Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms - lil' help please!

[Vicenzo]

I was initially prescribed fentanyl almost 10 years ago - it did finally stop my gut-wrenching, ER- necessitating migraines. And associated horrible pain. But I was alarmed about taking something so HEAVY. Over time we got it down to 50 mcg. But last fall the manufacturer apparently changed. The patches were now more like the generics - and no longer lasted even 1 full day (this after 10 years). I was changing them daily. Getting very toxic. It was decided I HAD to get off of them. Next thing I know, I woke up in hospital in restraints. I'll condense here. Post-hospital, I have felt terrible for almost 2 months. I'm on a mild stimulant so I can at least work. But insomnia, GI symptoms, generally feeling lousy. UTTER EXHAUSTION. Based on what everybody knows and/or has experienced, HOW LONG for this? And any suggestions for these symptoms (especially the exhaustion) in the meanwhile? Thank you, 10001 thnks in advance!

[Vicenzo]

That's encouraging, A - Sometimes I feel I will NEVER get there, but you're right, it'll happen. I appreciate the support. Let me know if I can ever do same for you - V

[ANewLife4Me]

You're welcome, I really hope you start feeling better and that maybe this 2nd shot helps you.  Glad your bloodwork is ok too.  Don't let what you hear get you down, it could be 8 weeks it could be another week, just go at your own pace.  You'll get there :)

[Vicenzo]

Thanks so much for the post, A. Blood work is ok. While in hospital, my potassium levels were dangerously low. I'm told fentanyl interferes with the body's production of it. Wish I knew that and much else earlier. I'd NO idea how powerful this stuff is - it just took away my migraines, didn't change how I felt otherwise.

You're so right, 10 years, a long time. I should keep that in mind when I'm tempted to feel sorry for myself. From all that I hear, I might still have 8 weeks of this utter exhaustion. Got a B-12 shot today, my 2nd one -- hopefully that'll help a little - first did nothing.
Hey, thanks again

[ANewLife4Me]

Hello,
I detoxed off of Fentanyl 4 years ago and it took me a good 14 days but I was only on the patch for a year, so I am considering myself very lucky in comparison to what you are going through.  Two months...wow, has your doctor ruled out anything else that could be wrong, have you had blood work done since you quit?  Ten years though, that's a very long time to be on something so strong and I would say it's going to take a while for your body to repair itself.  Are you trying to eat right and exercise?  That may help move things along a little.  Hang in there, there were a couple long term members here that came off Fentanyl, maybe they are still around and can chime in.  Good luck to you :)