If you’re curious about how long fentanyl stays in your system, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the detection times of fentanyl and explore various factors that can affect its presence in your body.
Table of Contents
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a potent drug that is commonly prescribed by physicians to manage severe pain. It is similar to morphine but much stronger, with a potency that is 50 to 100 times greater. While it is prescribed to relieve pain caused by conditions such as cancer or after surgery, illicit manufacturers also produce and sell it on the street. Unfortunately, fentanyl abuse has become a growing concern, leading to a significant increase in overdose deaths.
How Does Fentanyl Work?
Fentanyl works by binding to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to heroin or morphine. This interaction triggers the release of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high for the user. However, prolonged use can lead to tolerance and addiction, as the brain becomes less sensitive to the drug and requires higher doses to achieve the same effects.
What Are the Detection Times for Fentanyl?
The detection times for fentanyl vary depending on the type of drug test and the dosage consumed. Here are the approximate detection times for different tests:
- Hair: Fentanyl can be detected in hair samples for up to 90 days.
- Saliva: Saliva tests can detect fentanyl for one to three days.
- Blood: Fentanyl can be detected in blood tests for up to 12 hours.
- Urine: Fentanyl can be detected in urine tests for eight to 24 hours.
It’s important to note that these detection times can be influenced by several factors, including the presence of other substances, the duration and frequency of fentanyl use, the method of ingestion, the dosage consumed, liver function, genetics, body mass index, body fat, weight, and age.
Fentanyl’s Half-life
Fentanyl has a relatively short half-life of about 90 minutes. This means that its effects wear off quickly after the last use. However, its duration of action can still last between 30 and 60 minutes, making it an effective medication in emergency situations. It can be administered through various routes, including intravenous, subcutaneous, and intranasal.
What Happens if You Take Too Much?
Taking an excessive amount of fentanyl can lead to a high risk of overdose, especially considering its potency. Additionally, the presence of other substances mixed with fentanyl further increases the danger. An opioid overdose can result in respiratory depression, cardiac arrest, and even death. If you suspect someone is overdosing on fentanyl, it is crucial to call emergency services immediately. Naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, should be administered by a medical professional or an emergency technician.
How Can You Safely Stop Taking Fentanyl?
Due to the high risk of physical and psychological dependence associated with fentanyl use, it is not safe to abruptly stop taking the drug without professional assistance. Withdrawal symptoms may occur within 12 hours of the last dose and can last up to seven days. These symptoms include muscle pain, chills, weakness, watery eyes, runny nose, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, increased heart rate, hypertension, sleep difficulties, loss of appetite, depressive symptoms, and irritability.
To safely stop taking fentanyl, it is recommended to seek treatment at a drug treatment center. Detoxification programs, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapies are also employed to address the psychological aspects of addiction and provide coping skills to overcome triggers and cravings.
FAQ
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions about fentanyl and its detection times, visit our 5 WS page.
Don’t wait to seek help if you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl use or substance abuse disorder. The dangers of fentanyl, particularly in large doses, are life-threatening. Contact Illinois Recovery Center today for professional assistance with your opioid use disorder. Both outpatient and inpatient programs are available. Your journey to recovery starts now!
