How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid commonly used in medical settings to manage severe pain, particularly for patients who are tolerant to other painkillers. It’s up to 100 times more powerful than morphine, making it extremely dangerous when misused. Fentanyl is available in various forms, including lozenges, patches, tablets, and as a powder in its illicit form.

How Does Fentanyl Work?

Fentanyl targets the body’s opioid receptors, primarily located in the brain regions that regulate pain and emotions. By binding to these receptors, fentanyl can induce a sense of intense relaxation and euphoria. However, due to its strength, it also poses a high risk of severe side effects and addiction, especially when used without proper medical guidance or beyond prescribed limits.

Side Effects of Fentanyl

Using fentanyl can lead to a variety of side effects, such as:

• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shallow or slowed breathing

Long-term or heavy use can result in more serious health issues, including respiratory depression, liver damage, and heart complications.

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping fentanyl use after dependence can trigger withdrawal symptoms like:

• Anxiety and agitation
• Insomnia
• Muscle aches
• Excessive sweating
• Diarrhea
• Respiratory depression
• Enlarged (dilated) pupils

These symptoms usually appear within 24 hours after the last dose and can persist for days or even weeks, depending on factors like dosage and individual health.

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

The amount of time fentanyl remains in the body depends on various factors, including a person’s metabolism, body mass, age, liver and kidney function, and the frequency of use.

Detection times for fentanyl vary by test type:

• Urine test: Can detect fentanyl use between 24 to 72 hours after the last dose.
• Blood test: Can identify fentanyl presence from 3 to 12 hours after the last use.
• Hair test: Can detect fentanyl up to 90 days after use.

Half-Life of Fentanyl

The half-life of fentanyl refers to the time it takes for half of the drug to be cleared from the body. This can differ significantly depending on the form used. For instance:

• Fentanyl lozenges: Half-life of around 3.2 hours.
• Fentanyl patches: Can have a half-life of up to 27 hours.

Age can also impact the half-life, with older adults generally experiencing longer elimination times compared to younger individuals.

How To Recover From Fentanyl Abuse

Given the strength of fentanyl and the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms, recovery often requires professional intervention. Treatment generally involves:

• Medical detox: Supervised detoxification helps safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Involves the use of prescribed medications to ease cravings and withdrawal, often combined with behavioral therapies.
• Behavioral therapies: Includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement, general counseling, and contingency management. These methods help individuals develop healthier habits, coping mechanisms, and strategies to avoid relapse.

Seeking Help for Fentanyl Addiction in Indiana

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it’s crucial to seek professional help promptly. Due to the high risk of overdose, which can be fatal, reaching out to experienced addiction specialists is essential. The Recovery Village Indianapolis offers comprehensive treatment programs, including detox and residential rehab, to help individuals safely navigate the challenges of fentanyl withdrawal and begin their journey to recovery.

Remember, addiction is not a moral failing but a complex medical condition that requires appropriate care. Don’t hesitate to seek the support you need for a healthier, substance-free life. Reach out to our Recovery Advocates today.