Drug and Alcohol - Opioid Addiction

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay In Your System? Long Enough to Kill

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

How long does fentanyl stay in your system? Long enough for it to be deadly. Fentanyl abuse is easily the most lethal form of substance abuse there is.

According to the University of Colorado's Anschutz Medical Campus, over 150 people die every day from overdoses involving synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Its extreme potency makes this opioid painkiller very dangerous to abuse.

Using fentanyl is gambling with your life. With the right help, however, you'll be able to get through fentanyl withdrawal and into a life where you don't need to risk using fentanyl to feel normal.

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is prescribed for severe pain, typically in cases of terminal cancer or for post-surgery recovery. However, it has also been illegally produced and sold on the streets as a highly potent recreational drug.

Because of its strength, fentanyl can cause a rapid onset of euphoria, followed by a dangerous level of respiratory depression and potentially fatal overdose. As such, it is important to understand how long this drug stays in your system after use.

The length of time that fentanyl stays in your system can vary depending on various factors such as:

  • Dosage

  • Frequency of use

  • Metabolism rates

  • Your weight and build

  • The amount you're taking

And more.

On average, however, fentanyl can stay in your system for up to 72 hours after last use.

How Long Does Fentanyl Take to Kick In?

This can depend on how you take fentanyl. Nasal sprays and pills tend to kick in after a half hour or so. Fentanyl patches, on the other hand, can take around one to two days to take effect...but the effects last much longer.

Fentanyl injections tend to take effect almost immediately.

Drug Tests and Fentanyl

Drug tests can detect fentanyl in your system for varying lengths of time.

  • Urine Test: Urine tests can detect fentanyl for up to three days.

  • Saliva Test: Mouth swab tests can't detect fentanyl at all.

  • Blood Test: A blood test can detect fentanyl in your system for up to two days.

  • Hair Test: Hair follicle tests are rare and expensive, but they can detect fentanyl's presence for up to three months.

You Don't Have to Be a Statistic

Fentanyl's potency is why it's so hard to quit using it. The withdrawal symptoms can be severe and life-threatening. However, seeking professional help is crucial in overcoming this addiction.

Through a medically supervised detox program, you'll receive the necessary care and support to manage your withdrawal symptoms safely. Additionally, therapy and counseling will help address any underlying issues that may have led to fentanyl abuse in the first place.

Don't risk becoming another statistic in the opioid epidemic. Seek help today and begin your journey towards a healthier and drug-free life.

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What Is Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Like?

Despite its strength, fentanyl addiction treatment is very similar to treatment for any other opioid. It usually starts with drug detox and then proceeds through the various levels of care.

Drug Detox

Drug detox allows fentanyl to leave your system in a safe and controlled manner. Fentanyl withdrawal is justifiably infamous for the symptoms it causes. While drug detox won't make this critical process easy, a drug detox provider will ensure that you're kept as comfortable and safe as possible as fentanyl leaves your system.

With the right help, you'll be able to get through fentanyl withdrawal and on to the rest of your life.

Inpatient Care

Inpatient rehab is a natural bridge from drug detox. It continues the close 24/7 monitoring of drug detox as you participate in the first stages of rehab. You'll be able to build up your strength after detox and start building a new life for yourself.

Outpatient Rehab

At our outpatient rehab, we'll help you develop the coping mechanisms and other life skills you'll need for a successful life in recovery. Our programs make use of proven, evidence-based techniques to treat fentanyl addiction successfully:

And more!

Aftercare

Recovery is a condition that has to be managed to be successful. Our alumni services program is. YOUR resource for a successful recovery, offering you access to resources, therapists, group meetings, and even fun outings.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at The Edge

We've successfully helped many people leave dangerous opioids like fentanyl behind. You'll be able to create something very few people receive: a second chance at life.

Imagine not dreading an overdose. Think about not worrying if your next hit of fentanyl comes from a bad batch. Enjoy being free from the endless chase for money to buy fentanyl as you run the risks of assault, robbery, and more. There's a better life for you out there. We'll help you take it.

Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma can often be an underlying factor in substance abuse, and we understand the importance of addressing and treating trauma alongside addiction. Our trauma-informed care approach ensures that our clients receive comprehensive treatment for both their addiction and any unresolved trauma.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction also have a co-occurring mental health disorder. That's why we offer dual diagnosis treatment to address both issues simultaneously. This integrated approach allows for more effective treatment and improved chances of long-term recovery.

A Strong Community Focus

Fentanyl abuse is isolating, causing you to retreat from the world. Our rehab acts as YOUR community center, a place where you can come and get away from the pressures of the world. You'll be able to focus on recovery, growth, and healing.

Recovery Should Be (and Is!) Fun

You'll enjoy regular fun outings while at The Edge. There's no better way to rebuild trust, test your limits, and experience every possibility in life.

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What Happens if Fentanyl Addiction Isn't Treated?

Left untreated, fentanyl abuse nearly always ends in death. Even if you don't die, there's a very real possibility of being disabled for life due to a coma or injuries while under the effects of fentanyl. Fentanyl is increasingly mixed with dangerous drugs like xylazine and nitazines, causing horrific and painful skin injuries.

Additionally, the constant risk of overdose and exposure to dangerous situations can lead to severe psychological effects, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

This doesn't have to be your future. Recovery is possible, and you deserve it.  So don't wait any longer, reach out for help now and take back control of your life from fentanyl addiction.

Don't Wait to Hit Rock Bottom: Fentanyl Abuse Is Treatable

Waiting to get treated for fentanyl addiction is dangerous – the drug is so potent many people die before they receive care.  Don't wait until you hit rock bottom to seek help. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances of a successful recovery.

Don't let fentanyl control and ruin your life any longer. Take the first step towards healing and reach out for professional help today. There is hope, and there is a better life waiting for you on the other side of addiction. Reach out to us today to learn more.

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We’re Here To Help You Find Your Way

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.

Written by

brian-mooreBrian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

jeremy-arztJeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

Drug and Alcohol

Opioid Addiction

September 26, 2024

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Synthetic opioids are man-made drugs that mimic the effects of natural opioids like morphine and codeine. They are often used as powerful painkillers, but they also have a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Fentanyl is significantly stronger than other opioids, making it much easier to overdose on. It is estimated to be 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin.

Yes, fentanyl can be deadly even in small amounts. If you come into contact with fentanyl or any drugs laced with fentanyl, seek immediate medical attention.  Even non-opioid users are at risk of overdosing on fentanyl due to its potency.

Yes, fentanyl addiction can be treated through a combination of drug detox, inpatient and outpatient rehab programs, therapy, and ongoing aftercare support. With the right help and resources, recovery from fentanyl addiction is possible.  Don't wait any longer to get help – reach out for professional treatment today.