What Medications Are Prescribed to Treat Fentanyl Withdrawal Syndrome
Medications are prescribed to help manage fentanyl withdrawal syndrome symptoms, detoxify your body, and prevent complications during the fentanyl withdrawal process. The specific medication provided will be based on the severity of your condition. Below are some key methods that are commonly utilized to support you throughout your fentanyl detox program:
Methadone
As a long-acting opioid medication, methadone can be used to treat opioid use disorders (OUDs) like fentanyl addiction. Methadone will help reduce your fentanyl cravings and fentanyl withdrawal symptoms, helping your body stabilize. It also reduces your risk of relapse.
Buprenorphine
This is a key medication when it comes to managing fentanyl withdrawal because it is a partial opioid agonist that binds to the same opioid receptors in your brain as fentanyl. Buprenorphine will assist in easing your fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and fentanyl cravings, reduce your risk of overdose, and help you transition into recovery treatment.
Clonidine
Clonidine is also used as a medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms from opioids like fentanyl because it decreases anxiety, physical symptoms, and agitation. It does this by reducing the release of norepinephrine.
Naltrexone
Naltrexone, which is commonly used to help manage opioid use disorders (OUDs) like fentanyl addiction, prevents opioids from producing a high. Still, you must be in complete detox before using it. It’s also not typically used during the acute withdrawal phase because it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.
Over-the-Counter Medications
There are several over-the-counter medications used to alleviate fentanyl withdrawal symptoms. None of these medications will address the underlying fentanyl withdrawal process; instead, they will only keep your symptoms manageable.
Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are best for muscle aches and pains. If you’re dealing with gastrointestinal symptoms, Loperamide will reduce diarrhea, and Bismuth subsalicylate will relieve nausea. Melatonin and Diphenhydramine can assist with sleep disturbances and restlessness. There are also herbal remedies, like valerian root or chamomile tea, that can aid with anxiety and restlessness.