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Fentanyl is an immensely potent synthetic opioid. It is usually prescribed for severe pain, but its misuse has recently led to a staggering surge in drug abuse and overdose incidents.
Learn about symptoms of Fentanyl withdrawal, abuse statistics, associated dangers, affected populations, and safe treatments. Keep reading for more!
Prevail Recovery Center is a top-rated drug rehab in Fort Lauderdale. Contact us today to learn more about how our South Florida treatment center can help.
Fentanyl withdrawal can be an arduous ordeal. Its symptoms usually arise 12-48 hours after the last dose and can persist for several weeks.
Common symptoms entail:
These symptoms can be physically and emotionally distressing, making it difficult for individuals to quit using Fentanyl without proper support and medical help.
Over the past few years, the rise in Fentanyl abuse has been alarming.
Shockingly, synthetic opioid-involved overdose deaths have surged by 38.4 percent, primarily because of Fentanyl, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In the United States alone, over 36,000 overdose deaths were attributed to synthetic opioids in 2019.
Data for 2020 paints an even more worrying picture – over 93,000 drug overdose deaths were reported in the United States, a devastating increase of nearly 30 percent.
This surge was mainly driven by illicitly produced Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid identified as its principal contributor.
Fentanyl effects often appear quickly and can be deadly.
It is a powerful drug, many times more potent than morphine or heroin, so even small amounts are hazardous.
There are several dangers associated with Fentanyl abuse, including:
Because of its potency, the risk of overdose is extremely high with Fentanyl abuse. Even a small amount can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death.
Fentanyl can quickly lead to addiction because of its powerful effects on the brain’s reward system. This can cause severe physical and psychological dependence.
Many individuals who use illicit drugs may be unaware that they contain Fentanyl, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Chronic Fentanyl abuse can lead to numerous health problems, including heart, lung, liver, and kidney damage.
While Fentanyl abuse affects people from all walks of life, certain populations are disproportionately impacted, including:
Individuals prescribed Fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons may develop an addiction because of the drug’s potent effects.
Those with a history of opioid or other substance abuse are at an increased risk of developing an addiction to Fentanyl.
According researchers, young adults aged 18-25 have the highest rates of prescription opioid misuse, which can increase their risk for Fentanyl abuse.
Attempting to quit Fentanyl cold turkey can be dangerous because of the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Sometimes, withdrawal can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and other complications requiring hospitalization.
Additionally, the intense cravings experienced during withdrawal can increase the risk of relapse and overdose.
It is crucial for individuals struggling with Fentanyl addiction to seek professional help to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Some of the treatment options available include:
A medical detox program can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone may ease withdrawal symptoms and decrease cravings.
Inpatient treatment programs provide a structured environment with round-the-clock support, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery without distractions.
Outpatient programs offer more flexibility, allowing individuals to attend therapy sessions while maintaining their daily responsibilities.
Intensive outpatient programs provide structure and support while allowing individuals to continue working or attending school.
Partial hospitalization programs provide intensive therapy while allowing individuals to return home at night.
Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy and contingency management, can help individuals develop coping skills to prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety.
Peer support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide valuable emotional support and encouragement during recovery.
Recovery support programs assist individuals in developing skills and strategies for long-term recovery, such as relapse prevention techniques, stress management, healthy lifestyle changes, and social support.
Aftercare programs provide ongoing recovery support services after completing an addiction treatment program successfully.
This may include support groups, sober housing, and other services to help individuals remain in recovery and avoid potential relapse.
Prevail is a leading provider of fentanyl withdrawal treatment in Florida.
Our highly trained and experienced staff offer evidence-based personalized care to meet the needs of our clients and help them achieve long-term recovery.
We provide comprehensive outpatient treatments, counseling sessions, relapse prevention strategies, family involvement opportunities, and more.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you or a loved one in your journey toward a healthier and happier life.
Prevail Recovery Center is a trusted drug & alcohol treatment program in Ft. Lauderdale, South Florida that offers individualized, evidence-based programming.
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