Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid used to treat severe pain, especially in medical settings like cancer treatment or post-surgery recovery. While it works similarly to drugs like morphine or heroin, fentanyl is far more potent—roughly 100 times stronger than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin.
There are two main types of fentanyl:
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Pharmaceutical fentanyl, prescribed and monitored by doctors
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Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is made illegally and often mixed into other street drugs
Both types affect the body in the same way: by slowing breathing, heart rate, and other central nervous system functions. Even tiny doses can be deadly — especially when taken unknowingly or combined with other substances.
Fentanyl use has become especially concerning in recent years because of how easily it slips into other drugs. Many people don’t realize they’re taking it until it’s too late.
“When it comes to the patients here at Northpoint Recovery, I’d say patients between 38 and 60 years old come to us because of their alcohol use,” said Erica Lopez, Executive Vice President, Operations at Northpoint Recovery. “But nearly everyone aged 35 and below are coming in for amphetamines and opioids, including fentanyl.”
The Dangers of Fentanyl Use
Fentanyl-related overdose deaths have surged in recent years—especially among teens and young adults. According to a 2022 study study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), overdose deaths among teens aged 14 to 18 quadrupled between 2018 and 2021, largely due to counterfeit pills containing fentanyl.
So, what makes fentanyl so dangerous?
It’s Extremely Addictive
Fentanyl binds to opioid receptors in the brain and floods the system with feel-good chemicals. The euphoric effects can hit fast and hard—making the brain quickly associate the drug with relief and pleasure. Cravings often develop after just one or two uses.
Cravings Lead to a Vicious Cycle
When those cravings aren’t met, withdrawal symptoms can hit quickly and severely. Nausea, chills, muscle pain, and emotional distress make it hard to stop without help—so people often continue using just to avoid feeling sick.
Tolerance Builds Quickly
As the body adapts to fentanyl, higher doses are needed to feel the same effect. This increases the risk of accidental overdose—especially since as little as two milligrams can be fatal.
It’s Often Mixed with Other Substances
Illicit fentanyl is commonly pressed into counterfeit pills or mixed into heroin, cocaine, or other drugs without the user knowing. According to the DEA, some pills have tested positive for fentanyl levels between 0.02 and 5.1 milligrams—more than enough to cause an overdose.
The risks are even higher when fentanyl is combined with:
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Other opioids
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Alcohol
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Benzodiazepines like Xanax or Klonopin
This mix can dangerously slow breathing and heart rate, often with fatal consequences.
The Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction
A Fentanyl Withdrawal Timeline
Fentanyl withdrawal doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all schedule. The exact timeline depends on several factors, including:
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How much fentanyl was used daily
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How long the person has been using
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Whether other substances were used at the same time
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Their physical health, metabolism, and history of opioid use
That said, most people experience symptoms for 7 to 10 days, with some lingering effects lasting longer. Here’s a general breakdown of what that can look like:
Within 6–12 Hours After Last Use
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Early symptoms begin to appear, often resembling a bad flu
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Anxiety, muscle aches, restlessness, and cravings may surface
Days 1–3 (Peak Withdrawal)
Symptoms usually intensify and reach their peak. Common issues include:
- Severe body aches and chills
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration risk
- Insomnia, agitation, and mood swings
Days 4–7
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Physical symptoms start to taper off
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Emotional symptoms like depression or anxiety may remain strong
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Cravings may continue as the brain adjusts
Weeks 2 and Beyond
Some people experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), which may include:
- Low energy
- Mood instability
- Trouble sleeping or focusing
- Occasional cravings
While fentanyl withdrawal itself is usually not life-threatening, complications like dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can become dangerous. This is especially true when symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are severe. Medical detox offers supportive care—including fluids and medications—that can ease discomfort and help prevent serious complications.
Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction
Once withdrawal symptoms have subsided and detox is complete, treatment is the next step—and it’s one of the most important ones. Detox alone does not address the emotional, behavioral, and psychological patterns that drive addiction. Without follow-up care, relapse is unfortunately common.
A strong treatment plan for fentanyl addiction often includes:
Therapy and Counseling
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Individual therapy
Explores the root causes of substance use, including trauma, stress, or emotional triggers. It helps the individual build insight and healthier coping strategies. -
Group therapy
Creates a sense of connection, support, and accountability through shared experiences with others in recovery. -
Family therapy
Helps rebuild trust and communication, and strengthens the support system at home.
Evidence-Based Treatment Methods
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to drug use.
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Motivational interviewing: Supports people in exploring their ambivalence about change and strengthening their commitment to recovery.
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Contingency management: Uses positive reinforcement (like rewards or privileges) to encourage sobriety and engagement in treatment.
Supportive Aftercare Options
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Inpatient or residential programs for more structured, immersive care
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Sober living homes for added support during the transition back to daily life
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Outpatient therapy or step-down programs for continued counseling and accountability
Recovery doesn’t end when withdrawal does. Learning how to manage cravings, face stress without substances, and build a healthier life takes time and support. But with the right tools and consistent care, long-term recovery from fentanyl addiction is possible.
Looking for Answers? Northpoint Recovery Can Help
At Northpoint Recovery, we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s specific needs. Our team of experienced professionals utilizes evidence-based therapies to help clients overcome fentanyl addiction and any underlying issues contributing to their substance use disorder.
Looking for help in identifying present or future concerns? The dedicated team at Northpoint Recovery is ready to help. For more information, contact us today.