Signs of a fentanyl addiction
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and is medically used to relieve pain. Even small doses of fentanyl are extremely potent. It’s also fast-acting and affects the body immediately after taking it.
Its potency is what leads to addiction. And once an addiction forms, it’s hard to break because the body becomes dependent on the drug.
It’s possible to abuse fentanyl or become addicted to it even if a doctor has prescribed it. That’s why it’s important to follow your doctor’s prescription carefully and to report signs of dependency or abuse right away.
So, how do you know if you or someone else is addicted to fentanyl?
Signs and symptoms of a fentanyl addiction may include:
- cravings and urges to use fentanyl
- taking more of the drug in larger doses
- being unable to quit fentanyl
- experiencing symptoms of withdrawal
- interruptions at school or work because of fentanyl abuse
- using fentanyl even though it’s harming one’s body
Treatment for fentanyl addiction
Withdrawal can cause debilitating symptoms and even lead to serious complications, such as seizures, hallucinations, and coma. Once an addiction forms, it’s safest to detox from fentanyl in a medically supervised environment.
We do not recommend going “cold turkey,” as this can lead to serious complications. Detoxing in a drug treatment center provides an extra level of comfort and care to help make the process easier.
There are two types of treatment options for fentanyl detox: inpatient residential and outpatient.
Inpatient treatment involves staying in a treatment facility usually for 30, 60, or 90 days. During treatment, the patient follows a doctor’s program and attends therapy and other programs to help them detox from fentanyl. This is ideal for people who have a serious addiction and require intense detox.
Outpatient treatment is less intense and may require the patient to visit the treatment center during the day. They’ll attend therapy and participate in their treatment plan and then return home.
After treatment, the patient will begin aftercare services, which may include additional therapy or exercises to help stay drug-free.
What to expect with fentanyl detox at Skyward Treatment Center
Withdrawal symptoms begin about 12-30 hours after taking fentanyl. Some people feel like they’re coming down with the flu, while others experience more serious symptoms.
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms include:
- sweating
- restlessness
- tearing up
- runny nose
- chills
- backache
- stomach cramps
- pain in joints and muscles
- body hair standing on end, or bristling
- muscle weakness
- nausea and vomiting
- anorexia
- diarrhea
- elevated heart rate
- hypertension
- increased respiratory rate
- insomnia
- anxiety
In an inpatient detox setting, a care team can help alleviate some of these symptoms with medication. They’ll also monitor your symptoms and address any concerning side effects right away.
For outpatient programs, you can always report any side effects to your doctor and visit the center for additional care.
At Skyward Treatment Center, we’re available 24/7 and offer same-day admissions. Our treatment options range from monitored outpatient programs to inpatient residential programs for people who need more intense detox and treatment.
Call 713-815-4471 or complete our online form to learn more.