Addictions We Treat: Fentanyl
Located in Sonoma, California, Align Recovery provides specialized treatment services for individuals contending with the challenges of fentanyl addiction. Fentanyl accounts for more than half of overdose deaths. As one of the most potent opioids available, the threat of fentanyl extends beyond the individual to impact broader communities. Given the complex nature of fentanyl addiction, Align Recovery offers a comprehensive residential inpatient rehab program. This program has been structured to deliver holistic care and support, ensuring each patient benefits from tailored therapeutic interventions.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and about 50 times stronger than heroin. Initially developed for pain management, particularly for cancer patients, it’s rapidly become associated with a rising number of overdose deaths due to its extreme potency. Fentanyl can be legally prescribed but is also found illicitly on the streets, often mixed with other drugs, enhancing the risk of overdose.
How Common is Fentanyl Abuse?
Over the past few years, fentanyl abuse has become alarmingly prevalent. With its potency far surpassing that of other opioids, it has unfortunately found its way into various street drugs, unbeknownst to the user. In some instances, fentanyl is added to enhance the potency of drugs such as heroin, leading to a surge in overdose fatalities. This has triggered a significant public health concern as the margin between a therapeutic and lethal dose is exceptionally narrow.
Moreover, the rapid proliferation of fentanyl in the illicit drug market has made detection and regulation a challenge for authorities. The unsuspecting nature of its addition to other substances magnifies the risk, catching users off guard and making overdose prevention increasingly difficult. The presence of fentanyl in street drugs underscores the critical need for awareness, education, and intervention at both community and national levels.
Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction
Recognizing the symptoms of fentanyl addiction early can be a pivotal step toward timely intervention and recovery. Fentanyl addiction manifests in a spectrum of signs that span across physical, behavioral, and psychological domains:
Physical Symptoms:
- Slowed breathing rate: This can be potentially life-threatening, as it may lead to hypoxia, where the brain is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.
- Drowsiness: Individuals may appear consistently lethargic or sleepy, regardless of the amount of rest they’ve had.
- Nausea and constipation: Digestive disturbances are common and can become chronic with prolonged use.
- Sedation: Extreme calmness or reduced responsiveness can be noted shortly after consumption.
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Deceptiveness: Lying about or hiding drug use becomes a common strategy to evade confrontations or discussions about their addiction.
- Doctor Shopping: Those addicted may seek prescriptions from multiple doctors to ensure a consistent supply.
- Social Withdrawal: A marked reduction in social interactions or abandoning previously enjoyed activities can signal a deepening addiction.
Psychological Symptoms:
- Mood Fluctuations: An individual may exhibit intense euphoria after consumption, often followed by sharp bouts of depression.
- Reduced Concentration: An increasing inability to focus on tasks or maintain attention.
- Paranoia: Heightened levels of suspicion or fear, even without a real threat.
Understanding these symptoms is essential for those struggling with addiction and their loved ones to offer the necessary support and guide them toward appropriate treatment.
Effects of Fentanyl Addiction
The high potency of fentanyl means its effects on the body and mind can be profound. Over time, sustained use can lead to:
Respiratory
depression
Immune system suppression
Gastrointestinal
issues
Mental health disorders
Organ damage
Additionally, the risk of overdose and death is alarmingly high due to the drug’s strength and the unpredictability of its presence in street drugs.
Fentanyl Withdrawal
Withdrawing from opioids like fentanyl presents a myriad of physical and emotional challenges, significantly impacting how long fentanyl stays in your system. Physically, individuals may experience symptoms such as muscle and bone pain, disturbances in sleep patterns, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes, and uncontrolled leg movements. On the emotional front, severe cravings, anxiety, and depression can manifest. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration highlights that a combination of symptoms like coma, pinpoint pupils, and respiratory depression is a strong indication of opioid intoxication. Given the profound intensity and potential dangers of these symptoms, seeking medically supervised detox is paramount. This careful management is crucial for those wondering how long fentanyl stays in your system, as it influences both the detoxification process and overall recovery journey.
Addiction Treatment for Fentanyl - Align Recovery Centers in Sonoma, CA
At Align Recovery, we understand the multifaceted challenges presented by fentanyl addiction. We believe in a comprehensive treatment method that delves into both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Nestled in the serene landscapes of Sonoma, CA, our facility offers the peace and tranquility essential for profound recovery. Our residential inpatient program, available 24/7, ensures that every individual feels safe, supported, and guided throughout their recovery journey. During the crucial detox phase, our adept medical team is on hand to provide relief from withdrawal symptoms, ensuring patient safety at all times.
Post-detox, the emphasis is on our holistic approach to recovery. With a blend of individual therapy, group sessions, and experiential therapies, we target the underlying causes of addiction. We aim to equip individuals with the essential tools and strategies for sustained sobriety. For those facing the profound challenges of fentanyl addiction, Align Recovery in Sonoma, CA, is your haven for hope, expert care, and a route to a brighter, substance-free future. Explore what we treat for a detailed list of conditions and substances we specialize in. Don’t hesitate; reach out to us today and embark on your transformative journey towards healing and wholeness.
Dana, with over 20 years in addiction therapy and counseling, is the Executive Director at Align Recovery Centers. Holding a B.S. in Human Services and an M.A. in Counseling & Psychology, she’s both an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. Specializing in DBT and CBT, Dana effectively manages both residential and outpatient programs. Her interests include gardening, cooking, and delving into psychological research in her spare time.