Fentanyl

Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine. Doctors mostly prescribe fentanyl to those with chronic pain or those who have developed a tolerance to less potent opioids. A doctor may prescribe fentanyl in the form of an injection, tablet, patch, or film depending on the patient’s needs.

Fentanyl is sold under various different brand names, including:

• Fentora.
• Subsys.
• Actiq.
• Sublimaze.
• Duragesic.

The most lethal form of fentanyl is illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), which is produced without a proper prescription. Fentanyl is often used as a filler in other illegal opiates, including heroin, cocaine, MDMA, and meth due to its low production cost and potent effects.

Fentanyl’s Addictive Nature.

The US is currently undergoing an opioid epidemic. Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II drug. Other opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone are also included in this category, both of which have a significant potential for misuse. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that, when combined with other opiates like heroin, becomes a very hazardous and addictive new substance. Most cases of fentanyl misuse result from the drug’s usage in illegal ways or counter to the directions provided by the manufacturer. The DEA claims that illicit fentanyl is mostly to blame for the epidemic of fentanyl abuse, addiction, and overdoses. Recent years have seen a rise in both fentanyl usage and deadly overdoses.

Fentanyl Addiction and Withdrawal

Medical fentanyl detox is usually the first step in treating fentanyl addiction, followed by behavioral therapies and group and individual counseling. Opioid withdrawal can be managed, and long-term sobriety can be maintained when opioid use disorder is managed with FDA-approved medications. It’s very common for people to develop a physical reliance on fentanyl, a state in which they need the medication for normal bodily functions or else experience painful withdrawal symptoms. Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms occur when a user suddenly stops or dramatically reduces their fentanyl dosage. Among these withdrawal symptoms include:  

• Muscle pains.
• Sleepless less.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Body tremors.
• Diarrhea.
• Intense cravings.

Many individuals keep using opioids like fentanyl due to the potential unpleasantness of withdrawal long after their initial euphoric benefits have worn off. The presence of medical professionals, such as physicians and nurses, at a medical detox clinic, may aid in the withdrawal process and offer comfort and care, both of which can help reduce the probability of relapse.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment

It has been shown that detox on its own is not enough to sustain sobriety. Further treatments, like behavioral therapies, are typically required to reduce the likelihood of relapsing into fentanyl or opioid addiction. Medication-assisted therapy (MAT), which combines behavioral therapy and the use of medications, has been shown to be beneficial in treating fentanyl addiction. Other treatment options include inpatient and outpatient therapy, individual and group counseling, support groups, PHP programs, etc.

Skyward Treatment Center Offers a State-of-the-Art Fentanyl Addiction Treatment.

Skyward Treatment Center in Houston is an excellent resource for anybody struggling with fentanyl addiction. Hundreds of people have been helped through our fentanyl detox program. Each patient receives individualized care in both our in-patient and out-patient settings. Get in touch with an admissions counselor at Skyward Treatment Center right now to discuss your fentanyl addiction and the many treatment alternatives we offer.