Fentanyl Addiction Treatment

MACON FENTANYL ADDICTION TREATMENT

Leading Fentanyl Abuse Treatment and Support in Georgia

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic that has similarities to morphine but can be up to 100 times more potent. It has seen widespread use in medical settings as an anesthetic and pain reliever, but it also has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Fentanyl abuse can lead to serious health problems, including overdose and death, especially when combined with other drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, the misuse of fentanyl has become increasingly common across the United States due to its availability in many forms such as tablets, patches, powder, or even lollipops.

Call (478) 216-1110 or contact us online to schedule an appointment and learn more about fentanyl addiction treatment in Macon.

Any person struggling with fentanyl addiction should seek professional help so they can receive appropriate treatment and support. At the Georgia Recovery Campus, we recognize how insurmountable a fentanyl addiction may seem but are committed to leveraging our extensive resources to help patients detox and get on the road to recovery. Our Macon fentanyl addiction treatment professionals make it their mission to deliver quality care to those with substance abuse and mental health issues in a state-of-the-art facility that puts patients first.

The Risks of Fentanyl Misuse

Fentanyl is highly addictive because it triggers the same reward pathways in the brain as other opioids. When taken, fentanyl binds to opioid receptors which causes a flood of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, creating an intense feeling of euphoria that can be difficult to stop seeking. When abused, fentanyl can lead to serious health problems, including overdose and death if combined with other drugs or alcohol. When used regularly, tolerance and physical dependence on the drug can develop quickly, forcing users to take more fentanyl or risk severe withdrawal symptoms if use is stopped abruptly. As such, fentanyl addiction often requires professional help to ensure long-term recovery success.

Identifying Fentanyl Addiction: Key Signs and Symptoms

If you or someone you know is showing signs of fentanyl addiction, it is essential to seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist for assessment and treatment options. Signs of fentanyl addiction can vary but may include:

  • Increased Tolerance: Needing higher doses of fentanyl to achieve the desired effects over time.
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when not using fentanyl, such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, or muscle aches.
  • Obsessive Thinking: Spending a significant amount of time thinking about obtaining and using fentanyl, to the detriment of other activities and responsibilities.
  • Social Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities in favor of spending time using fentanyl.
  • Continued Use Despite Consequences: Continuing to use fentanyl despite experiencing negative consequences such as health problems, financial difficulties, or legal issues.
  • Loss of Control: Feeling unable to control or stop using fentanyl despite wanting to quit or cut back.
  • Changes in Behavior: Engaging in risky or erratic behavior to obtain fentanyl, such as stealing or lying.
  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Neglecting important obligations such as work, school, or family responsibilities due to fentanyl use.
  • Changes in Appearance: Physical changes such as weight loss, changes in hygiene, or track marks from injecting fentanyl.
  • Craving: Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use fentanyl.

The Long-Term Effects of Fentanyl Dependency

The long-term consequences of fentanyl addiction can be far-reaching and serious. Physically, individuals may experience a wide range of health complications due to the drug’s powerful effects on the brain. Beyond creating a physical dependence, abusing fentanyl over time can cause changes to the brain’s structure and functionality, leading to cognitive impairments and memory loss.

Fentanyl addiction can also take a toll on an individual’s psychological well-being. Chronic users often become preoccupied with obtaining more drugs and avoiding withdrawal symptoms, which can lead to significant life disruption and social isolation from family and friends. Additionally, abusing fentanyl over time increases an individual’s risk of experiencing an overdose or other medical emergencies such as heart attack or stroke.

Our Macon fentanyl addiction treatment program is designed to effectively combat the short- and long-term health consequences of this drug. Our program includes medically assisted, professionally supervised detoxication combined with a robust mix of evidence-based treatments.

The Dangers of Going "Cold Turkey"

It is not recommended to quit fentanyl “cold turkey” due to the risk of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms. Quitting fentanyl abruptly can lead to intense physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, chills/sweats, insomnia, depression or anxiety, cravings for more opioids, and increased sensitivity to pain. These symptoms can be dangerous and even life-threatening if not managed properly. Even if someone manages to “quit” fentanyl cold turkey, they are likely to eventually relapse if additional treatment is not sought. As such, it is important for those struggling with opioid addiction to seek professional help so they can receive appropriate treatment and support as they work toward recovery. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does fentanyl addiction treatment take?

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your addiction and individual needs. Inpatient programs typically last 30-90 days, while outpatient programs can range from a few weeks to several months. Aftercare planning is an ongoing process that can last for years.

How does fentanyl addiction affect the brain?

Fentanyl binds to opioid receptors in the brain, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of pleasure. Over time, the brain adapts to the drug, leading to tolerance and dependence.

What is the role of therapy in fentanyl addiction treatment?

Therapy helps individuals address the underlying causes of addiction, such as trauma, stress, and mental health disorders. It also teaches coping skills and relapse prevention strategies.

How can family and friends support someone with fentanyl addiction?

Family and friends can support loved ones with fentanyl addiction by:

  • Encouraging them to seek professional help
  • Avoiding enabling behaviors
  • Providing emotional support
  • Learning about addiction and recovery

If you or a loved one has developed a fentanyl dependency, do not hesitate to reach out to learn more about our treatment center. Call (478) 216-1110 or contact us online to get started.

What Are the Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse?

Recognizing that there is a problem is the first step to helping someone who may have developed a fentanyl dependency. Remember, fentanyl can be a legal, prescribed drug, and many people who have become dependent on it were introduced to it through legitimate medical channels. Once someone starts using fentanyl, however, it can be difficult to stop. That is why it is so important to look out for signs that a loved one may be abusing fentanyl so that you can intervene before the abuse worsens or tragedy strikes.

People who have become addicted to fentanyl may feel ashamed of their addiction or may not want to talk about it out of fear of judgment or stigma. It can consequently be difficult to have meaningful conversations with addicted loved ones because they are often in denial, withdrawn, or unwilling to open up about their struggle. 

If you are preparing to have this conversation with your loved one, try to remain patient, non-judgmental, and compassionate whenever possible. Emphasize that you are concerned about their safety and well-being and only want to help them get the care they need. 

Signs that someone may be abusing fentanyl include:

  • Anxiety
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Decreased libido 
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Elevated energy levels
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Inability to feel pleasure
  • Increased irritability
  • Increased tolerance for pain
  • Irregular sleeping habits
  • Poor hygiene
  • Reckless decision-making
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Sudden weight loss
  • “Track marks” near veins 

If you or someone you know is considering pursuing a detox, we invite you to call (478) 216-1110 or contact us online to learn more about our program’s approach to fentanyl abuse.

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