Misusing fentanyl is dangerous. Whether it’s a prescription for pain management or illicit use, quitting requires support. Fentanyl detox can cause severe symptoms that start faster and feel more intense compared to other opioids.
However, recovery is worth it. At Painted Grove Recovery in Louisville, Kentucky, we believe in helping you take that first step toward wellness. Our medically supervised fentanyl detox programs prioritize your safety while respecting your dignity and addressing your unique needs. With compassionate care, we’re here to support you on this life-changing journey.
What is fentanyl detox?
In 2023, fentanyl and other opioids were linked to approximately 70% of all overdose deaths in the U.S. However, early 2024 provided a glimmer of hope with a reported 36% decline in fentanyl-related fatalities. Despite this progress, the danger remains significant, especially in communities where street fentanyl is prevalent. The unpredictable potency of a single dose continues to pose a serious threat.
Fentanyl detox is the first step in recovery—a medically supervised process designed to help your body safely clear the drug while easing symptoms and lowering the risk of relapse. At Painted Grove Recovery, our team provides 24/7 care so you don’t have to face withdrawal alone.
Detox is not just about getting through withdrawal—it’s about setting the stage for lasting healing. Our program emphasizes respect, dignity, and compassion while using evidence-based practices to keep you safe and supported. We understand that each person’s detox experience is unique, which is why we create personalized treatment plans tailored to your history, health needs, and recovery goals.
Is fentanyl withdrawal dangerous?
Fentanyl withdrawal is rarely life-threatening, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and risky without professional help. The biggest dangers are dehydration, severe mood changes, and intense cravings that may lead to relapse and overdose.
You should seek professional detox if:
- You have used fentanyl regularly for more than a few weeks
- You have experienced withdrawal before
- You also live with a mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- You’ve tried quitting on your own and relapsed
Our skilled detox team in Louisville is equipped to manage complications and deliver prompt, compassionate care whenever needed. We use a trauma-informed approach, recognizing that each person’s story is unique and deserves personalized support. Beginning detox in a medical setting reduces the risk of relapse during the most vulnerable stages of withdrawal and provides access to immediate help should complications arise.
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Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms and timeline: What to expect
Everyone’s detox journey is unique, but most people experience withdrawal in several stages:
Early symptoms (8–24 hours)
- Anxiety and agitation
- Sweating and chills
- Runny nose, watery eyes
- Body aches and headaches
These symptoms may feel like the flu, but can escalate quickly, especially when cravings intensify. Early intervention with comfort medications and emotional support makes a significant difference.
Peak symptoms (36–72 hours)
- Stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Goosebumps, shivering, and fatigue
- Strong cravings for fentanyl
Medical monitoring is critical during this stage. Our team provides fluids, medications, and emotional support to help you through the toughest days. These are often the most challenging moments, but with around-the-clock care, clients are supported through the worst of it.
Duration (7–10+ days)
- Most physical symptoms fade after the first week
- Psychological symptoms like cravings, anxiety, or depression may linger
By the end of the first week, many clients report feeling physically stronger, though emotional challenges often remain. Continued therapeutic support helps build resilience against these lingering effects.
Post-acute withdrawal (PAWS)
Some people continue experiencing mood swings, brain fog, or sleep disturbances for weeks or months. This stage is best managed with therapy and ongoing support. Recognizing that recovery is not linear, our team stays involved during PAWS to provide coping strategies and emotional reinforcement.
Medically supervised fentanyl detox: Evidence-based care
At Painted Grove Recovery, fentanyl detox is always medically supervised. Our Louisville detox program includes:
Comprehensive assessment and 24/7 monitoring
Our team completes a full health assessment to tailor your detox plan from the moment you arrive. Nurses and doctors are available around the clock to monitor vitals, address symptoms, and intervene quickly if complications arise. This close monitoring provides peace of mind and keeps you safe.
Comfort medications, hydration, and nutrition
We provide non-habit-forming medications for symptoms like nausea, insomnia, and anxiety. Clients also receive electrolyte drinks and protein-rich meals to support recovery. Proper hydration and nutrition are vital for restoring strength, energy, and balance to the body during detox.
Sleep support
Withdrawal often disrupts natural sleep cycles. To promote rest, we use safe, non-habit-forming approaches, such as calming routines and environment adjustments. Sleep is essential for healing, and we create an environment that encourages restorative rest whenever possible.
Emotional support
Detox can feel emotionally overwhelming. Licensed counselors are available to help you process fear, sadness, or cravings. This support reduces relapse risk and builds confidence for the days ahead. Having someone to talk to during the darkest hours makes detox more manageable and less isolating.
Compassionate detox and rehab at our center in Kentucky.
Residential fentanyl detox
Every client’s needs are different, and for those with fentanyl addiction, a residential setting provides the safest, most supportive environment. Painted Grove Recovery offers medical detox on a residential basis, ensuring clients have:
- 24/7 supervision: Continuous medical monitoring provides safety and allows for a rapid response to complications.
- Structured environment: Daily routines reduce stress and provide stability.
- Peer support: Sharing the journey with others helps reduce feelings of isolation.
- Transition planning: As symptoms subside, staff help clients plan the next steps in recovery.
Residential detox typically lasts 3–5 days at Painted Grove Recovery. By offering a controlled environment with limited outside stressors, clients can focus solely on healing and regaining strength before transitioning into the next phase of treatment.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for fentanyl addiction
Medication-assisted treatment helps reduce cravings and lower relapse risk during and after detox. At Painted Grove Recovery, we provide:
- Buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone): Helps manage withdrawal and blocks opioid effects.
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol, Brixadi): Blocks the effects of opioids and supports long-term recovery.
Why MAT matters
MAT isn’t just about medication—it’s about balance. You can focus on therapy, skill-building, and long-term healing when cravings are reduced. Studies show MAT lowers relapse rates and improves recovery outcomes. Our approach integrates MAT as part of a comprehensive care plan, rather than a stand-alone treatment.
MAT combined with therapy
MAT is paired with therapy—such as individual, group, and family therapy—to address the emotional side of recovery and strengthen support systems. Therapy helps clients develop tools to cope with triggers, process past trauma, and rebuild meaningful connections.
Managing withdrawal and preventing relapse
Recovery is about more than detox. At Painted Grove Recovery, we combine medical care with holistic healing strategies:
- Breathwork, meditation, and music therapy to reduce stress
- Trauma-informed therapy and relapse prevention planning
- Support groups like SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, and 12-step options
- Individual therapy to set personal goals
- Group therapy to build connection and accountability
Relapse prevention techniques
- Trigger identification: Learn to spot high-risk situations and create coping strategies
- Emergency planning: Build a safety net with contacts, resources, and supportive places to go
- Skill building: Practice mindfulness, journaling, and healthy routines to replace old habits
We also prepare you for long-term recovery through aftercare planning, connecting you with outpatient support, and helping you transition into healthier routines. Relapse prevention begins on day one of detox, and we work with each client to create a personalized plan for success.
Compassionate detox and rehab at our center in Kentucky.
Comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment
Detox is only the beginning. At Painted Grove Recovery, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care at every stage of the journey. Our approach is rooted in whole-person healing, which means we care for your physical, emotional, and mental health together—not in isolation.
Residential treatment
A safe, structured environment with daily schedules that include therapy, peer support, and life-skills training. This consistency helps you stabilize and grow in recovery.
Medication-assisted treatment
Long-term support with medications like Suboxone, Subutex, and Vivitrol, paired with therapy, to manage cravings and provide a foundation for lasting sobriety.
Therapies that heal
Individual, group, and family therapy are combined with holistic approaches such as breathwork, meditation, music therapy, and trauma-informed care. These methods address the root causes of addiction, help you build coping skills, and encourage emotional balance.
Co-occurring disorders treatment
For clients also living with depression, anxiety, or PTSD, integrated care addresses mental health needs alongside addiction for a more complete recovery.
We treat more than just substance use. We address trauma, mental health challenges, and the skills needed to thrive in daily life. By combining evidence-based care, holistic therapies, and supportive levels of treatment, our goal is to help you build a sustainable foundation for long-term recovery.
Understanding fentanyl overdose and emergency response
Because fentanyl is so potent, even small amounts can cause an overdose. Knowing the signs can save a life:
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue or gray lips or fingertips
- Unresponsiveness
- Gurgling or choking sounds
If you suspect an overdose:
- Call 911 immediately
- Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available
- Begin rescue breathing if necessary
- Stay with the person until help arrives
Harm reduction strategies
- Carry naloxone kits and know how to use them
- Avoid using alone—check-in systems save lives
- Use fentanyl test strips when possible to detect hidden risks
These strategies save lives and can serve as a bridge to treatment for those not yet ready to stop using. Painted Grove Recovery encourages harm reduction practices as part of our commitment to meeting people where they are in their recovery journey.
Begin your path to healing: Start fentanyl detox in Louisville
At Painted Grove Recovery, we’re committed to making healing within reach for everyone. We work with most major insurance providers, including Medicaid, to make accessing the care easier. With 24/7 admissions and transportation, you can take the first step toward recovery anytime—because your journey starts now.
If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl, you don’t have to go through it alone. Call us at 502.842.1425 or reach out online today to begin your recovery journey. Every day matters—taking action now could save your life or the life of someone you love.
Frequently asked questions about fentanyl detox
Painted Grove provides buprenorphine (Subutex, Suboxone) and naltrexone (Vivitrol, Brixadi). These are prescribed based on your medical needs and recovery goals.
Fentanyl is usually detectable in urine for one to three days, but withdrawal symptoms can last for over a week.
Detoxing at home is not recommended. The withdrawal process can be intense, and the risk of relapse is high without medical supervision.
Yes. We provide aftercare planning and referrals to ongoing therapy, outpatient care, and community support groups so you can maintain recovery long after detox.
We combine medical expertise with compassion. Our Louisville center offers Medicaid acceptance, transportation assistance, and a structured yet welcoming environment that supports whole-person healing.
At Painted Grove Recovery, our residential detox program is designed to provide comprehensive care and typically spans three to five days. This timeline helps you achieve medical stabilization and support before moving to the next stage of care.
Most clients transition into residential treatment or another structured program. This allows for continued therapy, relapse prevention training, and support in developing life skills necessary for long-term sobriety.
