Fentanyl is a major part of the opioid epidemic in the United States. In fact, it is now the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the country. The opioid epidemic is a complex problem with no easy solutions. Understanding the different withdrawal symptoms of fentanyl can help you acknowledge the need for help.
One of the most important things that can be done to address this crisis is to raise awareness about Fentanyl and its dangers. As a particularly potent opioid, Fentanyl can cause serious withdrawal symptoms.
For those who are struggling with an addiction to this drug, recovering on their own can feel impossible due to the severity of their withdrawal. This has created a serious need for effective detox and treatment services. At Royal Life Centers, we offer the comprehensive care you need to achieve long-term recovery from fentanyl addiction.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous synthetic opioid that is most commonly produced and used illicitly. It has been found to be 50 to 100 times more potent than other opioids like morphine and heroin. This means that even a small amount of Fentanyl can be deadly, especially if it is taken by someone who is not used to opioids.
Illicit Fentanyl is mainly manufactured in foreign labs without proper regulations and smuggled out of Mexico and into the U.S., where it is distributed throughout the nation as a top performer in the illegal drug market. It is most commonly sold as a powder, nasal spray, or pills disguised as legitimate prescription opioids.
Fentanyl is also often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Combining Fentanyl with other substances makes it even more dangerous, as people may not be aware that they are taking Fentanyl.
This makes it difficult to know how much Fentanyl is present, increasing the risk of overdose. Currently, it is estimated that more than 150 people die on a daily basis due to overdoses caused by synthetic opioids like Fentanyl.
Understanding the Withdrawal Symptoms of Fentanyl
When someone has developed a physical dependence on this illicit opioid, stopping their use of the drug can cause them to develop serious withdrawal symptoms. Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be both physical and psychological.
The physical symptoms are similar to those of other opioid withdrawal symptoms, and they can include:
- Anxiety
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Goosebumps
- Increased heart rate
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Restlessness
- Sweating
- Teary eyes
- Yawning
In addition to these side effects, the psychological symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can include:
- Cravings for fentanyl
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
Because of how severe the fentanyl withdrawal process can be, it is never recommended to attempt to stop the use of this drug alone. Royal Life Centers offers the detox and treatment services you need to make sure you safely and successfully recover from your fentanyl abuse,
How Long Does Fentanyl Withdrawal Last?
Knowing what the fentanyl withdrawal timeline looks like can help make sure you are prepared for the detox process. The severity and length of your withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the amount of Fentanyl you were using, how long you were using it, and your overall health.
In general, the withdrawal symptoms of fentanyl will be most intense in the first few days after stopping fentanyl use, and they will gradually improve over time. Most people will experience symptoms for up to two weeks, although there is the possibility of developing protracted withdrawal, which can last for several months.
Recent News About Fentanyl
With the drug’s recent infamy, there have been many horror stories popping up on the web featuring the potential dangers fentanyl poses to communities across the country. While many of these have a great deal of truth to them, there are some rumors about this drug that are not so accurate.
For instance, the U.S. is seeing an increase in cases of people finding fentanyl on dollar bills. As a result, some people are in a moral panic, fearful of coming in contact with fentanyl after handling money laced with fentanyl.
While these concerns are understandable, it is important to know that it is not possible to overdose on fentanyl just from handling a dollar bill. The only way skin can absorb fentanyl in large amounts, according to experts, is by using a medically prescribed fentanyl patch.
What Is Fentanyl Rehab Like?
With this drug’s intense effects on the mind and body, comprehensive treatment is essential in order to achieve long-term recovery. The treatment process for this particular addiction typically includes a variety of services, such as:
- Medical detox: This is the process of safely withdrawing from fentanyl under the supervision of a medical team. Detox can be a challenging process, but it’s essential to ensure that you do not experience any serious withdrawal symptoms.
- Therapies: Therapy helps you to understand your addiction and develop coping mechanisms for dealing with cravings and triggers. You will also learn about the importance of relapse prevention.
- Life skills training: This teaches you how to live a healthy and productive life without drugs. You can learn about budgeting, time management, and communication while receiving support in finding housing and job opportunities after treatment.
Fentanyl Treatment at Royal Life Centers
Now that you understand the dangers of fentanyl addiction and the withdrawal process, it’s important to recieve treatment. Royal Life Centers at Chapter 5 provides comprehensive care and support to safely treat you for fentanyl abuse.
While participating in one of Royal Life Centers’ treatment programs, you gain access to a variety of recovery services while withdrawing from fentanyl, including:
- Fentanyl detox services
- Residential and inpatient treatment
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Behavioral and holistic therapies
After choosing to seek treatment at our facility, you have access to the tools you need to achieve long-term recovery. To learn more about how our men’s residential treatment program in Prescott, Arizona can help you recover, reach out to us today!
