Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is sometimes prescribed to relieve pain. It is many times stronger than other opioids like methadone. Due to its strength, it is also incredibly addictive. Prescription use is limited as the risk of developing a fentanyl addiction is high. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people who struggle with fentanyl addiction or addiction to other opioids fail to seek treatment.
Contact Midwest Detox Center at 833.647.0392 to learn more about substance abuse treatment programs.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl drugs come in many varieties. In fact, the number of different delivery methods for using fentanyl overshadows most other prescription drugs. It can be used as transdermal patches, in lozenge form, as a nasal spray, with dissolvable film strips, and as an injectable liquid. Whatever its form, fentanyl is a fast-acting, powerful pain reliever.
It binds with opioid receptors in the brain to regulate mood and alleviate pain. The problem is that abusing fentanyl hijacks the brain’s ability to function normally. Tolerance and dependence set in easily among people who use fentanyl drugs. Typical side effects from using fentanyl include:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Itchiness
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
More concerningly, fentanyl also slows the heart and depresses breathing. This makes fentanyl drugs extremely dangerous when it comes to overdose, as that can easily result in death. If you know someone who struggles with a fentanyl addiction, it is worth understanding the common fentanyl overdose symptoms in order to intervene in a timely manner.
Fentanyl overdose symptoms range from blue-tinted lips and fingernails to limp limbs, vomiting, and cold, clammy skin. Slow breathing, loss of consciousness, or a pulse that is difficult to find are also tell-tale fentanyl overdose symptoms. When in doubt, err on the side of caution. Emergency services are usually equipped with naloxone, a drug that reverses the effect of a fentanyl overdose. Calling them promptly if you suspect a fentanyl overdose is occurring could save a life.
What Does Fentanyl Treatment Look Like?
Fentanyl treatment starts with fentanyl detox. It is necessary to remove the drug from the body. Full detox takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The timing depends on the severity of the fentanyl addiction in question and how long someone had been using fentanyl. Fentanyl detox can be complicated by the presence of withdrawal symptoms. Treatment providers like Midwest Detox Center do everything possible to provide a comfortable, safe environment during fentanyl detox. Nonetheless, you should not expect fentanyl detox to be a walk in the park.
Fentanyl detox is followed by fentanyl treatment. Treating a fentanyl addiction takes time. The recovery process may extend to a year or more. Midwest Detox Center utilizes a medication-assisted treatment approach in the case of fentanyl addiction. Medications like buprenorphine and methadone can be taken during recovery to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, cut down on cravings, and support stable recovery.
Behavioral therapies are another foundational technique in fentanyl treatment. Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and more all work to address the underlying causes leading to addiction. Over time, patients learn how to implement coping mechanisms, avoid triggers, and navigate sober living.
Find Fentanyl Help With Midwest Detox Center
Midwest Detox Center is a premier provider of fentanyl rehab. Your recovery goals are prioritized through an individualized treatment plan. You can expect therapy, medication-assisted treatment, access to support groups, educational resources, and more.
Midwest Detox Center understands the role that mental health plays in recovery. Many people struggle with what is known as co-occurring disorders. That means they have a mental health disorder alongside a substance abuse disorder. Untangling both simultaneously is not impossible, though it requires dedication to treatment and recognizing that quick fixes are unrealistic. No matter where you are in your recovery journey, Midwest Detox Center can help get you where you want to go.
Find healing and fentanyl help by calling 833.647.0392 or filling out the online form.