What to Expect From a Fentanyl Detox Center in Lantana, FL

Fentanyl is a powerful prescription opioid painkiller with a high potential for misuse and addiction. People who take fentanyl must be aware of the risk of physical dependence and take it only as prescribed. Still, the drug is so addictive that people may begin to develop tolerance and physical dependence while taking it under careful medical guidance.

The risk for addiction and other severe, life-threatening complications is increased when people use fentanyl recreationally or when people use other opioids. Drug dealers sometimes add fentanyl to heroin and other substances, putting users at risk of accidental overdose.

Because fentanyl is so potent, it is lethal in tiny doses. People who use fentanyl recreationally must seek treatment to stop using it, and those who use other opioids must stop to avoid the risk of unintentional exposure to fentanyl.

Fentanyl addiction is a complex condition that requires thoughtful, comprehensive treatment. For many with fentanyl dependence, recovery begins in a medical detox center.

Knowing what to expect during detox can help you stay motivated, even when it feels challenging. If you or someone you love needs treatment from a fentanyl detox center in Lantana, Florida, reach out to the specialists at Archstone Behavioral Health to learn about our high-quality programs and schedule an intake assessment.

Understanding Fentanyl Addiction

Fentanyl is a potent, synthetic opioid derived from the opium poppy plant. Chemically, it is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times stronger. Because of its potency, fentanyl is deadly in tiny doses. People who use fentanyl are at significant risk for overdose, and those who use other opioids may be exposed to fentanyl without knowing it.

Once someone ingests fentanyl, the drug quickly reaches the brain. It binds to opioid reception in the brain and throughout the body in areas related to pleasure, emotional regulation, and pain control. The brain releases endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that act as natural pain relief and provide pleasure.

Many people experience a rush of warmth and intense pleasure known as euphoria while using fentanyl. These pleasurable feelings can make people want to take higher or more frequent doses of fentanyl or to use it recreationally.

Fentanyl: The Risks and Effects

In addition to pain relief and euphoria, fentanyl can cause other side effects, including:

• Sedation
• Drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Confusion
• Slow, shallow breathing

One of the biggest concerns with fentanyl use is the significant risk of lethal overdose. A tiny amount of fentanyl can overwhelm a person’s body. People who use fentanyl regularly can easily take a deadly dose–and people who use other opioids may experience an unintended overdose if the drugs they use are tainted with fentanyl.

Signs of a fentanyl overdose include:

• Constricted (small) pupils
• Clammy or cold skin
• Pale or blueish skin
• Blue lips and fingernails
• Respiratory depression–very slow or shallow breathing
• Respiratory arrest–stopped breathing
• Decrease or loss of consciousness
• Limp arms and legs
• Slurred speech or inability to speak
• Making gurgling or choking sounds
• Unresponsiveness
• Vomiting

A fentanyl overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. If someone near you is having a fentanyl overdose, call 911 right away. Administer naloxone if available and wait with the person until EMS arrives.

The only sure way to prevent a fentanyl overdose is to stop using it and avoid recreational opioid use. Seek treatment for fentanyl abuse or opioid addiction as soon as you recognize a problem.

What to Expect From a Fentanyl Detox Center in Lantana

Fentanyl addiction treatment in Lantana typically begins with a medical detox program. Most people who attempt to stop using fentanyl and other opioids on their own are unsuccessful because of how addictive these drugs are. Medical support and supervision are essential to safely stop using fentanyl and maintain long-term sobriety.

During a treatment program at a fentanyl detox center, people receive care, supervision, and treatment to keep them safe during detox. Treatment plans typically include:

• Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings
• Emotional support, including group and individual therapy, when appropriate
• Round-the-clock supervision
• Medical monitoring
• Gradual tapering of opioids to reduce withdrawal symptoms

Having the support of a fentanyl detox center in Lantana, Florida means you’ll be more likely to complete detox and be ready to participate in life-saving treatment.

Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal

Fentanyl withdrawal occurs when someone with physical dependence on fentanyl suddenly stops using it. People often experience fentanyl withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Muscle and bone pain
• Severe stomach cramping
• Elevated blood pressure
• Chills and goosebumps
• Excessive yawning
• Leg twitching
• Runny nose
• Teary eyes
• Fever
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Intense, persistent cravings

Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can make people very uncomfortable, and many relapse before detoxification is complete. Relapsing during detox can be fatal because of lowered tolerance for fentanyl.

Assessment

The first phase of detox is the assessment. A healthcare professional evaluates the individual’s fentanyl use, medical history, and overall health. The assessment involves physical and psychological evaluations to determine the extent of fentanyl use, any co-occurring disorders, and the individual’s readiness for detoxification. The assessment helps in creating a personalized treatment plan.

Medical Stabilization

Once the assessment is complete and the severity of fentanyl use is determined, the next step is medical stabilization. This phase focuses on managing the acute physical symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal while ensuring the individual’s safety and comfort. Medical supervision and interventions might be necessary to address complications or severe withdrawal symptoms. Medications like Suboxone or methadone may be prescribed.

Treatment Planning

After the initial assessment and stabilization, a comprehensive treatment plan is developed. This plan is tailored to the individual’s specific needs and may include various components such as counseling, behavioral therapies, medications, and support groups. The goal is to address the underlying reasons for fentanyl use, provide necessary support, and equip the individual with coping mechanisms to prevent fentanyl relapse.

Find a Fentanyl Detox Center in Lantana, FL

Fentanyl detox can be challenging, but the support you need to be successful is just a phone call away. If you or someone you love need treatment in a fentanyl detox center in Lantana, FL, reach out to the specialists at Archstone Behavioral Health now. Our comprehensive detox programs will help you put fentanyl use behind you so that you can have the healthy, fulfilling future you deserve.