Fentanyl is a very powerful opioid painkiller and is often used in recovery from surgery. Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs such as heroin. It is cheaper than heroin, so cutting it with fentanyl makes heroin more profitable but also more powerful, resulting in hundreds of deaths by overdose every year. Fentanyl addiction can be very hard to manage and requires specialized treatment through a fentanyl addiction treatment program. But, what is fentanyl?

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever, 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Opioids work by binding opioid receptors in the central nervous system causing a reduction in the release of neurotransmitters associated with the sensation of pain. In addition, the drug comes in a variety of forms including:

  1. Lozenges
  2. Tablets
  3. Injectable fluid

In addition to relieving pain, it produces a feeling of euphoria. Also, over an extended period, users will develop a tolerance, requiring a higher dose to achieve the same high. The signs of an addiction include:

  1. Slow breathing and seizures
  2. Headaches and dizziness
  3. Itchiness, nausea, and vomiting
  4. Inability to quit abusing it even if you want to.
  5. Forgoing social activities in favor of using it.
  6. Continuing to use the drug despite negative physical, social and economic effects.

Fentanyl is sometimes mixed with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine or meth. This can easily lead to a deadly overdose. If you observe any of the following symptoms, seek emergency aid.

  1. Extreme dizziness
  2. Confusion
  3. Weakness or fatigue
  4. Slow breathing and pinpoint pupils
  5. Blue lips and fingernails
  6. Coma

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Programs

The treatment of fentanyl addiction requires a multi-pronged approach of withdrawal management, addiction counseling and support. In addition, all of which may be best dealt with at a fentanyl addiction treatment program

Withdrawal Management

In seeking to end drug abuse, the pain of withdrawal symptoms may prove to be a barrier. A person can become physically and psychologically acclimated to the presence of a drug. When they stop taking the drug, the withdrawal symptoms occur as the body attempts to acclimate. The withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl include:

  1. Restlessness
  2. Joint pain
  3. Chills
  4. Backaches and stomach cramps

Withdrawal symptoms are managed by substituting a slower acting opioid such as morphine for fentanyl. The doctor will reduce the dosage thereby avoiding the worst of the withdrawal symptoms.

Counseling

Those who have abused drugs will often require counseling to learn new coping mechanisms or deal with the underlying emotional issue that led to substance abuse. Therapy may include techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CMT), psychotherapy or trauma therapy, depending on the circumstances. After treatment is completed, the client may also attend ongoing support programs such as the 12 Step Program.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Program

If you are struggling with addiction consider Serenity Light Recovery. We offer addiction treatment for alcohol, heroin and other forms of substance abuse. Call us today at 855.658.6109 to learn what is Fentanyl.