Fentanyl is a powerful opioid pain reliever typically reserved for only the most severe cases of pain, such as that associated with cancer. The drug has gained significant attention in recent years due to its high potency and risk for addiction. Also concerning is fentanyl’s frequent use in street drugs, which increases their potency.
If you or a loved one uses fentanyl by prescription or recreationally, you must learn to recognize the signs of misuse and know when it’s time to get help. At My 5 Palms, we understand how difficult it can be to stop using fentanyl once you’ve developed a dependence, and we’re here to help you overcome it. To learn more about our fentanyl rehab program, call us today at 1.844.675.1022.
What Is Fentanyl?
Medical providers prescribe this strong opioid when treating patients suffering from significant pain. When lesser drugs like Tylenol with codeine are no longer adequate, fentanyl may be the more compassionate option. Here are a few things to know about fentanyl:
- It’s 100 times more potent than morphine.
- It is classified as a Schedule II drug by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning it has a high potential for abuse that can lead to psychological or physical dependence.
- It is a major contributor to lethal and nonlethal drug overdoses, particularly when misused or accessed illicitly.
Although fentanyl is legally prescribed for cases of severe pain, it is still important to adhere to your provider’s instructions carefully to avoid adverse effects.
How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
There is no single answer to how long fentanyl remains in your system or how long it can be detected on a drug test. There are a number of factors that can impact how your body processes fentanyl or any other substance. A few considerations are:
- Your metabolism – Individuals with faster metabolism may process fentanyl more quickly, however factors like age, genetic makeup, diet, and exercise can also influence your metabolism
- Your body composition – Fentanyl can accumulate in fatty tissues, potentially prolonging its presence in those with higher percentages of body fat
- How often you take fentanyl – The frequency of fentanyl use significantly impacts the accumulation of the drug in your system
- How high the dosage – The amount taken directly influences the concentration that remains in your system, which will affect detection times
- Your overall health – Liver and kidney function can affect the rate at which fentanyl is processed
Generally, the drug may exit your body more slowly if you have a high percentage of body fat, slower metabolism, use fentanyl frequently, take high doses, or have health impairments like liver disease.
In addition to how quickly your body processes fentanyl, the drug may be detected in your system for varying lengths of time based on the type of drug test used. Here is a timeline showing how long after your last fentanyl use that you may receive a positive result:
- Blood test – up to 48 hours
- Saliva test – up to four days
- Urine test – up to four days
- Hair test – up to 90 days
Contrary to what you may have read or heard from friends, there is no way to eliminate fentanyl from your system faster in the hopes of passing a drug test. If you struggle with fentanyl addiction, it is best to reach out to a trusted rehab for support.
Common Signs of Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl is extremely dangerous. It’s important to recognize the signs of fentanyl abuse in order to reduce the risk of death:
Sedation
A person may seem excessively drowsy or have difficulty staying awake.
Slowed Breathing
Slow breathing, also referred to as respiratory depression, is one of the most concerning side effects of fentanyl abuse. In serious cases, a person may stop breathing altogether.
Disorientation
Someone abusing fentanyl may slur their speech or seem confused.
Nausea and Vomiting
Fentanyl abuse can cause gastrointestinal issues along with nausea and vomiting.
Contact My 5 Palms Today for Fentanyl Rehab
While fentanyl can be effective for severe pain management when used under medical supervision, misusing the drug can have devastating consequences. If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, reach out to the team at My 5 Palms by calling 1.844.675.1022 or using our online contact form.
