Fentanyl Detox

Getting Through Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms Safely

Fentanyl addiction is a growing epidemic that has caused a significant increase in overdose deaths in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, has risen steadily over the past decade. In 2019, there were over 36,000 deaths involving synthetic opioids, which accounted for more than 60% of all opioid-related deaths.

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used medically to treat severe pain, but it is also manufactured illicitly and sold on the black market as a street drug. It is highly addictive with various adverse effects. Due to its potency, even a tiny amount of fentanyl can be fatal. It is often mixed with other drugs without the user’s knowledge, increasing the risk of overdose.

If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, detox is an essential first step in fentanyl addiction treatment. Detoxification, or detox, entails eliminating drugs or toxins from the body. Fentanyl detox can be challenging, but it is necessary to rid the body of the drug before you begin the recovery journey.

Keep reading to learn what fentanyl detox is, what to expect during the process, and the various methods and medications used during detox at Resurgence Tennessee.

What Is Fentanyl Detox?

Fentanyl detox involves eliminating fentanyl from the body to manage withdrawal symptoms and prepare for drug abuse and addiction treatment. It is a critical first step for anyone struggling with fentanyl addiction. Fentanyl detox is unique from other types of detox because of the severity of the drug’s effects on the body.

The fentanyl detox timeline varies depending on various factors, like the length and severity of the addiction, the individual’s physical and mental health, and the detox method used. Generally, the process can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

What Happens During Detox from Fentanyl?

During fentanyl detox, people can experience various physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Common physical symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sweating
• Muscle aches
• Flu-like symptoms

Psychological opioid withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Insomnia

Abruptly stopping the use of fentanyl can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, which can be hazardous without proper medical care. You should seek professional help when going through fentanyl detox.

The process of fentanyl detox can also have potential risks and complications. These may include dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, heart problems, seizures, and respiratory depression. However, the risk of these complications can be reduced with professional medical care.

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be severe and extremely uncomfortable, physically and psychologically.

Physical Symptoms

The most common physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal include the following:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle aches and pains
• Sweating
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Chills and goosebumps
• Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure

Psychological Symptoms

Psychological effects of fentanyl withdrawal can include the following symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Mood swings

The withdrawal process usually begins within the first few hours to a day after the last use of fentanyl and can last for several days to weeks. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the level of opioid use disorder and the length of use.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

To manage these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical care when you want to detox from fentanyl. Medical professionals can help manage symptoms through medications, therapy, and other treatments.

Some commonly used medications for fentanyl detoxification include:

• Buprenorphine: This medication is a partial opioid agonist used to manage withdrawal symptoms and lessen the risk of relapse.
• Methadone: This drug is also an opioid agonist to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Clonidine: This medication is a blood pressure medication that can help manage anxiety, agitation, and other physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal.

After medically supervised detox, therapy and other treatments may also be recommended to manage the psychological symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals identify and manage triggers that can lead to relapse.

Fentanyl Detox Methods

Fentanyl detox entails safely eliminating harmful substances and their metabolites from the body. This crucial step is usually carried out in a licensed medical detox facility or substance abuse treatment center to ensure proper care and support.

Fentanyl addiction treatment is a complex and challenging process, and detox is a crucial component of the treatment plan. This comprehensive care allows for the close management and minimization of any complications that may arise during fentanyl withdrawal, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for those undergoing treatment.

There are different methods for fentanyl detox. Choosing the program best suits the individual’s needs and preferences is essential.

Medical Detox Treatment

Medical detox is the safest approach for fentanyl detox. Conducted under medical supervision, detox can help ensure safety and effectiveness. Medical professionals monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms, offer medications to help manage symptoms, and provide psychological support.

The length of treatment varies widely depending on the individual’s needs. This method is recommended for individuals with severe fentanyl addiction, co-occurring medical or mental health issues, or a history of seizures or other complications during detox.

Rapid Detox Program

Rapid detox is a less common method of fentanyl detox that involves being put under anesthesia while opioid antagonists, such as naltrexone, are administered to remove the drug from the body quickly. The procedure can take several hours to complete and is typically done in an outpatient setting.

While rapid detox can help speed up the detox process, it is also associated with several risks and drawbacks. Rapid detox can be more expensive than other methods and may not be covered by insurance. It also requires a significant recovery period and can be dangerous for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart or liver problems.

Home Detox

Home detox, also known as self-detox, involves detoxing from fentanyl alone without medical supervision or professional support. This method is not recommended and can be dangerous because of the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms and complications.

Attempting home detox can increase the risk of relapse and may cause serious medical complications. It is vital to seek professional help when going through fentanyl detox to ensure safety.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

After fentanyl detox, continuing with aftercare and relapse prevention measures is essential to maintain sobriety and avoid potential relapse.

Support Groups

Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery, can provide individuals with a community of like-minded individuals who can offer support and encouragement during recovery. These groups can also provide access to resources and information to help manage addiction.

Therapy

Therapy can help individuals manage underlying mental health issues that may have contributed to addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an evidence-based therapy that can help individuals identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that can lead to addiction and relapse.

You can continue with therapy through family therapy or group therapy sessions.

Medications

Medications used in aftercare help manage cravings and prevent relapse. Drugs such as buprenorphine, naltrexone, and methadone may reduce the risk of relapse and make it easier to control cravings.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes also play a significant role in aftercare and relapse prevention. Developing a healthy routine that includes regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques is essential. Avoiding triggers, such as specific people or situations, can help prevent relapse.

Aftercare or Continuing Care

Aftercare programs, such as support groups or therapy sessions, are essential in maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse. Regular check-ins with a medical professional can also ensure that the people on the road toward recovery stay.

Relapse Prevention Plan

Creating a relapse prevention plan is essential in preventing a potential relapse. A relapse prevention plan can include identifying triggers and warning signs, developing coping strategies, and having a support system.

Find Help for Fentanyl Now

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to fentanyl or other substances, take action now. Seek professional help from a reputable rehab center specializing in fentanyl detox and treatment. You can overcome this challenging addiction and reclaim your life with a comprehensive and personalized approach.

Contact Resurgence Tennessee to begin your journey toward lasting recovery now!