Drug overdose deaths have dramatically increased during the past ten years. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid intended to treat patients with either chronic or severe pain after surgery, is mostly to blame for this increase.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overdose deaths in the United States increased in 2021-2022. And most deaths are caused by fentanyl overdose.
What Exactly is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a type of synthetic opioid. It is 50–100 times stronger than morphine but has the same purpose. Doctors typically use this medication to treat severe post-operation pain, as well as chronic pain. Pharmaceutical fentanyl comes in injections, lozenges, and patch forms.
Despite being prescribed medication, more Americans can obtain fentanyl illegally and without a prescription. Fentanyl sold on the street is illegally manufactured in laboratories. It has a powdery or pill-like appearance.
What Does Fentanyl Addiction Do To You?
Some individuals did not deliberately use fentanyl to develop addictions. Fentanyl is usually the only drug that can relieve their extreme discomfort. However, abusing it or using it without a doctor’s prescription can lead to addiction.
Fentanyl is a very strong drug. Because of this, using it just once or twice can cause dependence. Here are the signs of fentanyl addiction:
- Tolerance
- Euphoria
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Elevated mood
- Anxiety or depression
- Stomach and intestinal discomfort
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme fatigue
- Swollen hands and feet
- Muscle stiffness
- Slurred speech
- Itching
- Dizziness
- Weight loss
- Poor hygiene
- Increased heart rate
- Breathing problems
- Suicidal thoughts
What Are the Treatment Options for Fentanyl Addiction?
It is important to note that to win against fentanyl addiction, people need to accept they need help.
Detoxification is the first step in a fentanyl treatment program for the majority of patients. This essential first stage of treatment, sometimes known as detox, helps patients to completely cleanse their bodies of any residues of fentanyl.
But it is important to note that after detoxing, the body will exhibit withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild to severe. It is the reason why detoxing at home is not recommended.
During detox, medication is used to assist patients in overcoming these potentially uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. The staff also keeps an eye on the client’s vitals while they are in detox. It ensures the recovering person’s safety and comfort.
After completing detox, the next step is phycological healing which includes,
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Family Therapy
- Group Therapy
Where to Seek Help for Fentanyl Addiction?
If you want to recover from fentanyl addiction, Skyward Treatment is here for you. Our medical staff are all licensed experts ready to guide you.
If you want to learn more about our Fentanyl Addiction Treatment, do not hesitate to reach out. We are located in Houston, Texas.
Start your recovery now!