual number of deaths due to drug overdose had risen to more than 107,000.
- During the same period, the annual number of overdose deaths involving fentanyl and other opioids increased from fewer than 10,000 to more than 81,000.
- More than 73,000 opioid-involved overdose deaths in 2022 involved synthetic opioids other than methadone, a category that consists primarily of fentanyl.
The only way to avoid the many risks associated with fentanyl use is to not use this drug. However, when a person develops an addiction to fentanyl, the pain of withdrawal can make it extremely difficult to quit.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
When a person who has opioid use disorder (which is the clinical term for fentanyl addiction) abruptly stops using fentanyl, their body will struggle to re-establish a sense of equilibrium after adapting to the near-continuous presence of the drug.
During this period, which is known as the fentanyl withdrawal timeline, the individual will likely develop a variety of distressing physical and psychological symptoms, such as:
- Powerful drug cravings
- Racing heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Dangerous increase in body temperature
- Excessive perspiration
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Pain in muscles, ligaments, and tendons
- Tics and twitches
- Insomnia
- Deep fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Agitation and irritability
These symptoms usually aren’t fatal, but they can be sources of immense discomfort. When a person tries to get through this experience on their own, they may quickly become overwhelmed and find themselves pushed back into active opioid abuse.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Timeline
The type, intensity, and duration of withdrawal symptoms can be influenced by several factors, such as how long a person has been addicted to fentanyl, how much of the drug they have been using, if they have gone through withdrawal before, and if they have any co-occurring medical or mental health concerns.
In general, though, the fentanyl withdrawal timeline typically looks something like this:
- Initial withdrawal symptoms can begin as quickly as eight hours after a person’s last dose.
- Within 24 hours of their last dose, a person will definitely be experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
- Once they have begun, fentanyl withdrawal symptoms usually become more intense over the next 36-72 hours (from a day and a half to three days).
- After three days, the most severe symptoms should have peaked.
- After peaking, most fentanyl withdrawal symptoms will start to gradually become less intense. This process often takes about seven to 10 days.
For most people, the majority of their fentanyl withdrawal symptoms will have dissipated after two to three weeks. However, some people experience what clinicians refer to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS. This syndrome, which can include drug cravings and lingering psychological effects, can endure for up to two years after a person stops using fentanyl.
Benefits of Detox for Fentanyl Withdrawal
As we noted earlier, trying to get through fentanyl withdrawal on your own can be quite difficult, and potentially dangerous. To minimize your risk and increase your ability to complete the process, entering a detoxification program may be the best choice.
The benefits of detox for fentanyl withdrawal include:
- Safety: In detox, you will be under the care and supervision of experts who can intervene when necessary to protect your health.
- Comfort: Certain medications can ease the intensity of some fentanyl withdrawal symptoms. This won’t make the process painless, but it can make you considerably more comfortable.
- Support: While you are in detox, you can participate in therapy to help you manage any symptoms that aren’t alleviated by medication. These therapy sessions can also help you begin to make the changes that will support your long-term recovery.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you are being cared for by a team of experts who are familiar with all stages of fentanyl withdrawal, and prepared to address any contingencies that may occur, can eliminate fear of the unknown and provide peace of mind.
- Continuity of care: Your ability to live a healthier life, free of compulsive fentanyl abuse, can depend on the quality of care you receive after detox. Your detox team can discuss your options with you and help you find a trusted treatment provider near you.
Find Fentanyl Detox in Georgia
The Retreat of Atlanta provides customized detoxification and residential treatment services for adults who have become dependent on fentanyl, other opioids, and certain other addictive substances.
When you choose to begin your recovery journey at our fentanyl detox center in Atlanta, Georgia, you will be cared for by a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals.
Every step of the way, these dedicated caregivers can safeguard your health and keep you as comfortable as possible. Then, once you have completed withdrawal, they can help you determine which types of follow-up care will best prepare you for successful, long-term recovery.
Don’t let fear of withdrawal prevent you from ending your fentanyl use for good. To learn more about how we can help you, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Admissions page or call us today.