Fentanyl Detox: Expert Addiction Treatment
Misusing fentanyl is risky. Whether you got a prescription to manage pain or started using illicit fentanyl, quitting needs support. Fentanyl detox brings on challenging symptoms that are more intense and have a faster onset than other opioids.
But quitting is worth it. Recovery is possible, and the team at Sheridan Grove Recovery is here to help. At our center in Aurora, Colorado, we recognize that every person’s path to wellness is as unique as their story. Our medically supervised fentanyl detox programs are designed not just for safety, but to honor your dignity, listen to your needs, and provide the compassionate support you deserve as you begin this life-changing journey.
Understanding fentanyl and its risks
You may have heard of fentanyl before, even if you've never used it. In recent years, fentanyl use has been widespread and has affected the lives of so many people.
What is fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid. Doctors sometimes prescribe fentanyl for severe pain—often after surgery or for advanced cancer—but it remains addictive.
Illicit versions of fentanyl can be 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. More recently, illicit fentanyl drove a nationwide surge in overdose deaths. It's sometimes mixed into other drugs, like heroin, counterfeit prescription pills, or even methamphetamine. Since it's so potent, it can lead to overdose, even among people with high tolerance.
Just how dangerous is fentanyl?
In 2023, fentanyl and other opioids were involved in about 70% of all U.S. overdose deaths. Data from early 2024 showed a glimmer of hope: a 36% drop in fentanyl-related deaths. Still, the risk remains high, particularly in communities where street fentanyl is readily available and the potency of a single dose can be unpredictable.
Why is fentanyl detox important?
Fentanyl is especially difficult to withdraw from without support. Its potency means the brain and body adapt extremely quickly, and missed doses or attempts to quit “cold turkey” can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
Without medical help, withdrawal can be overwhelming—both physically and psychologically. Digestive issues are some of the most reported physical issues, and cravings are among the toughest psychological. Cravings are the most concerning because they can cause a relapse. Someone who returns to fentanyl use runs the risk of overdosing since the drug is so strong.
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Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and timeline
Once someone stops using fentanyl, they'll experience withdrawal symptoms. Their symptom severity will depend on how long they've used and how high their tolerance is.
Common withdrawal symptoms
Opioid withdrawal is not usually life-threatening. However, it can be intensely uncomfortable and emotionally distressing. Since fentanyl is a painkiller, any pain it was masking can quickly set back in, which can make cravings even worse.
Physical symptoms
- Severe muscle, joint, and bone pain
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps
- Profuse sweating, chills, and “goose bumps”
- Fatigue, yawning, shivering, and headaches
- Runny nose, tearing eyes, dilated pupils
- High blood pressure, heart palpitations
Psychological symptoms
- Intense anxiety and agitation
- Deep sadness or depression, sometimes with suicidal thoughts
- Strong drug cravings
- Restlessness or an inability to sit still
- Insomnia—often lingering for weeks after physical symptoms ease
- “Brain fog,” confusion, and challenges concentrating
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms set in more quickly and are more severe than those of other opioids, like heroin. Without 24/7 support during detox, it can be easy to relapse.
Detox timeline: What to expect
Short-acting opioids, like fentanyl, usually take a week to 10 days to fully clear from the body. For many people, symptoms usually come in a couple of waves.
Early withdrawal (8–24 hours)
The first day after stopping fentanyl use brings on flu-like symptoms, like runny nose and eyes. Sweating, yawning, and sleep loss are also normal. Joint, muscle, and headaches also usually set in quickly. Cravings also start early.
Full withdrawal (24–72 hours)
Symptoms peak within the first three days for most detoxing from fentanyl. Blood pressure and heart rate usually rise. Some people feel agitated and even get a fever. Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting make it hard to eat or drink, which can cause dehydration. For some, blood pressure can drop.
The first month
People who had a severe addiction to fentanyl can experience discomfort for a few weeks. As time goes by, physical symptoms become less intense, which makes cravings—which also diminish—easier to cope with.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS)
Some people experience PAWS, though not everyone does. PAWS symptoms can last for a few months as the brain and body adjust to life without opioids. It usually involves less intense but persistent symptoms like:
- Mood instability
- Difficulty with memory or focus
- Sleep disturbances
- Periodic cravings
- Increased stress sensitivity
PAWS is a significant factor in relapse—ongoing therapy and participation in support groups can help manage this stage.
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Medically supervised fentanyl detox methods
Inpatient detox programs
Inpatient—or residential—detox provides the safest environment for people with moderate to severe fentanyl dependence, a history of relapse or overdose, or co-existing physical or mental health issues.
What does inpatient detox look like?
- 24/7 medical oversight: Nurses and doctors are always on-site, able to immediately address severe symptoms like dehydration or cardiac changes.
- Structured routines: Daily schedules include medication times, meals, hydration schedules, periodic health checks, and support groups.
- Therapeutic activities: Gentle exercise and mindfulness are available to help stabilize mood and manage stress.
- Peer support: Connecting with others going through similar struggles fosters hope and accountability.
- Transition planning: As symptoms subside, a counselor helps identify the next steps, whether that’s inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient care, or another type of treatment.
- Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUDs): FDA-approved medications like Subutex, methadone, and Suboxone can help manage cravings, making it easier to focus on recovery.
For many, the sense of safety in a medical setting provides peace of mind, making it easier to focus energy on healing. The team at Sheridan Grove Recovery is experienced in helping people navigate fentanyl withdrawal in our inpatient detox program. Inpatient detox at our center in Aurora, CO, usually lasts five to seven days.
Outpatient detox options
Outpatient or ambulatory detox might be enough for those with milder dependence, strong support systems, and limited medical or psychiatric risks.
How does outpatient detox work?
- Clinic visits: Daily clinic appointments for medication administration (MOUDs), assessment, and health monitoring.
- On-call support: 24/7 phone access to nursing or medical staff in case symptoms worsen or relapse feels imminent.
- Home environment: Patients sleep in their own bed, attend to family or work, and practice new coping skills in real-time.
- Flexible duration: Outpatient detox can last from several days to a few weeks, based on the severity of dependence and progress through withdrawal.
- Family involvement: Loved ones are often included to support adherence and monitor safety at home.
While outpatient detox offers flexibility, it requires a high level of motivation. Risks associated with unsupervised withdrawal—like relapse in moments of intense craving—are lower with strong family support and support group attendance.
Rapid detox: pros and cons
Rapid and ultra-rapid detox methods involve administering large doses of MOUDs (such as naloxone or naltrexone) under heavy sedation or general anesthesia with the promise of “flushing” opioids quickly.
What are the considerations?
- Risks: Studies show no improvement in long-term recovery, but higher odds of serious medical complications, including cardiac and respiratory events. Emergency medical admission rates are significantly higher compared to standard detox.
- Relapse: Despite the speed, relapse rates remain high, as rapid physical withdrawal does not address the psychological or behavioral aspects of addiction.
- Recommendations: Most addiction medicine experts and national guidelines advise against rapid detox for fentanyl due to its risks and the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care.
At Sheridan Grove Recovery, we use evidence-based, gradual detox protocols to prioritize your health for the long road of recovery—not just quick results. We’ll discuss all options with you, listen to your concerns, and build a detox plan that matches your needs.
Medication-assisted treatment for fentanyl addiction
MAT, or medication-assisted treatment, greatly reduces cravings for fentanyl. When someone has fewer cravings, they're less likely to relapse during detox. Medication-assisted treatment is not just replacing one addiction with another; it's a controlled, therapeutic, tapered approach to withdrawal management.
Common medications used
MAT is a standard opioid use disorder treatment, especially for fentanyl addiction. It blends medication to control withdrawal and cravings with therapy and educational support for a holistic approach.
Medications include:
- Buprenorphine: Reduces withdrawal symptoms and blocks the “high” from other opioids.
- Methadone: Replaces illicit opioids with a safe, regulated dose administered in a clinic. Daily administration and the clinic structure help taper the dose down over time.
- Buprenorphine/Naltrexone (Suboxone): Buprenorphine reduces withdrawal symptoms, and naltrexone blocks the effects of other opioids if used.
Benefits of medication-assisted treatment
- Improved retention: Staying on an MAT plan lowers overdose and all-cause mortality risk.
- Craving control: Medication reduces physical discomfort and suppresses cravings, allowing individuals to focus on therapy and life rebuilding.
- Support for recovery: MAT is most effective when paired with counseling, life skills coaching, housing assistance, and employment support. States with broad MAT access and naloxone distribution have seen the largest drops in fentanyl-related deaths.
At Sheridan Grove Recovery, MAT plans are carefully created, monitored, and adjusted by medical professionals. Our clinicians work with you to develop a personalized plan—adjusting medications to fit both your withdrawal experience and long-term goals.
Managing withdrawal and preventing relapse
Withdrawal management takes more than just medication and medical monitoring. When you stop using fentanyl, your brain and body take time to adjust. You'll need to learn new habits and coping skills to avoid relapse.
Withdrawal management strategies
During detox, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. We use a comprehensive strategy to help you manage all your symptoms:
- Hydration: Nurses monitor your fluid intake and provide electrolyte drinks to combat dehydration—a major risk during withdrawal.
- Nutrition: Our kitchen serves small, protein- and vitamin-rich meals easy on the stomach. We offer food that's easy on the stomach to minimize nausea and provide needed energy.
- Movement and rest: Gentle movement (like short walks) helps reduce muscle pain, while rest is encouraged to allow your body full healing.
- Comfort measures: Warm showers, relaxation and grounding techniques, and breathwork help manage stress and agitation.
- Sleep support: Non-habit-forming sleep aids, a quiet environment, and sleep hygiene routines help restore sleep patterns disrupted by withdrawal.
Relapse prevention techniques
Relapse prevention begins in detox and remains crucial long after withdrawal subsides. Personalized relapse prevention plans at Sheridan Grove Recovery include:
- Trigger identification: You’ll work with clinicians to recognize situations, people, or emotions that could spark cravings. Proactive planning helps you harness avoidance or coping strategies.
- Coping skills: Practice deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or creative expression as outlets for stress and anxiety.
- Peer support: Early participation in support groups and regular check-ins with counselors reinforce positive changes and provide a sounding board for difficult moments.
- Emergency plans: Together, we develop crisis plans including trusted contacts, emergency phone numbers, and safe spaces in case of strong urges to use.
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Comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment
Fentanyl detox isn't the last step in recovery. Comprehensive treatment helps support every part of your life after addiction.
Harm reduction approaches
Not everyone is ready for complete abstinence immediately, and harm reduction can be a life-saving bridge to recovery. For those not ready to enter treatment, Colorado provides harm reduction services like:
- Naloxone distribution: Free Narcan spray kits can reverse overdoses
- Fentanyl test strips: Supplies to test substances for fentanyl contamination, potentially preventing accidental overdose
- Syringe access programs: Safe syringe exchange reduces the risk of HIV, hepatitis, and soft tissue infections
Dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders
Many people living with fentanyl addiction also experience depression, anxiety, trauma, or PTSD. Treating these co-occurring disorders alongside addiction is crucial.
- Integrated care: Mental health professionals and addiction specialists collaborate for assessment, diagnosis, and joint treatment planning.
- Evidence-based therapies: Options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, and medication management as needed.
Substance abuse counseling and support groups
Clients are encouraged to participate in a mix of counseling and peer support:
- Individual therapy: Sets goals, builds trust, processes trauma, and develops personalized recovery strategies.
- Group therapy: Provides a sense of belonging, reduces isolation, and enhances communication skills.
- Community support groups: Resources like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), SMART Recovery, and faith-based recovery groups are available to sustain healing beyond treatment.
Aftercare planning and long-term recovery
Recovery takes focus and attention every day, even long after treatment is over. After fentanyl detox and other rehab programs, staying connected to care and having a relapse prevention plan can keep you on track.
Importance of aftercare
Detox is only the beginning. Long-term recovery is maintained through steady support, healthy routines, and planning for the challenges that may arise.
Life doesn't stop after you leave treatment, and challenges will come up. Without structured aftercare, you are more vulnerable to setbacks, especially when faced with high-risk situations or emotional turbulence. Staying connected to a peer community that understands the journey truly makes all the difference.
Support groups and community resources
- Continued therapy: Referrals to counselors or therapists, either in-person or through telehealth.
- Life skills and employment support: Learn skills you need to transition into life after addiction.
- Community resources: Get help navigating employment, housing, education, and health services.
- Support groups: Connections to support groups like Narcotics Anonymous, where you can connect with others who share similar experiences and struggles.
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Understanding fentanyl overdose and emergency response
Using fentanyl, even just once, puts you or a loved one at risk of an overdose. Opioid overdoses can be reversed, but it takes quick action.
Recognizing overdose symptoms
Acting fast in an overdose situation can save a life. Key signs of fentanyl overdose include:
- Slowed, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue or grayish lips, fingertips, or skin
- Unresponsiveness—even to loud noises or pain
- Gurgling or choking sounds (sometimes called “death rattle”)
- Limp body, pale or clammy skin
Overdose prevention and naloxone use
How to respond to an overdose:
- Call 911 immediately. Most states, including Colorado, have “Good Samaritan” laws to protect you and the victim from prosecution for seeking help.
- Administer naloxone (Narcan). Use a Narcan kit (usually a nasal spray) according to the directions on the box.
- Perform rescue breathing if the person is not breathing or only gasping, aiming for 1 breath every five to six seconds.
- Place them in the recovery position (on their side) once they start breathing, and stay with them until help arrives.
Prevention tips:
- Carry naloxone: Many states require pharmacies to stock it with little or no co-pay, especially under Medicaid.
- Don’t use alone: Encourage “never use alone” practices; hotlines and check-ins can save lives.
- Test your supply: Fentanyl test strips can detect contamination and help people who use drugs make safer choices.
Reach out to Sheridan Grove Recovery for immediate help
Our team is standing by 24/7 to help you or a loved one stop using fentanyl. We accept Medicaid and many commercial insurance plans to make addiction treatment more accessible to everyone who needs it. Have questions? Reach out to us by calling 303.268.2987 or contacting us online.
Frequently asked questions
Generally, physical symptoms may start within 12 hours of the last dose and peak within 1–3 days. Psychological symptoms may continue for weeks or even months after stopping use. Seek professional help to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.
It is not recommended to detox from fentanyl without medical supervision. Withdrawal from fentanyl can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening due to the risk of relapse and certain physical symptoms.
Traces of fentanyl can still be detected in urine and blood tests for up to 48-72 hours after use. It may take longer for people who've used for a long time to completely eliminate fentanyl from their bodies.
Supporting a loved one during fentanyl detox can be challenging, but it is important to show compassion and understanding. Offer emotional support, assist in finding professional help, and encourage healthy habits such as exercise and proper nutrition. Most importantly, avoid enabling behavior that keeps them using.
Buprenorphine, methadone, naloxone, and naloxone/buprenorphine are all used to treat fentanyl withdrawal symptoms. These medications help ease the physical and psychological discomfort associated with detoxing from fentanyl.
Yes, there are harm reduction resources available in Denver for individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction. Syringe exchange programs, Narcan distribution, fentanyl test strips, and support groups are all available.
