Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid derived from morphine, is 50-100 times more powerful than its counterpart. While it has legitimate medical uses for managing severe pain after surgery or injury, it is also frequently manufactured and distributed illegally. This potent substance has become a leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Recovery from fentanyl addiction always begins with detoxification, a process that must be carried out under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What Makes Fentanyl Dangerous?
When prescribed by healthcare professionals, fentanyl is typically administered via injections, patches, or dissolvable lozenges. On the other hand, illegally produced fentanyl often appears in forms such as powder, blotter paper, eye drops, nasal sprays, or counterfeit pills. Prescription fentanyl is generally safer because its potency and contents are strictly regulated. The real danger lies in street-manufactured fentanyl, where there are no quality controls.
Illegally made fentanyl is often mixed with other substances like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine. This cuts manufacturing costs but drastically increases the risk of overdose for users. The lack of regulation makes it impossible for individuals to know the true strength or contents of the drug. In overdose situations, this uncertainty complicates emergency medical responses, as healthcare professionals cannot easily determine what substances have been consumed.
How Does Fentanyl Affect the Body?
Fentanyl, like other opioids, binds to the brain’s opioid receptors that regulate pain and emotions. However, its intense potency makes it particularly addictive. Over time, users may find it difficult to feel pleasure from anything other than the drug, fueling a cycle of dependency.
Some common effects of fentanyl use include:
- Intense euphoria
- Extreme drowsiness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Sedation
- Difficulty breathing
- Unconsciousness
As tolerance builds, users often need higher doses to achieve the same effects, increasing the risk of overdose and other complications.
Detox and Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction
Detoxification is the critical first step in overcoming fentanyl addiction. The process can be physically and emotionally taxing, which is why it requires medical supervision. Withdrawal symptoms typically begin a few hours after the last dose and peak within one to three days. For individuals with severe or long-term addiction, the withdrawal process can take longer and be more intense.
To ease the detox process, doctors may prescribe medications such as:
- Buprenorphine to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Naltrexone to block the effects of opioids
- Clonidine to manage anxiety and physical discomfort
Medical professionals closely monitor and adjust treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Following detox, individuals often transition into a residential rehabilitation program. This step is essential for preventing relapse and building long-term sobriety. Residential rehab provides 24/7 medical care, therapy, and activities designed to teach healthy coping mechanisms and relapse prevention strategies.
After completing residential treatment, many clients benefit from ongoing support through intensive outpatient programs (IOP) or partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Recovery is a journey filled with challenges, but having access to continuous care significantly increases the chances of lasting success.
Get Help for Fentanyl Addiction Today
If you or someone you love is battling fentanyl addiction, taking action early can save a life. At Solution Based Treatment, we offer a complete detox and recovery program tailored to each individual’s needs. From the initial detox process to long-term support, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Our team works with most major insurance providers to make treatment accessible and affordable. Don’t face this journey alone. Contact Solution Based Treatment today and take the first step toward lasting recovery.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.