Fentanyl is a potent prescription drug used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It has a significant potential for misuse and addiction, as well as severe harm to people’s mental and physical health.
Many people in the United States develop fentanyl addiction, and many lose their lives to an opioid overdose. People who use prescription fentanyl must be aware of the risk of physical dependence and watch for signs that they are developing tolerance or dependence. Those who use fentanyl recreationally must seek immediate treatment to avoid overdose and other severe complications.
Those who use fentanyl recreationally have a higher risk for addiction and other severe complications, including overdose. Dealers sometimes “cut” other opioids and illicit drugs with fentanyl. This means that people who use heroin, other opioids, or other prescription drugs may unintentionally be exposed to fentanyl.
Because fentanyl is so potent, it can be lethal in tiny doses, and people can unknowingly ingest a deadly amount of it. The only way to prevent this is to stop using fentanyl and other illicit drugs.
People who misuse fentanyl require timely treatment and ongoing support. Fentanyl abuse treatment typically begins with a medically supported detox. Knowing what to expect at a fentanyl detox center in Pompano Beach can help you prepare for your time in treatment and stay motivated throughout the challenging early days of your recovery.
Reach out to the team at First Step Behavioral Health now to learn about our fentanyl detox programs or to find support at any stage of your recovery.
Fentanyl Addiction: An Overview
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is chemically similar to morphine. It is derived from the same opium poppy plant as morphine, but fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent. Because fentanyl is so powerful, minuscule doses can be deadly. People who use prescription fentanyl must take care to use it exactly as prescribed to reduce the risk of severe complications.
Some people use fentanyl recreationally–meaning without a prescription. Misusing fentanyl, either as a prescription medication or a recreational drug, is very dangerous.
When people use fentanyl, the potent drug travels quickly through the bloodstream and reaches the brain in a very short period. Once in the brain, it binds to opioid receptors in areas related to emotions, pain control, and pleasure.
The brain becomes flooded with endorphins, which are naturally occurring neurotransmitters related to pleasure and pain relief. Fentanyl users may experience euphoria, which is a rush of intense pleasure and warmth.
These pleasurable feelings may lead users to take more fentanyl than prescribed or to take more frequent doses. People with fentanyl addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms that make it impossible to stop using it on their own.
The Effects and Risks of Fentanyl
Fentanyl is effective at relieving moderate to severe pain but can cause other side effects. Some of the most common effects of fentanyl include:
- Drowsiness
- Loss of consciousness
- Sedation
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Confusion
- Depressed (slow, shallow) breathing
One of the most significant risks of fentanyl use is lethal overdose. A tiny amount of fentanyl can cause a deadly overdose. People who regularly misuse fentanyl are at a high risk of overdose. People who use other opioids and illicit drugs risk overdose through accidental exposure and tainted substances.
Signs of an opioid overdose include:
- Clammy, cold skin
- Blue lips, fingernails, or skin
- Constricted (small) pupils
- Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
- Respiratory arrest (stopped breathing)
- Gurgling or choking sounds
- Vomiting
- LImp limbs
- Loss of consciousness
- Unresponsiveness
- Vomiting
A fentanyl overdose requires immediate medical intervention and treatment. If someone near you is experiencing a fentanyl overdose, call 911 immediately. Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available and wait with the person until help arrives.
The only way to prevent a fentanyl overdose is to stop misusing it and other illicit drugs. Find treatment for fentanyl addiction, beginning with care from a fentanyl detox center.
What to Expect at a Fentanyl Detox Center in Pompano Beach
Drug abuse treatment in Pompano Beach often begins with care from a medical detox center. The majority of people who attempt to stop using fentanyl on their own are unsuccessful. Fentanyl is a highly addictive drug that changes how your brain works, making it incredibly challenging to stop using and avoid relapse.
During a treatment program at a fentanyl detox center, people receive treatment, supervision, and support that can help them safely detox from fentanyl and maintain sobriety.
Fentanyl detox treatment plans typically include:
- Emotional support, including one-on-one and group therapy, when appropriate
- 24/7 access to mental health and medical care
- Medications to reduce cravings and manage other withdrawal symptoms
- Gradual tapering of opioid drugs to manage withdrawal symptoms
The support of a residential fentanyl addiction treatment center in Pompano Beach can increase your chances of success and long-term recovery. After completing a detox program, you must continue treatment in a comprehensive addiction rehab program.
Find Fentanyl Detox in Pompano Beach, FL Today
If you or a loved one are struggling with fentanyl addiction, contact the team at First Step Behavioral Health now to explore your treatment options or to find support at any stage of your recovery journey.
