How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you may be concerned about the harm that habitual drug use can cause. You may also have learned about the rise of fentanyl, a dangerous substance that has made illicit drug use even more unsafe. Though it can be scary to learn of the dangers of fentanyl, learning about its consequences can help motivate those who are struggling with addiction to make meaningful changes to stay out of harm’s way.
So what is fentanyl, and why has it become such a prominent issue in the United States? Read on to learn about the origins of fentanyl, its effects on the body, and why avoiding unregulated drug use is the only way to protect yourself from this high-risk substance.
The Rise of Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid originally intended for severe pain management. It has gained notoriety due to its high potency—up to 100 times stronger than morphine—and its role in the opioid epidemic. Initially used in medical settings, illicit fentanyl has flooded the streets, often mixed with other drugs like heroin or cocaine without users’ knowledge, leading to a surge in overdoses and fatalities.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drug overdose deaths from the use of synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, increased by 56% between 2019 and 2020. This alarming statistic underscores the deadly impact of fentanyl misuse and its pervasive presence in communities across the United States.
Fentanyl Abuse in Texas: Statistics and Impact
Texas, like many other states, has not been spared from the fentanyl crisis. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, fentanyl-related deaths have risen sharply in recent years. In 2020 alone, Texas reported over 2,000 opioid overdose deaths, a significant portion of which involved fentanyl. The accessibility and potency of illicitly manufactured fentanyl have made it a prevalent threat to public health in urban and rural areas alike.
How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, acts on the body’s central nervous system, altering the way it perceives pain and pleasure. Fentanyl’s high potency means it can rapidly induce profound sedation and respiratory depression, which is particularly dangerous and can lead to respiratory arrest and death. Its high potency also increases the risk of accidental overdose, as even small amounts can be lethal.
Fentanyl poses the greatest dangers to users within hours of ingestion, but it actually remains in the body for some time beyond that. Here are some general guidelines:
- Blood: Fentanyl can typically be detected in blood tests for up to 12 hours after use.
- Urine: Fentanyl and its metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 3 days.
- Saliva: Saliva tests can detect fentanyl for up to 2 days after use.
- Hair: Fentanyl can be detected in hair follicle tests for up to 90 days or more.
It’s important to note that these are general estimates and can vary widely depending on individual factors and the specifics of each case.
Protect Yourself from Fentanyl
The prevalence of fentanyl nationally underscores the urgent need for education, prevention, and treatment efforts. Though it may be scary to learn about, understanding the hazards of fentanyl can save lives.
Ultimately, the only way to truly avoid the dangers of fentanyl is to stay away from illegal drugs. However, at Serenity Light Recovery, we understand that breaking a substance dependency is no easy feat, requiring dedication, hard work, and a team of compassionate professionals to support you through every stage of recovery. We are here to help you or a loved one overcome drug addiction and take back the reins on a healthy, happy life. To start the process, reach out to our admissions team, who can guide you through insurance verification and help you get the recovery you need.
Start today. Find serenity in the Chaos.
FAQs about Fentanyl
What are the signs of fentanyl overdose?
Signs of a fentanyl overdose include slow or shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, dizziness, confusion, and unconsciousness. Immediate medical attention is critical.
Is fentanyl legally prescribed?
Yes, fentanyl is legally prescribed by doctors for severe pain management, such as in cancer treatment or end-of-life care. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is illegal and extremely dangerous.
How can fentanyl overdose be reversed?
Naloxone (Narcan) is an opioid antagonist that can reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if administered promptly. It is available as a nasal spray or injection and is used by emergency responders and medical professionals.
What should I do if I suspect someone has overdosed on fentanyl?
Call emergency services immediately. While waiting for help, if available, administer naloxone if you are trained to do so and continue to monitor the person’s breathing and consciousness.
As our CEO, Heather’s main calling is to stay true to the vision of the organization, which is saving lives and striving to redefine statistics by raising the standard of care with evolving treatment methods. Heather studied psychology at LSU and both the main and Clear Lake campuses of the University of Houston, and she is a certified IASIS provider and CPI instructor. She’s been helping people in recovery since 2011. Heather’s motto to live by is “I am not what I’ve done; I am what I’ve overcome.”
