The drug generically named fentanyl, marketed in the United States as Duragesic, is a narcotic analgesic that is used in the treatment of severe pain, particularly long-term pain. A physician or surgeon also may prescribe the medication after major surgery. Fentanyl may be administered as a transdermal patch that releases the medication gradually through the skin. Because fentanyl is a narcotic, it can be addictive, so withdrawal side effects may be intense.
Pain and Cramps
When the person using fentanyl for an extended period stops taking the pain reliever, he may experience serious withdrawal effects of the medication. For example, she might feel aches and pains throughout her body. He also may experience cramps, which are spasms of the muscles, in his stomach. The Mayo Clinic recommends contacting a physician immediately for these types of withdrawal symptoms.
Flu-Like Side Effects
Many medications may cause side effects that mimic the flu or a cold while they are being taken. With fentanyl, these may occur after cessation of the drug. The person withdrawing from fentanyl, for example, may experience side effects such as running a fever or a temperature higher than normal. The individual also may sneeze and get a runny nose. These, too, are serious withdrawal side effects of the medicine and should be reported to a medical professional immediately, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Restlessness
Because the fentanyl user is experiencing a change in body chemistry without the drug in his system, it can cause the heart rate to speed up beyond the normal rate. If the heart beats faster than 100 times per minute while the individual is inactive, it is too fast. This condition, known as tachycardia, can have serious implications if it continues because it is causing strain and a work overload for the heart. The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting a physician if this side effect occurs after cessation of fentanyl use.
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