Fentanyl overdose deaths have increased by 500 percent (1) since the turn of the century and the numbers have been steadily rising. If you or someone you love has been struggling with fentanyl addiction, quitting may feel like the only option — but it may also seem nearly impossible to achieve. The problem is that many individuals attempt to overcome the addiction on their own and end up repeating the same habits for various reasons. Because of this, seeking professional help is the best approach for quitting fentanyl. Professionals can evaluate your individual motivations and clinical needs, and provide guidance through the difficult road to recovery.
At Guardian Recovery, our team of compassionate and experienced professionals specialize in addiction recovery. We not only assist individuals in overcoming addiction, but also work to identify the root causes of their addiction. Through our specialized programs, we help those struggling with fentanyl addiction to not only quit the drug, but also to build fulfilling and meaningful lives. The result is a new beginning, free from pain and suffering. If you are ready to quit fentanyl, we are here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about how Guardian Recovery can help you start your journey to recovery.
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What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is up to 100 times more potent (2). It is typically used in medical settings to manage severe pain, such as that experienced by cancer patients. Fentanyl is available in several forms, including patches, lozenges, and injectable solutions. It is also sold illegally on the street in powder form, often mixed with other drugs.
Health Risks of Fentanyl
The health risks associated with fentanyl use are significant. Because of its potency, even a small amount of fentanyl can cause a dangerous overdose. Some of the health risks of fentanyl use include:
- Respiratory Depression – Fentanyl can slow down breathing, which can lead to respiratory depression. In severe cases, respiratory depression can cause a person to stop breathing, leading to brain damage or death.
- Addiction – Fentanyl is highly addictive. Even those who use it as prescribed for medical purposes can become addicted. Illicit use of fentanyl can quickly lead to dependence and addiction.
- Overdose – Fentanyl is one of the leading causes of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Even a small amount of fentanyl can cause an overdose. Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, and blue lips and nails.
- Withdrawal – Withdrawal from fentanyl can be extremely uncomfortable and can include symptoms such as muscle pain, sweating, nausea, and anxiety.
Effects of Fentanyl
The effects of fentanyl can vary depending on the method of use, the dose, and the individual’s tolerance to the drug. Some of the effects of fentanyl use can include:
- Euphoria – Fentanyl can cause feelings of intense pleasure and euphoria, which is one of the reasons it is so addictive.
- Sedation – Fentanyl can cause extreme sedation and drowsiness. This can be dangerous, especially if the person is driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Confusion – Fentanyl can cause confusion and disorientation, making it difficult for the person to make rational decisions.
- Nausea and Vomiting – Fentanyl can cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration and other health problems.
- Respiratory Depression – As mentioned above, fentanyl can slow down breathing, leading to respiratory depression.
- Constipation – Fentanyl can cause constipation, which can be uncomfortable and lead to other health problems.
- Coma – In severe cases, fentanyl can cause a person to enter a coma.
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Factors Affecting the Duration of Fentanyl in Your System
The duration of fentanyl in your system depends on several factors, including–
- Age – Older individuals may process drugs more slowly.
- Weight – Heavier individuals may metabolize drugs differently.
- Metabolism – The speed of your metabolism can affect how quickly your body processes fentanyl.
- Frequency of use – Regular fentanyl use can build up in the body and take longer to leave the system.
Detection Methods for Fentanyl
There are several methods for detecting fentanyl in the body and the time in which they remain–
- Urine tests — Fentanyl can be detected in urine for up to three days after the last use.
- Blood tests — Fentanyl can be detected in the blood for up to 24 hours after the last use.
- Saliva tests — Fentanyl can be detected in saliva for up to two days after the last use.
- Hair tests — Fentanyl can be detected in hair for up to 90 days after the last use.
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid that can be detected in the body for varying amounts of time. The duration of fentanyl in the body depends on several factors, including age, weight, metabolism, and frequency of use. If you’re concerned about how long fentanyl stays in your system, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
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If you or someone you care about is battling any form of addiction, the first step towards recovery typically involves admission to a medical detoxification center. Our detox programs are customized to provide a safe and comfortable transition from the substance, paving the way for further therapeutic steps. If you’re ready to embark on the journey to recovery, please contact us to learn more about our detox options and personalized treatment plans.
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Disclaimer: Does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes, as individual results may vary. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis; please consult a qualified healthcare provider for such matters.
- https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates#:~:text=Overall%2C%20drug%20overdose%20deaths%20rose,overdose%20deaths%20reported%20in%202021.
- https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/index.html#:~:text=Fentanyl%20is%20a%20synthetic%20opioid,100%20times%20stronger%20than%20morphine
