Individuals in non-residential treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) may experience additional stressors in their daily lives, extending the symptoms and side effects of withdrawal from fentanyl. According to Addiction, “[P]atient reports suggest that those with [opioid use disorder] experience fentanyl withdrawal symptoms as more severe, more enduring and having a faster onset than heroin withdrawal, which may be driving premature exits from treatment.” The Redpoint Center helps clients stay in treatment and get the help they need to manage fentanyl withdrawal and heal from SUD.
What to Expect During Fentanyl Withdrawal
Withdrawal from fentanyl may be more severe if the individual abused more than one type of substance. In addition, fentanyl is often added to other illicit substances as a way for street dealers to boost revenue, making treatment more difficult. The clinicians at The Redpoint Center ensure clients receive the highest level of care and use various treatments to reduce the symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal. Outpatient programs don’t have the same level of one-on-one monitoring available as inpatient programs. However, research has shown most clients have the same outcomes in residential and non-residential programs.
Clients in treatment can expect the following:
- Individualized and group therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Medication management
- Peer support
- Case management to ensure quality treatment
- Aftercare planning
Programs at The Redpoint Center include individual and group therapy, community support, and collaboration between clients and clinicians. The care team provides essential support services, education, and treatment to help clients heal from fentanyl addiction. Individuals recovering from fentanyl withdrawal collaborate with clinicians to design a fully tailored treatment plan to meet their unique needs and preferences.
Common Symptoms and Side Effects
Non-residential treatment programs use medication management and other forms of treatment to help reduce the symptoms and side effects of fentanyl withdrawal. Everyone responds differently to withdrawal from fentanyl depending on a wide range of factors, including genetics, family history, co-occurring disorders, and the severity of symptoms.
Some of the most common symptoms and side effects experienced during withdrawal from fentanyl include:
- Chills
- Intense cravings
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues
- Extreme irritability
- Bone and muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Sleep disturbances
- Runny nose
- Weakness
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle cramping
The physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal generally last for a few days. However, the mental side effects of addiction and withdrawal may last for far longer. Prolonged withdrawal symptoms, including intense cravings, are managed using therapy and other forms of treatment. According to MedlinePlus, “Anyone going through detox for opiates should be checked for depression and other mental illnesses.” Treating all active issues simultaneously reduces the risk of relapse.
How Long Do Symptoms Usually Last?
The initial physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal usually fade after a little over a week. Some people may notice positive changes to their health after only a few days of withdrawal. The mental health symptoms may last far longer.
Different demographics experience distinctive challenges while recovering from opioids like fentanyl. For example, according to Drug and Alcohol Dependence, in one study on opioid withdrawal, researchers found that “African American [people who inject drugs] reported more severe pain associated with withdrawal.” In addition, “[F]emale [people who inject drugs] had higher odds of reporting very or extremely painful withdrawal symptoms.” Treatment for fentanyl withdrawal is tailored to the specific needs of each client to ensure they feel safe and comfortable during recovery.
How Does The Redpoint Center Treat Clients With Fentanyl Withdrawal?
The Redpoint Center is a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where people heal together from the effects of substance abuse. The care team utilizes multiple methodologies for treatment, including prescription medications, psychiatry, and psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is often combined with alternative holistic therapies to increase their effectiveness.
Mental health support services play a vital role in addiction recovery. Individuals struggling with lingering symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal benefit from participating in various forms of therapy, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Trauma-informed therapy
- Family therapy
- Holistic therapies
Psychoeducation at The Redpoint Center ensures clients make informed decisions about their treatment and aftercare. The care team also encourages families to actively participate in their loved one’s recovery to smooth the transition into continuing care.
What Support Resources Are Available for Individuals Experiencing Fentanyl Withdrawal?
Most people being treated for opioid withdrawal go through a step-down process from detox to residential or outpatient treatment. The Redpoint Center offers intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) for clients requiring additional support after completing higher levels of care. The clinicians at The Redpoint Center believe clients and their families benefit from having access to a range of supportive resources during and after treatment. Case managers ensure clients have the information to make informed decisions about their treatment and aftercare by offering information and referrals for outside help.
Professional addiction recovery and mental health services provide the best support for individuals experiencing fentanyl withdrawal. However, other resources are available, including:
- Community-based programs
- Addiction recovery organizations
- Self-help groups, including 12-Step meetings
Everyone has different needs during recovery from fentanyl withdrawal. The Redpoint Center ensures clients have access to services and support designed to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse. Individuals who may have longer-lasting withdrawal symptoms also benefit from alumni services and comprehensive aftercare support. Clinicians at The Redpoint Center give clients the tools they need to heal, grow, and recover from the effects of fentanyl withdrawal.
Fentanyl is a highly addictive and dangerous drug with the potential to cause multiple health issues. The effects of the drug cause significant changes to the brain and other body systems, often causing severe and lingering symptoms of withdrawal. Many families are unable to manage the long-term effects of fentanyl addiction and withdrawal without the support of trained addiction recovery specialists. The Redpoint Center offers clients and their loved ones access to essential services, resources, and emotional support. The compassionate care team goes above and beyond to ensure all clients receive the care they need to establish sobriety and manage their condition. To learn more about The Redpoint Center and our programs, call us today at (303) 710-8496.
