For over a decade, the opioid crisis has continued to hit the United States. According to recent research, Fentanyl is the leading cause of overdose deaths in the US and climbing. Fentanyl is 50 times stronger than morphine. Because of this, there is an increased risk of a fentanyl overdose, which is why the assistance of a fentanyl detox is often needed for addiction.
Fentanyl belongs to a group of drugs known as opioids, which are commonly used for pain relief. Opioids produce relaxation and euphoric feelings in the user. However, when someone develops opioid (or fentanyl) dependence this can lead to a debilitating form of dependence on the user. It does not take a user long to develop an addiction. This can occur very quickly and only after using the drug a few times. Withdrawal symptoms are quick to follow and extremely uncomfortable making it difficult to stop use by oneself.
At Magnolia City, our detox process helps individuals overcome fentanyl withdrawal in a safe and compassionate environment backed by medical staff who utilize evidence-based medical detox practices. Our team helps patients find recovery.
The average length of time required to complete a successful detox depends on several factors. However, withdrawal symptoms typically begin between 12 and 30 hours after the last dose has been taken. It’s also possible that fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as 2-4 hours after the last dose.
Fentanyl withdrawal can last several weeks or even months. However most of the more intense symptoms peak within the first few days. Typically, withdrawal symptoms last four to twenty days, but in more severe cases, the individual will encounter PAWS, also known as post-acute withdrawal symptoms.
PAWs (post-acute withdrawal symptoms) are sets of symptoms that are felt after the initial physical withdrawal symptoms subside. These are felt as the brain is trying to recalibrate after having the substance present for so long. PAWs are psychological in nature meaning people often feel depression, anxiety, and mood shifts that they don’t really understand.
PAWs are temporary, but they can still last for months after detox. That’s why it’s important to attend an addiction treatment facility after detox. An accredited treatment program can help individuals manage PAWs and minimize the chance of relapse.
It’s also important to remember that detoxing from fentanyl can be potentially dangerous due to physical symptoms. This is why it is necessary to enter a program with medical supervision and medications to alleviate physical symptoms. This means that symptoms are less severe, making it easier to avoid relapse.
Detox is different for everyone because simply put, everyone is different. An accredited detox facility will run a variety of tests in order to determine the best method of treatment for fentanyl withdrawal symptoms. They will also review the person’s medical history.
In addition, an individual’s specific experience will depend on a variety of factors that includes:
This is not a complete list but should help the medical staff determine which medications and protocols will be necessary for recovery.
There are several ways to overcome the withdrawal process from fentanyl. Medications are typically prescribed to help minimize the pain associated with withdrawal symptoms and aid in recovery. It’s important to remember that opioid withdrawal syndrome can be dangerous. Long-term opioid replacement may also be necessary (known as medication-assisted treatment).
Methadone or buprenorphine can be used in managing withdrawal symptoms during detox and can also be used as a long-term medication-assisted treatment. During detox, these medications can be provided to precipitate withdrawal symptoms and make them more manageable.
Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist meaning that it acts very similarly to fentanyl but without the euphoric effects. It helps reduce opioid cravings and blocks the effects of fentanyl on opioid receptors.
Buprenorphine is a partial agonist opioid which means that it also activates opioid receptors in the brain, but at a much lesser degree than a full agonist. Buprenorphine relieves withdrawal symptoms and counteracts cravings.
Other medications can be prescribed to manage many other symptoms related to detox. This could include medications to manage blood pressure, nausea, diarrhea, or depression. During your initial evaluation, the detox facility will determine which medications are best for your unique situation. You will be monitored during the detox process and your medications may be adjusted if needed. The goal is to have a detox experience that is free from as much discomfort as possible.
In addition to methadone and buprenorphine, people can also be prescribed a medication called naltrexone (Vivitrol). While both methadone and buprenorphine are forms of opioid agonists (meaning they activate opioid receptors in the brain), naltrexone is known as an opioid antagonist.
Naltrexone works by attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain and blocking any other opioids from attaching. This means if someone has taken naltrexone and then subsequently took fentanyl, they would not be able to feel the effects due to the naltrexone blocking those receptors. Naltrexone does not produce any effects on the user and can be a more effective way for individuals to abstain from fentanyl or other opioids.
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid analgesic that binds to opioid receptors and causes feelings of euphoria and blocks pain. It is considered extremely dangerous because of its high potency and high rate of addiction. Individuals become addicted to the prescription drug after being prescribed the medication for severe pain. Also, the drug is frequently mixed into heroin or other drugs, and then sold on the streets, causing more opioid addiction. Fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.
Fentanyl is a synthetic (man-made) opioid that is 50 times stronger than morphine. It was originally developed as an anesthesia agent, but it is now being abused recreationally. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Synthetic opioids other than methadone (primarily fentanyl) were the main driver of drug overdose deaths with a 6-fold increase from 2015 to 2020.”
Fentanyl use disorder is a serious condition due to fentanyl’s heightened capability for addiction. Knowing the signs of fentanyl addiction can help you understand that you or your loved one has a problem and persuade them to enter an addiction treatment program in Houston. Some of these signs may include:
Magnolia City Detox Center in Houston, Texas offers a variety of detoxification options for those struggling with Fentanyl abuse. Our facility offers all of the amenities needed to make sure that you feel comfortable throughout your stay.
We offer free parking, comfortable rooms, and a friendly staff ready to answer any questions you might have. Our goal is to help our patients get back on their feet by providing them with ongoing support in the best possible environment in which they can begin to heal.
Our fentanyl detox center is located in Conroe, Texas near Lake Conroe and The Woodlands, offering easy access to beautiful beaches, wildlife preserves and serene parks. It is easily accessible for those who are looking for residential fentanyl detox in:
Take the next step and help yourself or a loved one to recover from fentanyl addiction now. Learn more about our admissions process today and request a free insurance verification.
Insurance coverage varies from one plan to another. Some plans cover up to 50% of the cost while others only provide 10%. Some plans require preauthorization before treatment begins. Others allow you to go directly to treatment.
The insurance company determines what services are covered. The provider must then determine whether or not the patient qualifies for the service. If you have insurance coverage for detox and rehabilitation, please contact Magnolia City Detox to learn how we can assist you.
Yes, detox is only the first step in overcoming fentanyl addiction. An addiction treatment program will help you overcome the underlying causes of your addiction and prepare you for life in recovery.
Addiction treatment programs offer a variety of therapy options, relapse prevention planning, and drug addiction programs. Addiction is considered a chronic relapsing disease, but those who enter into a program are more likely to remain in recovery than those who do not.
Dr. Olaniyi O. Osuntokun is a Neurology & Psychiatry Specialist based in Conroe, Texas, and Lafayette, Indiana. He has extensive experience in treating Individuals with substance use disorders and addiction. He earned his medical degree from University of Ibadan College of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years.
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