Fentanyl Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline & How to Get Off Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. While fentanyl is prescribed in certain clinical settings to manage severe pain, it is also frequently found in illicit drug markets, where even small, unknown quantities can lead to overdose and death. With fentanyl’s potency comes a high potential for dependence and addiction. Once someone develops dependence, quitting can trigger withdrawal, a set of distressing symptoms that can feel impossible to manage alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl addiction, you are not alone. Professional treatment programs can help you navigate withdrawal, detox and the recovery process. Below, we discuss what fentanyl withdrawal can look like, how long it might last and some available treatment options.

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How Long Does Fentanyl Withdrawal Last?

Every individual is different, and the timeline for fentanyl withdrawal can vary based on factors like:

• How long someone has been using fentanyl
• The amount of fentanyl typically used (dose and frequency)
• Whether fentanyl was used with other substances
• Personal health factors (age, metabolism, co-occurring medical or mental health conditions)

However, there is a generalized timeline for fentanyl withdrawal that can be helpful to understand:

1. Onset (within 2–8 hours after last use): Fentanyl’s effects can wear off quickly, especially with shorter-acting formulations. Withdrawal symptoms may begin earlier than they do with longer-acting opioids like methadone. People may start to feel anxious, restless and irritable as the drug leaves their system.
2. Acute Stage (1–3 days): Withdrawal symptoms typically intensify, reaching their peak between 36 and 72 hours after the last dose. Commonly reported symptoms during this period include severe flu-like symptoms, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea and psychological distress.
3. Subacute Stage (4–7 days): As the worst of the acute symptoms subside, people might begin to feel slightly better physically, but psychological symptoms like cravings, anxiety and depression may persist. Sleep disturbances and mood swings remain common in this phase.
4. Extended Withdrawal (weeks to months): Although physical symptoms tend to lessen in the first week, certain effects — such as fatigue, irritability, insomnia or cravings — can linger for a few weeks or even months. This is sometimes referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). During this period, consistent support and treatment can be essential in preventing relapse.

It is crucial to keep in mind that trying to quit “cold turkey” or detox at home without medical supervision can be both physically and emotionally painful. Professional programs in Salem or across Oregon can monitor vital signs, provide comfort medications and ensure the process is as safe and tolerable as possible.

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Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal are similar to those of other opioids but can be more severe due to fentanyl’s potency. These include:

• Muscle aches, back pain and joint stiffness
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
• Excessive sweating and chills
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Uncontrollable yawning
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia)

Psychological symptoms are also a major component of fentanyl withdrawal. They can include:

• Intense cravings for fentanyl or other opioids
• Extreme anxiety and restlessness
• Depression and mood swings
• Irritability or agitation
• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms can be challenging to manage without professional help, especially for those who have been using fentanyl regularly or in large amounts. Fortunately, medical detox and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help reduce the severity of symptoms and ensure a safer withdrawal process.

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Medical Detox for Fentanyl

Medical detox is a structured process where a person withdraws from fentanyl under the supervision of healthcare professionals. This typically happens in a specialized facility or hospital-like setting with the following goals:

1. Safety: Fentanyl withdrawal can cause rapid changes in blood pressure, heart rate and other vital signs. Medical professionals monitor these vitals to promptly address any potential complications.
2. Symptom Management: Using approved medications and supportive therapies, healthcare providers can reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms, making the process more comfortable and increasing the chance of successful detox.
3. Psychological Support: Withdrawal can trigger anxiety, panic and depression. Trained staff and mental health specialists can provide immediate counseling, reassurance and coping strategies.
4. Continuity of Care: Once detox is complete, patients can smoothly transition into ongoing treatment programs, such as inpatient or outpatient rehab, ensuring continuity and consistency of care.

Why Consider Medical Detox?

Given fentanyl’s potency and risk factors for overdose, attempting withdrawal alone can be dangerous. Even those who have successfully quit other opioids in the past may struggle significantly with fentanyl. A medical detox program not only helps keep people safe but also sets a solid foundation for a longer-term recovery plan.

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Medications That Help Alleviate Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

When you enter a professional detox program or medication-assisted treatment plan, you may be offered certain medications to make fentanyl withdrawal more manageable. Commonly used medications include:

• Buprenorphine (often combined with naloxone as Suboxone):
  • This partial opioid agonist activates opioid receptors in the brain but to a lesser extent than full agonists like fentanyl.
  • It helps alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense high.
  • Combining buprenorphine with naloxone helps discourage misuse because naloxone can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if the medication is crushed or injected.
• Methadone:
  • A long-acting opioid agonist that helps stabilize opioid receptors in the brain.
  • Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the intense euphoric high associated with shorter-acting opioids.
  • Methadone is strictly regulated and must be administered through approved opioid treatment programs.
• Naltrexone:
  • An opioid antagonist that blocks opioid receptors and prevents the euphoric and sedative effects of opioids.
  • It can help maintain abstinence once a person has gone through detox, but it is not typically used during withdrawal because it can precipitate severe withdrawal symptoms if opioids are still in the system.
• Clonidine:
  • A non-opioid medication that can reduce some of the physical symptoms of withdrawal, such as sweating, anxiety and agitation.
  • It does not address cravings directly but can help ease the sympathetic overdrive (elevated heart rate, blood pressure, etc.) that often accompanies withdrawal.
• Lofexidine:
  • Similar to clonidine, lofexidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist approved specifically for opioid withdrawal.
  • It helps reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms but does not fully eliminate them.

Each person’s medication needs may differ, so treatment plans are individualized. By working with medical professionals, you’ll receive a medication strategy tailored to your specific situation.

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Find Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction & Abuse in Salem, OR

If you or a loved one is grappling with fentanyl addiction, local resources in Salem, Oregon, can provide critical support. It’s important to connect with a comprehensive treatment program that addresses not only the physical aspects of opioid addiction but also the psychological, social and emotional components.

Types of Treatment Programs

• Inpatient Rehab: Also known as residential treatment, inpatient rehab offers around-the-clock support in a structured environment. Patients live on-site, participate in therapy and educational sessions and have little to no access to outside triggers.
• Outpatient Rehab: These programs allow individuals to receive treatment during the day and return home at night. They can range from partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) to intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), depending on the intensity and structure needed.
• Aftercare Programs: Relapse prevention is crucial, particularly following an intensive treatment program. Ongoing therapy, support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and sober living homes can help sustain long-term recovery.

Why Choose a Local Salem, OR, Program?

• Accessibility: Finding a treatment center close to home means fewer logistical hurdles like long-distance travel.
• Continuity: Those with family or work responsibilities may find it easier to coordinate local outpatient programs.
• Community Support: Staying connected to local counselors, support groups and alumni networks can provide a strong recovery community close to home.

What To Expect During Treatment

• Assessment: You’ll undergo a thorough evaluation that includes medical history, mental health status and substance use patterns. This assessment guides your individualized treatment plan.
• Therapy: A combination of individual therapy, group counseling and family therapy is often used to address the root causes of addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) and other evidence-based approaches help people develop healthier coping strategies.
• Relapse Prevention Planning: Treatment centers focus on teaching clients how to recognize triggers and build effective strategies to avoid or cope with high-risk situations.
• Aftercare and Support: Programs typically help clients connect with support groups, continued therapy and other resources that promote sustained recovery and prevent relapse.

Begin Your Journey to Recovery

Taking the first step toward recovery can be daunting, especially when you’re feeling trapped by fentanyl dependence or fearful of withdrawal. However, with professional detox programs, evidence-based treatments and a supportive community by your side, it is possible to break free. Early intervention can prevent life-threatening complications like overdose and pave the way for a healthier future.

If you or a loved one is experiencing fentanyl addiction in Salem, OR, reach out The Recovery Village Salem today. Recovery is a process, but every day you commit to it is a step toward reclaiming control of your life. You do not have to face fentanyl withdrawal alone — help is available, and it can start right here in Salem.