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, treatment must be accessible for anyone struggling with fentanyl addiction. Our safe and effective fentanyl detox in Georgia sets individuals up for a meaningful and lasting recovery.
How to detox from fentanyl is a question we’re frequently asked. Detoxing from fentanyl can be dangerous. It’s vital to emphasize that due to its potency and withdrawal risks, medical supervision is necessary. Treatment for fentanyl addiction starts with a carefully managed detox process. Followed by personalized treatment plans addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. This integrated approach ensures not just detoxification but also long-term recovery and rehabilitation.
Our caring professionals are committed to offering individualized treatment that respects each person’s unique needs. We’ve created a safe, nurturing environment where clients undergo withdrawal under the close supervision of our qualified staff. By choosing fentanyl detox at Retreat of Atlanta, individuals are securing a place in a supportive community that’s focused on their well-being and committed to helping them take the first step toward a brighter future.
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. 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.
According to the National Safety Council, in 2020 the primary cause of preventable drug overdose fatalities, accounting for 77% of cases, were opioids, with a total of 75,785 reported deaths. These opioids encompass both prescribed medications and illicit substances. Among opioid-related overdoses, the drug category experiencing the most significant growth and frequency is “synthetic opioids other than methadone,” which includes substances like fentanyl, fentanyl analogs, and tramadol. Specifically, the fentanyl subgroup contributed to 67,325 preventable deaths in 2021, marking a 26% surge compared to the 53,480 fatalities recorded in 2020.
Tragically, less than 2 mg of fentanyl can lead to a fatal overdose. This concerning fact highlights the true potency of fentanyl as a deadly dose of heroin is equal to 100 mg. Fortunately, centers like our Georgia fentanyl detox 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 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 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 behavior
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Headache, fatigue, dizziness
What Happens During Fentanyl Detox in Georgia?
Detox refers to the process of cleansing a person of all drugs and toxins. As a result, the individual can begin treatment for fentanyl addiction with a healthy body and a clear mindset. It is important to stress that detoxing from fentanyl has risks. Our fentanyl detox program in Georgia provides clients with a safe, nurturing environment. Here, they 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 to maintain medical and emotional stability.
This includes the use of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as well as the following services:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
Overall, our goal is for clients to remain as comfortable as possible throughout withdrawal. Depending on the severity of a person’s addiction, clients typically spend between 1 to 2 weeks in our fentanyl detox in Georgia.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Understanding how to detox from fentanyl safely is critical. 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 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 Detox Timeline
How long does it take to detox from fentanyl? The answer varies depending on several factors, including the extent of use and the individual’s physical health. Typically, the acute phase of detox might span several days, with our medical team providing round-the-clock care to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety. Our approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring each client’s journey toward recovery is grounded in the latest science and the most effective strategies.
Understanding the fentanyl detox timeline is essential for individuals and their loved ones. 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 Georgia 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, significantly more potent than many other opioids, making it exceptionally powerful and highly addictive. It’s used medically for severe pain management but has become widespread in illegal drug markets, often mixed with other substances, increasing overdose risks. The drug’s potency is highlighted by its overdose threshold of less than 2 mg, contributing to a high number of overdose deaths.
What Happens During Fentanyl Detox in Georgia?
Detoxification from fentanyl at The Retreat of Atlanta involves a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan within a supportive environment. Clients receive 24/7 care, incorporating medication-assisted treatment and therapies like CBT and DBT to address both physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, preparing individuals for a sustained recovery journey.
Why Is Fentanyl So Addictive?
Fentanyl’s high potency and ability to quickly bind to brain receptors contribute to its addictive nature. It blocks pain and produces euphoria, but its potency also means tolerance develops rapidly, leading individuals to consume higher doses and increase their risk of overdose. Illicit fentanyl’s prevalence in mixed drug supplies further exacerbates its addictive potential and danger.
How Long Does It Take to Detox From Fentanyl?
The detox timeline for fentanyl varies based on individual factors such as dosage, duration of use, and personal health. Withdrawal symptoms can appear 6-12 hours after the last dose and peak around 1-3 days, with physical symptoms subsiding after about a week. Psychological symptoms, however, can persist for weeks or months, highlighting the necessity for professional support.
What to Expect During Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in Atlanta
During detox from fentanyl in Georgia, individuals can expect a comprehensive treatment approach that goes beyond standard opioid addiction therapies. Specialized programs, including medical detox, PHP, IOP, and OP, are designed to address the unique challenges of fentanyl addiction, offering a combination of medical management, therapy, and support tailored to ensure the best chances of recovery and long-term sobriety.
Begin Fentanyl Detox in Georgia 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. We provide safe and effective fentanyl detox at Retreat of Atlanta. Our goal is for each client to succeed in recovery. And we are dedicated to helping them get their lives back on the right track.
To learn more about our services or to begin fentanyl detox in Georgia, give us a call or visit our admissions page.
