Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid intended to treat severe pain associated with severe injuries or chronic illnesses such as cancer. Like morphine, but up to 100 times more potent, fentanyl is a dangerous and highly addictive drug. Because of its potency, people can become addicted to fentanyl even when prescribed by a doctor. Using fentanyl as a recreational drug is incredibly risky. It is the number one drug linked to overdose and death. The best way to combat fentanyl addiction is through a medically supervised detox, followed by an opioid addiction treatment program.
At Harmony Hills, we are dedicated to being part of the fight against the opioid addiction epidemic. Our experienced team of addiction treatment professionals is here to help you or your loved one begin recovery today. Learn more by calling 855.494.0357.
What Are the Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal?
Like other opioids, fentanyl binds to opioid receptors throughout the body that regulate pain and emotion. The result of this reaction is a large release of dopamine, the body’s natural “feel good” chemical. When someone uses an opioid, like fentanyl, brain chemistry is changed. Very quickly, the body becomes dependent on the outside drug to function. When the drug is removed, withdrawal begins as the brain attempts to restore balance.
While withdrawal symptoms will vary from person to person, fentanyl withdrawal is often compared to having the flu. The severity of your withdrawal symptoms will depend on several factors like how long you have been using and the level of substance(s) in your system.
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can start within six to twelve hours after the last use. They generally peak between two to four days after and begin to fade after about one week. Common symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal include but are not limited to:
- Sweating and chills
- Restlessness
- Muscle and joint pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Elevated heart and respiratory rates
- Insomnia
Many people will also experience psychological symptoms of withdrawal, such as depression, anxiety, and cravings. These symptoms tend to be more long-term and can lead to reduced motivation to continue treatment. Knowing what to expect in fentanyl withdrawal can help you be better prepared for it. Attempting to detox from fentanyl on your own can be very dangerous. The safest way to detox is through a medically supervised detox program like that offered at Harmony Hills.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Harmony Hills
Fentanyl addiction is less common than other opioid addictions. Being addicted to fentanyl indicates that you have severe addiction that cannot be overcome with detox alone. At Harmony Hills, we recommend entering our residential treatment program following fentanyl detox. Studies have concluded that treatment programs lasting 90 days or more are significantly more effective for long-term sobriety.
Residential treatment for fentanyl addiction provides you with intensive care in a safe environment, away from the stressors and triggers that likely contributed to your addiction. As well, you can receive treatment for any underlying mental health disorders. With the support of licensed addiction specialists, you will receive treatment created to attend to your individual needs. Some of the therapy programs we offer include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- 12-step programs
- Trauma-informed therapy
Addiction does not occur overnight, and neither does recovery. Committing yourself to treatment is committing to hard work. At Harmony Hills, we believe in a holistic approach to treatment and provide many amenities to enhance your time in treatment. In addition to high-quality nutrition, we offer yoga, meditation, walking trails, a full gym, and more.
Change Your Life Today by Calling Harmony Hills
The fear of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms often causes people to put off treatment or avoid it altogether. At Harmony Hills, we understand that detoxing from opioids is unpleasant, but we also know that the results of staying addicted are far worse. At our drug detox center, we strive to make you as comfortable as possible. We provide medically supervised, compassionate, around-the-clock care. Speak to a professional today by calling 855.494.0357. One call can change your life.
