Fentanyl has become a devastating force in the United States. Statistics paint an alarming picture. For example, in 2017, more than 71,000 people in the U.S. died from drug overdoses, and almost 30,000 of those deaths were due to fentanyl. Therefore, addiction treatment is crucial to keep these numbers from going even higher.
The rise in fentanyl use has been driven by a variety of factors. One is the availability of the drug. Fentanyl is produced in labs both in the U.S. and abroad, and it’s relatively easy to obtain.
Another factor is that fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, making it even more dangerous. Often, people who take drugs that contain fentanyl don’t even know it, which increases the risk of overdose.
Fentanyl is an incredibly powerful drug, and even a small amount can be deadly. The drug is so powerful, in fact, that first responders have to take special precautions when handling it.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a schedule II prescription drug, and it is typically used to treat patients with severe pain or to manage pain after surgery. It is also sometimes used to treat patients with chronic pain who are tolerant to other opioids.
Fentanyl works by binding to the body’s opioid receptors, which are found in the brain and spinal cord. This action slows down the body’s breathing and can lead to a state of euphoria.
What Are the Risks of Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an incredibly powerful drug, and even a small amount can be deadly. The drug is so powerful, in fact, that first responders have to take special precautions when handling it.
Fentanyl can also be easily overdosed on. Because it is so potent, it doesn’t take much for a person to take too much and suffer an overdose.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from fentanyl can be difficult and uncomfortable. Symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal may include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain and cramps
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. There are a variety of treatment options available, and the sooner you get help, the better.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you love is addicted to fentanyl, there is help available. Treatment for fentanyl addiction typically begins with detox, which is followed by a period of rehabilitation.
Detox is the process of allowing the body to rid itself of the drug. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable process, but it is essential for beginning the journey to recovery.
Once detox is complete, the next step is rehabilitation. This typically involves a stay in a treatment facility where you will receive counseling and other forms of support. Treatment facilities offer a variety of programs, so it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs.
If you or someone you love is addicted to fentanyl, don’t wait to get help. There are a variety of treatment options available, and the sooner you get help, the better.
Get Help Today From Promises Five Palms
At Promises Five Palms, we offer a variety of treatment options for fentanyl addiction. We understand how difficult this disease can be, and we are here to help you on your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you or your loved one get on the path to sobriety.
Fentanyl addiction is a serious problem, but there is help available. Therefore, if you or someone you love is struggling with this disease, don’t wait to get help. Contact Promises Five Palms today at 1.844.675.1022 to learn more about our program and how we can help you on the road to recovery.
