Fentanyl Detox Treatment Rehab
Overview
Fentanyl is an extremely dangerous drug, often manufactured illicitly. It is approximately 50100 times more potent than morphine and is frequently used as an adulterant in heroin and other drugs. Fentanyl dependence can have devastating and even fatal effects. If you or a loved one is misusing fentanyl, you are urged to seek professional help promptly to prevent life-threatening side effects like central nervous system depression, coma, and overdose.
At Guardian Recovery, our compassionate team of addiction specialists is dedicated to providing individuals with the comprehensive treatment they need to conquer fentanyl addiction and reclaim healthy, fulfilling lives.
What Is Fentanyl Dependence?
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Fentanyl?
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Physical dependence can develop after short-term use of fentanyl, as it has a very high potential for addiction. Although the synthetic opioid is used for legitimate medical purposes, most fentanyl found on the street is illicitly manufactured. Its addictive nature stems from its powerful central nervous system effects, which include feelings of pleasure and euphoria.
When fentanyl is used, essential neurochemical processes are altered. Over time, the brain and body can become dependent on the substance. Attempting to quit results in withdrawal symptoms as the body attempts to restore chemical balance. Prolonged use can also lead to tolerance, in which increasingly large amounts of fentanyl will be needed to achieve the desired effects.
Fentanyl Addiction Detox & Rehab Process
The first critical stage in the treatment of fentanyl addiction is medical detox. While engaged in medical detox, a person undergoes a safe fentanyl withdrawal under the close supervision of licensed medical professionals. Once the person has been physically stabilized, they transition to the next appropriate level of care which might include inpatient, partial hospitalization, or outpatient treatment.
The rehab process is different for everyone. Because fentanyl addiction affects each person uniquely, treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process. Your clinical team will determine the best treatment options for you or your loved one while you are undergoing detox.
Detoxing the Body From Fentanyl Misuse or Overdose
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If a person has been using fentanyl and is at risk of a life-threatening overdose, it is important to seek professional addiction treatment as quickly as possible. Detox is the first step in the recovery process, and consists of 24/7 medical monitoring and medications to help reduce cravings and relieve unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
If someone you know is suffering from a fentanyl overdose, it is vital to call emergency first responders. First responders can administer naloxone, an opioid overdose medication that can halt and reverse the dangerous respiratory depression that accompanies it.
Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms
The duration of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms varies depending on factors like the duration and intensity of use. Generally speaking, the worst physical symptoms will subside within a week or two. Psychological symptoms can last much longer due to a condition called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). In this case, emotional symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, can persist for weeks or months.
Medications Used in MAT for Fentanyl Detox
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- Buprenorphine (Suboxone or Subutex) Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing a high
- Methadone A long-acting opioid agonist that reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol) An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of fentanyl and reduces cravings
- Naloxone Used to reverse overdose and available as a standalone medication for emergency use
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnoses, also known as co-occurring disorders, are very common among individuals with substance use disorders. Mental health issues can compel a person to use drugs or alcohol as a means of self-medication. Addiction itself can cause or worsen mental health conditions due to the chemical and emotional imbalances that occur with substance use and dependence. For this reason, both conditions must be treated simultaneously to prevent one disorder from fueling the other.
Treatment Options for Fentanyl Addiction
There are many treatment options for fentanyl addiction. They vary in intensity and flexibility and are often combined to provide clients with a multi-staged treatment plan:
– Medical detox with 24/7 monitoring
– Inpatient / residential treatment
– Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
– Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
– Standard outpatient treatment
– Virtual treatment options
– Individual, group, and family therapy
– Holistic therapies including yoga, meditation, and art therapy
– Aftercare planning and alumni support
