How to Detox from Fentanyl?

Last Updated on November 20, 2023
adam zagha of numa detox and rehab in los angeles
Writer: Adam Zagha
Clinical Reviewer: Ariana Gravanis

Fentanyl's a name that's become all too familiar. It's potent, powerful, and potentially lethal. If you're struggling with fentanyl abuse, you may be wondering how to detox from fentanyl. We have all the information you need in this article.

As a detox and rehab center for drug and alcohol abuse, NUMA Recovery Centers understands that detoxing from fentanyl is a critical first step toward recovery. Overcoming fentanyl addiction is not easy. Contact us for immediate help and support.

Start Recovery Here.
Call (323) 970-9379

Quick Points

  • Fentanyl detox involves intense physical and emotional challenges.

  • Withdrawal symptoms vary but often include severe pain, anxiety, and mood swings.

  • Professional medical supervision is crucial for safe and effective detox from fentanyl.

  • NUMA provides expert healthcare support tailored to individual recovery needs.

What to Expect During Fentanyl Detox?

Fentanyl is stronger than most other opioids (I.e. morphine, heroin, etc.), and if you're moving away from fentanyl use, you can expect difficulties during the detox process from this grueling drug.

Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, has unfortunately been linked to numerous overdose deaths. Opioid withdrawal from fentanyl is a unique and challenging ordeal, requiring your body to exert significant effort to adapt to its absence.

Fentanyl detox typically involves a complex mix of both physical and mental symptoms. If not managed through medical detox, it can be life-threatening. One of the key risks is dehydration, which, if severe, can lead to hypernatremia – an elevated sodium level in the blood. This condition itself can be deadly if not properly treated. Therefore, undergoing a medical detox is advised to ensure safety and optimal comfort.

Remember, fentanyl is not your everyday opioid; it's one of those extremely potent opioids that needs careful, medical attention during detox.

Common Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Fentanyl, acknowledged by the World Health Organization as a highly potent opioid, is frequently prescribed for managing severe pain. It comes in various forms, including fentanyl patches, which are used particularly for long-term pain management in chronic conditions.

Fentanyl's powerful analgesic properties make it effective for severe, chronic, or acute pain. Due to its high potency, it's a controlled substance, prescribed with caution and under strict medical supervision. This potency also means that fentanyl withdrawal syndrome can be particularly challenging.

Physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal syndrome include:

  • Severe Pain

  • Sweating and Stomach Cramps

  • Runny Nose

  • Agitation and Restlessness

Emotional and mental symptoms include:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression and Mood swings

  • Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

Fentanyl addiction and opioid use disorder can lead to these intense withdrawal symptoms, requiring medical supervision. It is not advised to undergo detox alone, as it can be dangerous.

Fentanyl Detox Timeline

Recovery from drug abuse, particularly in the context of fentanyl, is a serious and challenging process. The fentanyl withdrawal timeline is complex, marked by intense and severe withdrawal symptoms.

It is important to recognize that withdrawal symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. To begin understanding this process, let's consider the following:

First 24 Hours

The physical impact of fentanyl abuse is not easily forgotten by the body. Potential symptoms one might experience include:

  • Intense Cravings: Your body's first response to missing fentanyl

  • Physical Discomfort: Aches, pains, maybe even some nausea

  • Emotional Turbulence: Feelings of anxiety or agitation? Totally normal. Your brain's adjusting to life without fentanyl.

24-48 Hours

As you progress into the 24-48 hour mark of detox, this phase is typically characterized by an escalation in intensity of symptoms. You can expect:

  • Peaking Symptoms: The cravings and discomfort from the first day? They might hit a peak around now.

  • Increased Physical Reactions: You might notice your body reacting more strongly as it continues to detox.

  • Emotional Rollercoaster: If you're feeling more anxious or irritable, know that it's normal and part of the process.

3-5 Days

Usually, at this stage, there is a discernible sense of nearing the end of this process. Throughout these days, one may encounter the following experiences:

  • Easing Symptoms: Those super intense cravings and physical discomforts? They should start to lessen around now. It's a slow process, but relief is on the horizon.

  • Mental Clarity Begins: As the physical symptoms start to subside, your mind might begin to clear up too. You're likely to find yourself thinking a bit more clearly.

  • Emotional Stability: The emotional rollercoaster you've been on? It's starting to even out. You might find yourself feeling a bit more stable.

5-10 Days

This is a significant milestone, as you've moved through the most tumultuous period of the process. During these days, the following developments are typically observed:

  • Symptoms Subside Further: The physical and emotional symptoms continue to ease up.

  • Regaining Strength: You might notice an increase in energy, and that foggy feeling is lifting.

  • Emotional Recovery: You might find yourself feeling more balanced and more in control.

Start Recovery Here.
Call (323) 970-9379

Can I Detox from Fentanyl at Home?

Attempting a home detox can be very dangerous, especially with substances like fentanyl, and is not recommended.

For addiction treatment involving illicit substances like fentanyl, professional guidance is a must. It's a smart move to seek expert help for this process.

Can NUMA Assist with Fentanyl Detoxing?

NUMA, as a specialized detox center, has healthcare providers well-versed in the nuances of fentanyl detox. They are prepared to offer the necessary support and expertise for this important stage of recovery.

Let our team help you be free from fentanyl. Contact us today!

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adam zagha of numa detox and rehab in los angeles
Writer
Adam Zagha
Adam Zagha is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles with over a decade of experience in addiction treatment and recovery. He holds a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and is certified in EMDR therapy, CBT, DBT, and ACT. Prior to Numa Recovery Centers, Adam was CFO and the Director of Clinical Outreach at Transcend Recovery Community. Adam is committed to providing top-quality care to individuals seeking treatment for addiction and mental health issues. He also provides trainings and workshops on addiction, mental health, and mindfulness.
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About Numa
Numa Recovery Centers is a leading drug and alcohol detox and rehab company based in Los Angeles, providing evidence-based treatment for substance abuse and addiction. With a team of experienced professionals, Numa offers a comprehensive range of personalized services to help clients overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery.
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