How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

Like any powerful drug, fentanyl can have adverse side effects if misused. One way to use it safely is to recognize how long a dose remains in your system. Different methods of taking this opioid—from patches to lozenges, nasal sprays, and tablets—will produce different results. In this blog, we’ll help you recognize the signs of a potential problem when taking fentanyl and answer the question of how long does fentanyl stay in your system.

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

The length of time fentanyl remains in your system depends on a number of factors, including the dose, mode of administration, individual metabolism, and other variables. Fentanyl can be found in the bloodstream for up to 24 hours following consumption. Fentanyl and its metabolites can be found in urine for 2 to 4 days following use. However, it may be noticeable for up to a week or longer in rare situations, especially with chronic use. Fentanyl can be detectable in saliva for up to 1 to 2 days following ingestion. When compared to other testing procedures, fentanyl can be found in hair follicles for a longer period of time. It can be found in hair for up to 90 days, if not longer. If you suspect you’re experiencing side effects from fentanyl use, a medically-supervised fentanyl detox is a recommended first step.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid medicine in the narcotics class of medications. It is a powerful pain reliever that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is generally used to treat severe pain, especially when other opioids or non-opioid pain medicines are ineffective. Fentanyl has a high potency, meaning it profoundly affects the body, even at low dosages. Its strength makes it beneficial for controlling severe pain but also raises the danger of overdose when used incorrectly or without medical care. Fentanyl is frequently used in medical settings such as hospitals and surgical centers to relieve pain during and after surgical procedures and manage chronic pain disorders. It comes in a variety of forms, including transdermal patches, lozenges, nasal sprays, injections, and buccal tablets.

Duration of Fentanyl in Your System

How long does fentanyl stay in your system? The duration of fentanyl in your system is determined by various parameters, including the dose, manner of administration, individual metabolism, and other variables. Fentanyl can be detected in the bloodstream for up to 24 hours after ingestion. Fentanyl and its metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 4 days after consumption. However, in rare cases, especially with chronic use, it may be apparent for up to a week or longer. Fentanyl can be detected in saliva for up to two days after intake. Fentanyl can be discovered in hair follicles for a more extended period of time than in other testing procedures. It can be detected in the hair for up to 90 days, if not longer. It is necessary to keep in mind that these are only estimates and that individual differences may exist. The length of time fentanyl remains in your system can be influenced by factors such as frequency of use, metabolism, body mass, hydration levels, and liver function.

What Are Signs of Fentanyl Misuse?

Fentanyl, like other opioids, may cause drowsiness, respiratory depression, constipation, nausea, disorientation, and euphoria, among other side effects. It can also be addictive, and abrupt withdrawal symptoms can occur after extended usage. While withdrawal can be challenging and uncomfortable, it’s not typically not life-threatening. You may experience flu-like symptoms, gastrointestinal issues, anxiety and agitation, insomnia and sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. Cravings and other psychological symptoms can emerge during periods of fentanyl withdrawal.

What Are the Biggest Dangers of Fentanyl Misuse?

Fentanyl’s most significant risks include addiction, overdose, and potentially fatal respiratory depression. Because of its tremendous potency and the hazards connected with its usage, illicitly made fentanyl, or illegally acquired prescription fentanyl, has been increasingly involved in opioid-related fatalities. An added danger from the illegal manufacturing of synthetic opioids is the common practice of secretly adding them to other substances and making them potentially deadly.

Help Is Available at Restored Path Detox

A medical detox can be a helpful approach to stop harm from opioid misuse. At Restored Path, our healthcare professionals can closely monitor your vital signs, manage symptoms, and provide appropriate medical interventions to ensure your safety throughout the process. We can administer medications and provide other supportive measures to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and make the detoxification process more comfortable. Through counseling, therapy, and support groups, we can address the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction and help you develop coping strategies. In addition, Restored Path tailors fentanyl detox to your individual needs and can help you transition to the next step of treatment to help you sustain your sobriety long-term.

Restored Path Detox is DFW’s premier location for sophisticated medical drug detox. Conveniently located in Frisco, we provide a safe sanctuary for healing that is also a state-of-the-art detoxification facility for a wide range of substances. Our compassionate physicians and therapists want you to get well and are committed to removing any existing barriers to your care. Restored Path’s board-certified medical professionals and highly qualified RNs have extensive critical care experience and are available to monitor your detox program 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol use, call us today and take your first step towards recovery: 469-827-0000.