The United States of America has been fighting an opioid crisis for more than two decades now, and it doesn’t seem like it will end anytime soon. Prescription opioids like fentanyl are more hazardous than heroin, however, not many people are aware of this. Being dependent on a drug like fentanyl is challenging as this substance can be lethal if overdosed. Furthermore, fentanyl is been cut with other drugs nowadays, including meth, cocaine, MDMA, and others. Our society is in danger, thus we must take all necessary measures to prevent this epidemic from spreading.
The idea of going through fentanyl detox may be frightening for individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction especially when they think about the withdrawal symptoms. However, you don’t have to. A medical fentanyl detox from a renowned rehab like Skyward Treatment Center is the most appropriate at this point. This article is an analysis of fentanyl addiction, its signs, withdrawal symptoms, benefits of medical fentanyl detox, medications used during fentanyl detox as well as fentanyl addiction treatment options in Houston.
What is Fentanyl Addiction?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is often administered to manage acute pain, particularly after surgery. The effects of this substance are comparable to those of morphine, although fentanyl is 50–100 times more potent. Fentanyl addiction is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of opioid addiction that has become a major public health crisis, particularly in the United States.
What are The Signs of Fentanyl Addiction?
Most fentanyl abusers swiftly develop a tolerance to the drug. Tolerance means needing a higher dosage of the drug to achieve the same results. This is one of the major signs of addiction.
Other signs of fentanyl addiction include:
- A continued use of the drug despite the side effects.
- Neglecting personal responsibilities like work or school in pursuit of the drug.
- Using the medication more often or in larger quantities than recommended in case of a fentanyl prescription.
- Combining fentanyl with alcohol or other substances to intensify the high.
- Being unable to stop abusing fentanyl.
- Partaking in dangerous actions while under the influence of fentanyl, such as DUI (driving under the influence) or partaking in unprotected sex.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Due to the body being dependent on fentanyl, most individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction experience some withdrawal symptoms if they cease using or minimize the amount. It is like your body reminding you to take the drug. The fentanyl withdrawal symptoms include:
- Strong cravings.
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Muscle aches.
- Runny nose.
- Insomnia
- Teary eyes.
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps.
- Goosebumps
- Dilated pupils.
- Potentially dangerous side effects like dehydration, elevated blood pressure, and fast heartbeat.
The symptoms may be unbearable, and managing them safely often calls for a medical fentanyl detox.
Benefits of Medical Fentanyl Detox
Medically assisted withdrawal management or medical detox refers to the medical measures used to address acute withdrawal. For an opioid use problem, detoxification and withdrawal management are not regarded as the main forms of therapy. It is a first step for people who require assistance starting their recovery from opioid addiction and has several advantages when utilized as part of an all-encompassing treatment plan. The benefits include:
- Lowers the possibility of relapsing when on withdrawal.
- Minimizes cravings for opioids.
- Lessens the discomfort and pain connected with opioid withdrawal.
- Lower the probability of experiencing negative psychological and physical complications.
- Lowers the likelihood of overdose and overdose-related death.
- Sets the pace for long-term opioid addiction treatment after detox.
Medications Used During Fentanyl Detox
The fentanyl detox experts will determine which medication(s) to be administered based on each client’s withdrawal symptoms. Opioid agonists, such as methadone or buprenorphine, are administered occasionally. Certain symptoms may also be treated with additional medications. For instance, anti-diarrhea or anti-anxiety drugs may be used as required.
Take The First Step Towards Fentanyl Addiction Recovery Today! Contact Skyward Treatment Center in Houston, TX.
As we all know, fentanyl is a dangerous drug, and it’s a substance that most users lose their lives to. We at Skyward Treatment Center are capable of disrupting this pattern. Our specialized fentanyl addiction treatment program is designed to make sure that every patient receives the help and attention they need throughout their detoxification and withdrawal stages. Furthermore, you can always count on our team of physicians and experienced medical specialists to support you at every turn. So let’s break the cycle today, and let’s end this opioid epidemic for good with the help of our team at Skyward Treatment
