Fentanyl patch withdrawal

[Wooster67]

I have read the posts on Fentanyl patch withdrawal.  While there is much information, none of them clearly state:
How long does the withdrawal last?
It has been 4 days.  I was on 75 mg patches for about 6 months and stopped cold turkey 4 days ago.  I decided I have to stop, regardless of what the pain specialist says.  I want to be off these things.
I have been through several symptoms but have some important things planned this week.  I need to travel, I need to be attentive.  Can I make it through?  I considered going on a smaller dosage so I would be competent this week but don't want to have wasted the 4 days I put in to this.
Suggestions?

[Wooster67]

Thank you Lilly.  I will have to start over next week.  It was a terrible time to pick.  During that 4 days I was off the patch, I managed to host a dinner party for 15 people.  It went well but I felt terrible at the end of the evening.  I just have too many demands on me for the rest of the week to manage it.  I now have a preview of what withdrawal is lie.  Next week, here I come!

[Wooster67]

Thank you, Strictly, I appreciate it very much.  Unfortunately, I can not take Immodium due to liver issues.  I have Zofran for chemo induced nauesa.  That sould help with the vomitting but as to the other....I regret that I am going to have to manage that Sx on my own.  :-(

[Wooster67]

Intresting that you phrased your answer the way you did.  My doctor has csalled me a "fast metabolizer".  It usually works against me but this once, it has come in handy!

[Wooster67]

Thanks everyone.  I decided last night (before any replies had been submitted) to go back on he patch to get through this weekend.  I cut about 1/3 of the new patch off.  I had to get my daughter off on a trip to Europe and tomorrow I have to head out of town for several days.  When I get back next week, I am going to go off the patch again.  I simply could not perform all of these tasks with the upset bowels, sneezing, RLS and everything else.  I was fearful but it is nice to know I was about 1/2 to my goal.  If I made it that far, i shouldn't be a problem to do it next week.  It was remiss of me not to look at my schedule before doing this.  I just decided not to replace my patch and didn't  Next week, it will be more thought out.
I will keep everyone posted and thank you again for all of your input!  It is very much appreciated.  :-)
Oh!  If I don't show back up it is because I keep having trouble logging in.  I contacted Customer Service.  I asked them if logging in will continue to be an issue and if so, my account can just be deleted.  Hopefully, they will be able to solve the problem without deleting my acct.
Have a great day people.

[strictlyforpain]

I've been tapering about 20 Mcg a day and it takes me about 3 days to make the next step and it's not really anything terrible. I think (if your doctor will assist you) that tapering is the most sensible option. If your doctor won't taper you then get some Clonodine .1mg tablets and some Phinergan 25mg tablets.  

Those two SHIELDS will protect you as you fall. Clonodine lowers the anxiety (as do long walks and lots of water) AVOID CAFFEINE IN ANY FORM. For alertness try an apple when you need a clear head.

The Phinergan will make your stomach behave better. Oh and ... Immodium may not be a bad ace in the whole. I've needed it and lots of Gas-X.

I'm right next to you though. If you need a peer-to-peer. Look me up. I'll tell you this. I jumped (with no parachute) from 150Mcg a day to 50Mcg a day and it was over for me in four days but I've only been on the big nasty Fentanyl for 30 days.

Keep the faith!

[waterLilly7]

Good job, don't go back. I too have to perform, and its hard, but remember when you are anxious that they don't know.
Just keep pushing through. You made it this far, you will make it!
hugs,
Lily