Deadly and potent, fentanyl has unfortunately become one of the nation’s most prominent drugs. Given the increase in distribution and use of this addictive substance, the nation’s opioid epidemic has only worsened. Furthermore, with overdose rates on the rise, it is crucial that treatment be available for those struggling with fentanyl addiction. Fentanyl detox near Augusta, Atlanta , and near the Columbus area sets individuals up for a meaningful and lasting recovery, so they can achieve a life of health and happiness.
What is Fentanyl?
Originally intended for those facing terminal conditions or chronic illnesses, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid with pain-relieving properties. Fentanyl is incredibly strong. In fact, it can be 50 to 100 times more potent than other opioids such as heroin. Prescription fentanyl can take the form of patches, tablets, lozenges, and oral/nasal spray. However, the majority of illegal fentanyl is distributed in the form of a powder. People then smoke, inject, snort, or orally ingest this powder.
Since fentanyl is highly addictive and is considered relatively cost-effective, the drug is often used to cut other substances. Additionally, fentanyl can be falsely distributed in counterfeit tablets, posing as other opioids. As a result, many individuals become addicted to fentanyl unknowingly.
Tragically, less than 2 mg of fentanyl causes a fatal overdose. This concerning fact highlights the true potency of fentanyl as a deadly dose of heroin is equal to 100 mg. In 2020, fentanyl overdoses accounted for 53% of the year’s lethal overdoses. That equates to almost 43,000 lost lives. Fortunately, centers such as The Retreat of Atlanta are combating these alarming statistics by providing relief for those battling fentanyl addiction as well as hope for their families.
Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction
Whether a person has been prescribed fentanyl or is taking it illegally, there is a high risk of dependency. When dependency occurs, individuals increase the amount of fentanyl they are taking. They do this in order to achieve the same pain-numbing or euphoric sensations. Sadly, this dependency swiftly leads to addiction.
Thus, the best way to identify fentanyl dependency in yourself or in a loved one is by becoming educated on the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction. Lastly, this awareness not only allows individuals to get help as soon as possible but also prevents overdose.
Common indicators of fentanyl misuse include:
- Taking fentanyl more often than prescribed or for longer than prescribed
- Inability to stop fentanyl use despite numerous attempts
- Withdrawal symptoms surfacing in the absence of fentanyl
- Intense and frequent drug cravings
- Spending most of the time recovering from or using fentanyl
- Continued use despite recognizing physical and emotional consequences
- Financial struggles linked to overspending on fentanyl
- Changes in eating habits
- Confusion, agitation, or increased nervousness
- Social isolation and withdrawal
- Difficulty maintaining personal and professional responsibilities
- Psychological and emotional distress
- Engaging in risky or dangerous behavior
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Headache, fatigue, dizziness
What Happens During Fentanyl Detox in Atlanta, GA?
Detox refers to the process of cleansing a person of all drugs and toxins. As a result, the individual is able to begin treatment with a healthy body and clear mindset. Our fentanyl detox program in Atlanta provides clients with a safe, nurturing environment. There, they can undergo withdrawal under the close supervision of our qualified staff.
At The Retreat of Atlanta, we begin our drug detox programs with a thorough evaluation. During this time we assess each client’s history with substance use disorder, hereditary dispositions, pre-existing medical conditions, and overall lifestyle. This approach to treatment allows us to create a personalized treatment plan that meets the unique needs and circumstances of every individual who walks through our doors. Following admission, clients are provided 24/7 structure and support in order to maintain medical and emotional stability.
This includes the use of medication-assisted treatment as well as the following services:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
Overall, it is our goal for clients to remain as comfortable as possible throughout the duration of withdrawal. Depending on the severity of a person’s addiction, clients typically spend between 1 to 2 weeks in our fentanyl detox in Atlanta.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Given that an individual’s body must reset after drug use, detox is associated with withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Unfortunately, these side effects are unpleasant and can even prove dangerous if not monitored properly. Because the exact symptoms of fentanyl detox depend on how frequently a person uses fentanyl and in what amount, each individual’s experience with detox varies. However, there are general symptoms a person can expect.
These include:
- Irregular breathing patterns
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sweats and chills
- Watery eyes
- Weakness and fatigue
- Anxiety and depression
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramping
- Hypertension
- Achy joints and muscles
- Runny nose and nasal congestion
- Out of character agitation and irritability
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
Fentanyl Withdrawal Timeline
Fentanyl withdrawal typically begins anywhere from 12 to 24 hours after a person’s last use of fentanyl. Commonly, these symptoms peak within 48 hours and can lessen as soon as 72 hours after a person’s previous dose. As with withdrawal symptoms, the exact fentanyl timeline varies as it is dependent on several factors. For example, the severity of a person’s addiction, as well their age, weight, and overall health can influence the duration of detox.
The first stage of fentanyl withdrawal is considered to be anticipatory. During this time, individuals experience strong cravings and feelings of anxiety. The early acute phase of withdrawal marks the start of physical withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms worsen as a person continues into the fully-developed acute stage. This stage constitutes the peak of withdrawal.
As such, side effects are most prominent and dangerous during this time. Following this phase, withdrawal symptoms begin to subside and a person is ready to continue fentanyl addiction treatment. It is important to note that detoxing at a qualified facility greatly decreases an individual’s chance of developing post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).
PAWS can continue for months and include difficulty sleeping as well as feelings of anxiety and depression. A person commonly experiences PAWS when trying to stop drug use alone or cold turkey. This leads to a higher rate of relapse as a person is more vulnerable to triggers and cravings during this time.
Medications Used During Our Atlanta Fentanyl Detox
During fentanyl detox, we administer specific medications to relieve cravings and lessen withdrawal symptoms. Medications often used as part of medication-assisted treatment include the following:
- Methadone. An opioid agonist, methadone tricks a person’s brain into believing they are using. However, the individual does not get the euphoric feeling or “high” that is characteristic of the drug.
- Clonidine. Helpful in relieving the physical symptoms of withdrawal, this medication can make the overall detox process much more tolerable.
- Buprenorphine. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. Similar to methadone, it is useful in long-term relapse prevention.
- Naltrexone. A relapse prevention drug, naltrexone prevents users from getting high even if they use opioids.
- Antidepressants. Since depression and anxiety are common during treatment, antidepressants are often administered.
Begin Fentanyl Detox in Atlanta, GA Today
Fentanyl is an extremely powerful drug that leaves devastation and tragedy in its wake. Not only does it put your life at risk, but it drastically impacts your health as well as your ability to maintain relationships. Thankfully, help is available. The Retreat of Atlanta provides comprehensive fentanyl detox in the Atlanta area. We want our clients to succeed in recovery and are dedicated to helping them get their lives back on the right track. lastly, we accept some major insurance brands like TRICARE and Aetna.
To learn more about our services or to begin your journey to sobriety today, give us a call or visit our admissions page.
