Did you know that there is a synthetic opioid with a 50–100 times higher potency than morphine? Yes, it is called fentanyl. It is a prescription medication used to alleviate extreme pain from surgery, cancer treatment, and more.
Also, doctors prescribe fentanyl to patients with chronic pain who become tolerant to other opioid painkillers. Fentanyl is administered by doctors as injections, patches, or lozenges. There are two kinds of fentanyl, pharmaceutical fentanyl, and illicitly manufactured fentanyl.
Pharmaceutical fentanyl is used in the medical field. People need a prescription from doctors to acquire this. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is sold underground and on the streets. Plus, it causes multiple death by overdose in the country.
Statistics Surrounding Fentanyl
- In 12 months ending in January 2022, the CDC reports that 107,375 Americans died from drug overdoses and drug poisonings. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl were involved in 67% of the fatalities.
- A number of these fatalities were due to fentanyl combined with illegal substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin. Many users weren’t even aware they were taking fentanyl.
- Merely two milligrams of fentanyl are potentially fatal doses.
- Today, there is an opioid epidemic in the US.
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction
There are common symptoms to be aware of, although the symptoms of fentanyl addiction will vary based on the individual. A few of these include,
- Behavioral changes
- Psychological Changes
- Physical Changes
- Financial problems
- Legal troubles
- Withdrawal symptoms
Get help as soon as you can if you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms. Fentanyl addiction is a highly serious disorder that, if left untreated, can be fatal.
What Are the Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction?
Fentanyl addiction is treatable, and there are several treatment programs available for fentanyl addiction. These include the following:
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 – call us!