Addiction treatment centers provide both inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment programs. Inpatient care involves residing at the rehab facility for a period of time, while outpatient rehab allows individuals to attend treatment sessions while living at home. Both approaches incorporate evidence-based therapies like individual counseling, family therapy, and medication-assisted treatment. The goal of these addiction treatment services is to address the physical and psychological aspects of substance use disorders.
Many treatment programs also address co-occurring mental health disorders through dual diagnosis treatment. This approach recognizes the interconnected nature of substance abuse and mental health conditions. By providing comprehensive mental health services simultaneously with addiction treatment, individuals can achieve holistic healing and develop coping strategies for a lasting recovery.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid found in the illegal drug market. It is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine and can cause death after a single dose. Originally developed as a prescription medication for severe pain, fentanyl’s desirable effects led to widespread abuse and contributed significantly to the opioid addiction epidemic. Users obtain fentanyl through counterfeit prescriptions or illicit production, and fentanyl derivatives are often present in other drugs without the user’s knowledge.
The intense highs and euphoric effects of synthetic opioids like fentanyl make addiction very common. However, fentanyl’s extreme potency also means the risk of overdose and death is extremely high. Comprehensive addiction treatment services at drug rehab centers are essential for those struggling with fentanyl substance abuse.
Fentanyl Causes of Withdrawal, Risk Factors, and Timeline
Withdrawal Process
The detox process for fentanyl is similar to other opioids but with more intense and rapid onset of withdrawal effects. Detoxing from fentanyl can be extremely challenging both mentally and physically, so it’s important to seek professional help at addiction treatment centers.
Tapering is the first step, which involves gradually reducing the fentanyl dosage until complete cessation. This safer approach helps alleviate some withdrawal symptoms. After tapering, acute withdrawal symptoms may occur, including physical effects like nausea, cramps, and vomiting, as well as mental health symptoms like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The acute withdrawal phase can last several days.
Following the acute phase, post-acute withdrawal symptoms that are primarily psychological in nature may persist for weeks or months. Drug rehab centers offer medication-assisted treatment and mental health services to help manage both acute and post-acute withdrawal during the recovery journey.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl addiction can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms when stopping use, including:
- Muscle and joint pain
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns
- Frequent sweating and chills
- Anxiety, depression, and irritability
- Intense cravings for fentanyl
- Loss of appetite and gastrointestinal issues
Medical detox at addiction treatment centers is highly recommended for those struggling with fentanyl substance abuse. Healthcare professionals can provide medications and other treatments, such as vitamins and nutritional counseling, to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and support the detox process.
Causes and Risk Factors
Fentanyl withdrawal occurs when the body has become dependent on the drug and cannot function normally without it. The severity of withdrawal symptoms depends on factors like the duration and amount of fentanyl use, as well as the individual’s overall physical health.
Those who use fentanyl for an extended period or in high doses are more likely to experience severe and prolonged withdrawal symptoms. Other risk factors for difficult fentanyl withdrawal include:
- Length of time using fentanyl
- High dosage amounts
- Frequent use
- Method of administration (injection, snorting, etc.)
- Genetic predisposition and pre-existing mental health disorders
- Co-occurring substance use disorders involving alcohol or other drugs
Understanding individual risk factors is crucial when withdrawing from fentanyl or other substances. Seeking professional help at addiction treatment centers ensures a safe and successful recovery while managing withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal Timeline
The timeline for fentanyl withdrawal varies but typically lasts one to two weeks. Physical symptoms usually begin within 24 hours of the last dose and peak around 48-72 hours. However, psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, and cravings can persist much longer.
Seeking professional help at drug rehab centers during fentanyl withdrawal is essential, as the process can be dangerous and extremely uncomfortable. Medical detox centers provide a safe, supportive environment with medical professionals on-site 24/7 to monitor vitals and provide necessary treatments.
Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal
Fentanyl is an extremely potent opioid, with effects 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Its intense euphoric high makes fentanyl addiction very common. However, withdrawing from fentanyl can be a challenging process both mentally and physically.
During the acute withdrawal phase, individuals may experience distressing physical symptoms like nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Psychological symptoms such as severe anxiety, depression, and insomnia are also common during fentanyl detox. This acute phase can last several days and is often the most difficult part of the withdrawal process.
After the initial acute withdrawal period, post-acute withdrawal symptoms that are primarily psychological in nature may persist for several weeks or months. Common post-acute withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl include:
- Muscle aches and joint pain
- Disrupted sleep patterns or insomnia
- Frequent sweating and chills
- Anxiety, depression, and irritability
- Strong cravings for fentanyl
- Appetite loss and gastrointestinal distress
Due to the severity of fentanyl withdrawal, medical detox at addiction treatment centers is highly recommended for individuals struggling with fentanyl substance abuse. Healthcare professionals can provide medications and supplements to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and make the detox process more manageable. Comprehensive addiction treatment services, including medication-assisted treatment, mental health counseling, and support groups, are crucial for a successful recovery from fentanyl addiction.
Drug Rehab in Los Angeles for Addiction Recovery
At Gloria Detox and Rehab Center, we offer personalized treatment plans to assist individuals in overcoming substance use disorders. Our programs address various aspects of addiction, including detoxification, counseling, and aftercare support. We understand the challenges associated with substance abuse and strive to provide a supportive environment for recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please contact us at (818) 659-9444 or visit our contact page for more information. With the right treatment and commitment, it is possible to regain control and lead a fulfilling life free from substance abuse.
