How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?

There are a few reasons why someone might wonder, “How long does fentanyl stay in your system?” Some may ask this because they are considering entering rehab, and want to prepare for the detox and withdrawal process. Others may ask this question because they are concerned about an upcoming drug test.

Regardless how long fentanyl remains in the system, this powerful drug continues to plague the nation, albeit in declining numbers. According to Dr. Nora Volkow, the most recent data show fentanyl deaths have declined about 30% from the peak. Read on to learn how long fentanyl stays in the system, and about the very real risks of fentanyl use.

About Fentanyl

When discussing fentanyl, it is important to distinguish between the two types of the drug. One type of fentanyl is a licit pharmaceutical opioid that’s used mostly for pain management in terminal cancer patients. The other is the illicit fentanyl copies that are manufactured in foreign labs.

It is the latter type, the illicit analogs that are responsible for the vast majority of fentanyl-related drug deaths. This is because the cheap fentanyl copies are not tested for purity or dose consistency, which may result in overdose.

Both types of fentanyl induce the following effects:

• Sedation
• Pain relief
• Euphoria
• Relaxation
• Slowed respiratory rate
• Dizziness
• Confusion

Fentanyl is produced in various forms. These include tablet form, nasal sprays, transdermal patches, injectable solution, lozenges, and blotter paper.

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in your System?

Fentanyl has a half-life of about seven hours. This means the drug may take more than 35 hours to clear the body. In fact, fentanyl can remain detectible in the blood for 1-4 days and in urine and saliva for 1-3 days. Fentanyl may be present in hair follicle tests for months.

Factors that influence how long fentanyl stays in your system include:

• Usual fentanyl dose
• Frequency of fentanyl use
• Body mass index
• Hydration level
• Age
• Genetics
• Metabolic rate
• Liver function efficiency
• Kidney function efficiency
• Method of fentanyl delivery (injection, smoking, or oral tablets)

Signs of Fentanyl Addiction

Individuals asking, “How long does fentanyl stay in your system?” may be struggling with an opioid addiction. When the drug involves fentanyl, it is critical to recognize the signs of addiction and seek intervention.

Signs of fentanyl addiction include:

• Being unable to control the fentanyl use, despite its negative consequences and risks
• Persistent fentanyl cravings and being hyperfocused on obtaining the drug
• Experiencing increasing tolerance to the effects of fentanyl that lead to increased dosing
• Neglecting responsibilities at home and at work
• Withdrawing from relationships and social activities
• Experiencing physical health issues, such as respiratory problems, gastrointestinal distress, and weakened immune function
• Experiencing mental health issues, such as paranoia, psychosis, depression or anxiety in tandem with fentanyl use
• Having withdrawals when the fentanyl wears off

Dangers of Fentanyl

Recent data show encouraging signs that fentanyl-related deaths are declining. Two explanations for the decline include the wider availability of naloxone and that users now take lower doses of fentanyl.

However, it is important to remember that tens of thousands of people still die from fentanyl each year. Illicit fentanyl analogs continue to be distributed in the U.S., both as fentanyl and also inserted into other illicit drugs.

While dying from a fentanyl overdose remains the most tragic effect of the drug, there are other risks as well. These include:

• Poor quality control. Foreign labs that produce the fentanyl copies practice no quality control or oversight over the ingredients used or purity.
• Health consequences. Fentanyl abuse and addiction is associated with seizures, heart arrhythmias, and symptoms of psychosis.
• Addiction. Fentanyl is a highly addictive opioid; Continued use of fentanyl often leads to dependency and addiction.
• Overdose. Fentanyl may be mixed into a different drug, such as cocaine, and the user has no knowledge of it. A tiny amount of fentanyl can cause an overdose.

Signs of Fentanyl Overdose

Fentanyl poisoning is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Quick response by first responders or trained family members with naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the respiratory failure, saving a life.

Signs of fentanyl overdose include:

• Blue-tinged lips and fingernails
• Low blood pressure
• Slowed heart rate
• Body becomes limp
• Feeling extremely sedated
• Difficulty breathing; slowed breathing
• Choking or gurgling soundsPinpoint pupils
• Loss of physical coordination, unable to walk
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Cold, clammy skin
• Confusion
• Coma

The Dangerous ‘Tranq’ Xylazine & Fentanyl Trend

In recent years, a new drug trend called “tranq-dope” emerged involving a combination of fentanyl and xylazine. In July of 2023, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy declared tranq-dope an emerging threat.

Xylazine is a non-opioid vet tranquilizer that is not approved for human use and causes deep sedating effects. Xylazine is added to other street drugs like fentanyl to enhance each drug’s effects. Xylazine combined with fentanyl can quickly cause very low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, slowed heart rate, and sedation. The most serious risk of tranq-dope is overdose that results in death.

Getting Help for Fentanyl Addiction

To break the grip of a fentanyl addiction, a comprehensive rehab program is needed. Opioid recovery is best achieved within a residential rehab setting where you will receive intensive treatment within a structured environment. Treatment is multi-dimensional and includes the following elements:

• Detox and withdrawal. Detox support provides medical and psychological assistance as withdrawal symptoms emerge and intensify.
• Individual therapy sessions. One-on-one talk therapy sessions utilize cognitive behavioral therapy to guide you toward adopting healthy thought/behavior patterns.
• Group therapy sessions. Small group gatherings provide a safe space to chat about topics related to addiction and recovery.
• Family therapy sessions. Family group work can help members tackle various issues, like enabling, codependency, boundary setting, and rebuilding trust.
• Medication management. Medication can be a useful tool during fentanyl recovery.
• Holistic activities. Relaxation techniques, like meditation and yoga, are helpful in rehab and in recovery. Other holistic activities include art therapy, acupuncture, and equine therapy.

Wellness Retreat Recovery Center Provides Comprehensive Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction

Wellness Retreat Recovery Center offers hope to individuals struggling with fentanyl or any opioid dependency or addiction. If you are asking, “How love does fentanyl stay in your system,” you may need professional support to overcome addiction. To learn more about our program, please reach out to us today at 877) 237-1290.