The prevalence of fentanyl addiction and overdose deaths are increasing for a variety of reasons. Fentanyl is still extremely harmful and has the potential to ruin your life.
Every year, the Fentanyl epidemic in the US gets worse. In Texas, the incidence of overdose deaths caused by fentanyl increased from 883 in 2020 to 1,672 in 2021.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than morphine. It was developed to help people with their chronic pain from surgery, cancer treatment, and more. But more people are abusing this drug by buying from illicit drug dealers.
Why is Fentanyl Addictive?
Fentanyl is addictive because of the way it interferes with its function inside the body. Fentanyl will attach to the body’s pain receptors when consumed or used by a person.
Fentanyl releases a large amount of dopamine, which causes euphoria and a wonderful feeling in addition to relieving pain. That is the reason a person who has a mental health issue takes this medication.
Also, someone who takes fentanyl rapidly becomes tolerant of it. When the body becomes accustomed to a medicine, it will no longer have the same impact as before, requiring a higher dosage each time.
Anytime someone tries to cut back or stop taking fentanyl, withdrawal symptoms will come as a result of the body becoming dependent on the drug.
However, the use of fentanyl may cause a variety of negative side effects. Some of the negative effects of fentanyl include,
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Dry mouth
- Mood changes
- Constipation
- Nausea/vomiting
- Urinary changes
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Irregular heartbeat
- Slowed breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
Additionally, it can cause an overdose which can be fatal. Overdose symptoms include,
- Severely slowed, or stopped, breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Limp muscles
- Loss of consciousness
- Slowed heartbeat and low blood pressure
- Cold and clammy skin which may have a blue tint or pale color
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Skyward Treatment
If you or someone you care about is struggling with fentanyl, there are various treatment options available at Skyward Treatment. A top-rated fentanyl treatment is individualized to meet each person’s needs it may include:
Medically Assisted Detox
To control cravings and withdrawal symptoms, this type of treatment involves medication. A lot of times, other treatments, like therapy and counseling, are used in line with Medically Assisted Detox.
Residential Treatment
Usually, this is the best treatment option for fentanyl addiction. Staying at a facility where you will receive care and supervision around-the-clock is also known as Inpatient Treatment. This frees your mind from daily obligations so that you can concentrate on your recovery.
Intensive Outpatient Program
Living at home while undergoing daytime therapy sessions is possible with an Intensive Outpatient Program. If you have a solid support system at home, this is a good alternative.
Do not hesitate to get help if you or someone you know is battling fentanyl addiction. Recovery is achievable. And there are various therapy alternatives here at Skyward Treatment.
Our facility is located safely in Houston, Texas. Start your recovery now and give us a call today.