Fentanyl has become notorious in recent years due to its role in the opioid epidemic and the astounding number of fatal overdoses tied to it. However, although it’s used as a street drug, it’s important to remember that it is also a valued medical substance for severe health conditions. That means people can become addicted unintentionally. If you or a loved one is using fentanyl, it’s important to understand the risks and know what abuse looks like.
Fentanyl abuse on any level requires treatment. At Hill Country, our fentanyl addiction treatment center provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment designed to help patients break the cycle of fentanyl abuse. We offer multiple treatment levels to meet our patients’ various needs.
Identifying Fentanyl Abuse
Because fentanyl is so dangerous, it is critical to be direct about its use. If you or a loved one takes fentanyl recreationally or without a prescription, it is fentanyl abuse. For those with a prescription for fentanyl, identifying misuse can be trickier. Many people falsely believe that having a prescription for a drug, including fentanyl, means they can take it as they see fit. However, taking a medication in any way other than how it is prescribed is also considered abuse.
If you are unsure whether or not you or a loved one is misusing fentanyl, ask the following questions:
- Are you/they taking it in larger doses or more frequently than prescribed?
- Do you/they see multiple doctors or visit more than one pharmacy to get prescriptions?
- Do you/they use alcohol or other drugs to enhance the effects of fentanyl?
- Do you/do they need higher doses than before to achieve the desired effects?
- Are you/they still using fentanyl even though your pain has subsided?
- Have you/they overdosed on fentanyl?
- Are you/they seeking out fentanyl illegally?
- Do you/they experience withdrawal symptoms when you/they decrease the dose or are out of fentanyl?
If you can answer yes to even one of the above questions, it can be a sign of fentanyl abuse. Seeking professional treatment is the safest way to overcome fentanyl misuse, avoid the destruction that comes with fentanyl addiction, and possibly save your life or that of your loved one.
Learn to Identify Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl binds to opioid receptors throughout the body that regulate pain and emotions. This reaction results in a significant release of dopamine, the body’s natural “feel good” chemical. When someone misuses fentanyl, brain chemistry is changed, and the body quickly becomes dependent on it to function. When fentanyl use is decreased or stopped, withdrawal begins as the brain attempts to restore its natural balance.
Experiencing fentanyl withdrawal symptoms is a standard sign of fentanyl abuse. The following are common signs and symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal:
- Cravings
- Diarrhea
- Muscle and bone aches and pains
- Intense sweating followed by cold flashes with goosebumps
- Elevated heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia or other sleep disturbances
- Restlessness, irritability, and agitation
The severity of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms depends on factors, including how long you’ve been abusing it, past overdoses, and the levels of fentanyl and other substances in your system. Psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression are also common. The fear of withdrawal symptoms often prevents people from stopping fentanyl use and can lead to a cycle of chronic return to use. The safest and most effective way to end fentanyl abuse is through professional treatment, where fentanyl withdrawal can be medically supervised. At Hill Country, we do everything possible to make you comfortable and keep you safe through the withdrawal process.
Call Hill Country Today for Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Asking for help is not always easy. At Hill Country, we understand this and commend you for taking this brave step. You will be accepted without judgment into our supportive treatment center to receive the care you deserve. Fentanyl abuse does not have to control you. Don’t let fear hold you back from making the most important decision of your life. We’ll help you take the next step.
Call 1.844.675.1628 today or complete the online form to enroll in our fentanyl addiction treatment center.