Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is at least 50 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is often used to manage severe pain after surgery. Additionally, it may be used to treat chronic pain in those who have built up a tolerance to other opioids. Long-term fentanyl usage, similar to that seen with other prescription opioids, may lead to physical dependency on the substance. Dependence develops even with prescription fentanyl usage, and abrupt cessation leads to withdrawal symptoms.
Although withdrawal symptoms seldom pose a life-threatening hazard, they are very unpleasant. Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms may begin anywhere from 6 hours to a week or more after the last dose is taken. Those who take fentanyl transdermal patches often experience a more gradual onset of withdrawal symptoms and a longer recovery time.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms are comparable to other opioid withdrawal symptoms. Both physical and mental symptoms are possible. Examples of these symptoms include:
- Muscle pains.
- Runny nose.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dilated pupils.
Individuals experiencing opioid withdrawal are more susceptible to giving in to their cravings to alleviate the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. It is common for people to relapse when detoxing, which may have devastating consequences. Overdose is also more likely to occur in people who have just completed an opiate/opioid detox program because their tolerance for opioids has reduced.
Factors Affecting the Fentanyl Withdrawal Duration
Both the degree to which a person has become dependent on fentanyl and their unique physiological traits have a role in determining the severity and length of withdrawal symptoms. The withdrawal process may take far longer and be much more uncomfortable for those who have developed a serious reliance on fentanyl due to long-term, high-dose usage. More intense withdrawal symptoms may be experienced by those dependent on other substances besides fentanyl.
The intensity and length of withdrawal symptoms are also affected by the individual’s unique physiological makeup. These physiological traits are affected by a person’s genes, upbringing, diet, habits, state of health, and age.
Quitting fentanyl suddenly (cold turkey) might cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Instead, fentanyl doses should be decreased slowly to lessen the impact of withdrawal. Before beginning a tapering regimen, discussing the process with the healthcare professional is important. Withdrawal symptoms may still appear in certain cases even while adhering to a tapering plan. In such circumstances, it is common practice to use a more progressive tapering plan, and medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
You need to seek professional help if you’re trying to quit fentanyl or experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Fentanyl abuse and addiction have the potential to be fatal. Nonetheless, it is possible to overcome opioid addiction. The knowledgeable and caring staff at Skyward Treatment Center can help you detox safely and painlessly if you or a loved one has been entangled in a dangerous cycle of opiate addiction and need expert assistance. Call Skyward Treatment Center today to begin your path to recovery.
