Fentanyl Detox: What's It Like?

Fentanyl detox can be difficult and uncomfortable, as withdrawal symptoms can be intense and potentially dangerous. Fentanyl is a potent drug; detoxing from it can be a physically and mentally taxing experience. Symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can be intense and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle and bone pain, and intense cravings. In some cases, withdrawal can also lead to serious complications such as seizures and respiratory depression. For most people with opioid use disorder, detoxing from fentanyl is too intense to do independently. Treatment and detox can help people cope with getting sober from fentanyl.

Fentanyl and Opioid Use Disorder

People who use fentanyl recreationally often develop opioid use disorder. It's one of the most potent opioids in the world and can create strong pleasurable effects in its users. Chasing that euphoria is how people get addicted. Some drug users self-medicate a mental health disorder or cope with stress and trauma. Whatever the reason a person gets high, when using fentanyl, they are at high risk for opioid use disorder. They likely won't be able to quit without help because of the intensity of withdrawal.

Due to the potential severity of fentanyl detox, treatment providers may need to use medical supervision and monitoring. In some cases, detox may require hospitalization or intensive outpatient treatment. Extra precautions may need to be taken for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or a history of substance abuse. The decision about detox must be between a client and their healthcare providers,

Fentanyl Detox and MAT

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be an effective way to ease the symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse. MAT involves using methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications can be prescribed by a healthcare provider and are often used with counseling and behavioral therapy.

MAT can help people get sober without experiencing intense withdrawal. As time goes on, MAT can help people achieve recovery. They can be free from the physical barriers addiction causes and be able to work on themselves. This is why MAT is such an important tool; it gives people with OUD the space and time to tackle the issues connected to their drug use and learn new coping skills in treatment and therapy.

It's important to note that the best approach to fentanyl detox will depend on the individual's specific circumstances and medical history and that treatment should always be tailored to the individual's needs.

Fentanyl Detox Symptoms

Fentanyl detox can be difficult and uncomfortable, and withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially dangerous. Some of the symptoms of fentanyl detox may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Muscle and bone pain
• Joint pain
• Insomnia
• Anxiety and agitation
• Sweating and chills
• High blood pressure and rapid heart rate
• Dilated pupils

In some cases, fentanyl withdrawal can lead to more serious complications such as seizures, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrest. For this reason, detox should be undertaken with medical supervision and monitoring.

Detoxing from fentanyl without medical help can be dangerous and even deadly. Abruptly stopping the use of fentanyl can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and increase the risk of relapse. Additionally, the risk of overdose increases during and immediately after detox as the body's tolerance to the drug is reduced.

It is strongly recommended that anyone seeking to detox from fentanyl or any other opioid do so with the support and supervision of a healthcare provider or addiction specialist. This can help ensure the detox process is safe, effective, and tailored to an individual's needs.

Getting Help for Opioid Use Disorder

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction or withdrawal, seeking professional help is strongly recommended. We can help you take the first steps to long-term sobriety in a compassionate, professional, safe environment,. Please call to learn more about our programs.