According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. overdose deaths reached an all-time high in 2021. Overdose death from fentanyl is the majority.
While fentanyl is not mostly talked about in the media like heroin does, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t cause harm.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. While they have the same use as morphine, fentanyl is 50-100 times stronger. Doctors use this drug to treat severe pain from surgery and chronic pain. Legally made fentanyl comes in as injectables, lozenges, and patches.
Fentanyl is a prescription drug, but more Americans can acquire this medication without a prescription illegally. Fentanyl sold on the streets is illegally made in labs. It looks like a powder or a pill.
Also, illegal makers of fentanyl mix it with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine because it is cheaper. Fentanyl is very potent, and a small amount of this can make someone “high” enough.
What are The Signs of Fentanyl Addiction?
Some people didn’t intentionally use fentanyl to get addicted. Sometimes, fentanyl is the only medication that can ease their severe pain. But, using it irresponsibly and without a doctor’s approval can make you addicted to it.
Fentanyl is very potent. It is why taking it once or twice can lead to dependency.
Here are the signs of fentanyl addiction:
- Tolerance
- Euphoria
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Elevated mood
- Anxiety or depression
- Stomach and intestinal discomfort
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme fatigue
- Swollen hands and feet
- Muscle stiffness
- Slurred speech
- Itching
- Dizziness
- Weight loss
- Poor hygiene
- Increased heart rate
- Breathing problems
- Suicidal thoughts
How to Treat Fentanyl Addiction?
Deciding to quit fentanyl use is not easy as it sounds. It is not recommended to do it alone or without a healthcare professional monitoring.
If you are ready to take your life back, a fentanyl rehab facility like Mallard Lake Detox Center is the answer.
Stopping fentanyl use causes mild to severe withdrawal just hours after your last dose. It is why fentanyl rehab is the best option. At Mallard Lake Detox Center, we have programs for fentanyl rehab designed for every individual.
We have fentanyl rehab plans that include Substance Detox and Withdrawal Therapy, Chemical Dependency Treatment Programs, Behavioral Therapy, and Self-help Groups.
If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, call us today! We also serve people near or around Houston, Texas.