Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in Dallas
Prescription drugs can be very useful. They are used in treating various types of pain, such as chronic pain, pain after surgery, or cancer-related pain. For patients who need them, they can be a real blessing.
But despite this advantage, drugs like fentanyl have hidden dangers. Over time, fentanyl can make someone develop a tolerance to it, and they will need larger amounts for it to work. However, this can also turn into a bad addiction, one that the individual cannot quit alone.
Whether someone takes fentanyl after receiving a prescription or obtaining it illegally, the risks of drug use are there. Once an addiction has developed, the person will consume the drug frequently, which may lead to devastating effects over time. It’s crucial to know what to do in case someone is dealing with fentanyl addiction.
Fentanyl: An Extremely Potent Opioid
Fentanyl is an opioid medication typically prescribed to treat severe pain. With a potency of 50 to 100 times that of morphine, fentanyl is often misused, leading to a high risk of drug addiction and substance use disorder. Its potent nature means that even a small amount can lead to severe health implications or even death, making it one of the most dangerous addictive substances available today.
Because of its potency, fentanyl is very addictive and can be dangerous. It is always important to make sure you use it the way the doctor told you to and not take it more than recommended. If you have a substance use disorder issue, you will be at higher risk of becoming addicted.
Side Effects of Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl misuse can cause a variety of harmful side effects, including but not limited to:
Slowed or stopped breathing
Severe drowsiness and lethargy
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion
Constipation
Unconsciousness
Development of drug and alcohol addiction
These severe health consequences necessitate professional intervention, such as the specialized services provided by Real Deal Therapy & Wellness, a leader in methamphetamine and substance abuse treatment in Dallas, Texas.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Individuals who have developed a dependency on fentanyl may experience a range of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms when they stop using the drug. These symptoms can include:
Restlessness and agitation
Bone and muscle pain
Insomnia
Diarrhea and vomiting
Cold flashes with goosebumps
Involuntary leg movements
The severity and duration of these withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly depending on the extent of the individual’s substance abuse and their overall health status.
Medication-Assisted Withdrawal Management
At Real Deal Therapy & Wellness, we incorporate medication management into our outpatient treatment program for fentanyl and heroin addiction. Under the careful supervision of our healthcare professionals, we administer medications like methadone and suboxone (buprenorphine and naltrexone) to help manage the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and support patients through the detoxification process.
Detox: A Crucial First Step
Detoxification is the initial phase of recovery and involves removing the drug from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. Because withdrawal from opioids can be severe and potentially dangerous, doctors say it’s important that healthcare professionals supervise this process. At our treatment center, we ensure that detoxification is conducted safely, prioritizing the comfort and well-being of our patients throughout the process.
Identifying and Responding to a Fentanyl Overdose
Identifying a Fentanyl Overdose:
Slowed or Stopped Breathing: This is one of the most dangerous symptoms of a fentanyl overdose. An individual might take shallow breaths or stop breathing altogether.
Extreme Drowsiness: Fentanyl can cause an individual to become extremely sleepy or unconscious. This can indicate that a harmful dosage has been taken.
Inability to Talk or Walk Normally: Difficulty speaking coherently, slurred speech, and impaired balance or coordination could be signs of an overdose.
Bluish Coloration of the Lips or Fingernails: This symptom indicates that the person is not getting enough oxygen, a condition known as cyanosis. It’s a sign of a severe overdose and requires immediate medical attention.
Responding to a Fentanyl Overdose:
Seeking Emergency Medical Help: If a fentanyl overdose is suspected, call 911 immediately. Provide as much information as possible about the situation and the individual’s condition.
Use of Naloxone: If available, naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, including fentanyl, by binding to opioid receptors and blocking the effects of the opioids. It’s important to seek medical help still even if naloxone is administered.
Supportive Care: While waiting for medical professionals to arrive, try to keep the person awake and breathing, lay them on their side to prevent choking, and reassure them that help is on the way.
Outpatient Treatment: Personalized and Comprehensive
At Real Deal Therapy & Wellness, we provide comprehensive outpatient treatment programs tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our program includes a combination of individual and group counseling, evidence-based therapies, and ongoing support, aiming to treat not just the addiction but any co-existing mental health issues.
Looking Beyond Treatment: Aftercare and Ongoing Support
We believe that recovery extends beyond the initial treatment period. That’s why we offer robust aftercare services to help patients maintain their sobriety and successfully reintegrate into their daily lives. These services include ongoing therapy, peer support groups, and assistance with educational and vocational pursuits.
Real Deal Therapy & Wellness is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care and treatment options to those struggling with fentanyl addiction. As experts in addiction treatment in Dallas, we’re here to guide you through every step of your recovery journey, helping you regain control of your life and health. Contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier future.