Now more than ever, Fentanyl is becoming an increasingly prevalent drug in America. Fentanyl is incredibly dangerous, and an increase in popularity has led to a surge in opioid deaths worldwide. Because of its high potency, more and more drug dealers are lacing other drugs, such as cocaine, to increase the effects of the drug. The result? Higher addiction rates and increased overdoses, and even death.
If you or someone you love is experiencing an addiction to Fentanyl, help is available. Due to its dangerous nature, it is important to act quickly if you are experiencing addiction and receive professional help as quickly as possible. Our team at Quit Alcohol is here to provide you with reliable resources so you can access reliable information and choose a rehab center near you that is accommodating to your needs. Read on to learn more about Fentanyl and how professional treatment can help.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a narcotic often used to treat severe pain. According to studies, Fentanyl is 50-70 times more powerful than morphine, making it a dangerous substance that can quickly lead to overdose. Fentanyl is a prescription opioid and is often bought and sold illegally.
A person taking prescription Fentanyl is often treated for severe or chronic pain, such as cancer patients. Additionally, patients who take fentanyl often already have a tolerance for other opioids.
Forms of Fentanyl
When prescribed by a doctor, Fentanyl is administered by injection, lozenges, or a patch. When bought illegally, Fentanyl comes in various forms, such as nasal sprays, pills, or even eye droppers providing several ways for an individual to become addicted.
Opioid Addiction and Fentanyl Drug Abuse
Fentanyl overdose is one of the leading causes of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45, according to the CDC. Using Fentanyl can change one’s brain chemistry as the brain adapts. Fentanyl can impact the portion of the brain that is linked to emotions and pain. Those who struggle with Fentanyl addiction will find it difficult to feel happiness or pleasure without using the drug as they’ve also developed a psychological dependence on the drug.
As previously mentioned, illicitly manufactured Fentanyl makes it fairly easy to access as drug dealers will disguise it as other common prescription opioids. Many of the harmful consequences of the drug stem from dealers mixing fentanyl with other drugs, such as cocaine, to produce a bigger “high” and more intense cravings for the drug unbeknownst to the Fentanyl user.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you know is addicted to Fentanyl or other opioids, there are treatment options available for you. Opioid drugs are often easy to access, and users may not realize how dangerous they can be. Fentanyl use is widespread, and the overdose risk is high compared to other synthetic opioids due to how potent the drug is.
If you or a loved one struggles with substance use disorder and is seeking addiction treatment, there are options for you.
Drug Treatment Facilities for Fentanyl Addiction
Addiction treatment facilities typically offer two main types of treatment programs that differ in form: Inpatient and Outpatient programs. Determining what level of care you need can often be difficult and overwhelming. Our team at Quit Alcohol is here to provide you with guidance and support as you choose a facility that fits your needs:
Inpatient Treatment Facility
Inpatient treatment programs offer a wide range of services that help those struggling with mental health alongside their addiction. Oftentimes there are long hours of therapy and clinical support to assist the patient. Treatment lasts for months with the patient residing at the treatment facility.
Inpatient treatment facilities are often in a hospital setting, whereas residential treatment facilities (very similar to inpatient) have more of a comfortable “home-like” feel. Inpatient/residential treatment is recommended for those with more severe addictions, as there is more access to care in a safe environment.
Outpatient Treatment Facility
Outpatient drug rehab can extend for a similar amount of time as inpatient treatment but with fewer hours. The patient will reside in their home but commute to a treatment facility a few times per week for a couple of hours. Outpatient treatment is helpful for those with less severe addictions who also live in a safe and supportive home environment conducive to their addiction recovery journey.
The Treatment Process: Fentanyl Addiction
The treatment process for substance abuse and addiction looks different for each patient. For some, it may involve a specific type of therapy, such as behavioral therapies, whereas others may spend more time in the initial detox phase learning to overcome fentanyl drug cravings with the help of medical staff and support groups.
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be challenging to overcome, which is why it is recommended to join a rehabilitation facility to give you the tools and support for lifelong recovery.
Quit Alcohol as a Resource: Overcoming Fentanyl Addiction
Drug abuse and addiction take hard work and dedication to overcome, but the path to a better life is waiting for you. It takes courage to step toward a new future, especially when you may never have thought you would need addiction treatment. You are not alone. Contact Quit Alcohol for more information.
