According to recent statistics, as many as one in every three Americans were prescribed opiate painkilling medications in 2015. This alarming figure suggests that prescription opiate use has jumped drastically over the past few years. Unfortunately, this class of drugs is well-known for leading to physical dependence and addiction in many cases. Fentanyl is an opiate that can lead to dangerous repercussions. What is fentanyl, and how can you detect the signs of a possible addiction? The information below will answer these pressing questions.
At DetoxLA, we offer comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment that can help you or a loved one break free from the grip of this dangerous drug. Please don’t hesitate to call us today at 818.616.7341 for more information about our Los Angeles medical detox program.
What Is Fentanyl?
So, what is fentanyl, exactly? Fentanyl is an extremely powerful prescription opioid pain-relieving medication. Medical experts describe it as being over 50 times more powerful than heroin and over 100 times more potent than morphine. As with other opiate medications, the risk of developing an addiction to fentanyl is quite high.
Fentanyl is one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs in the United States. This is due, in part, to the fact that it is available in both pill and patch form. The patches are often prescribed to patients who are recovering from surgery or who are suffering from chronic pain. The pills are typically used to manage pain after an injury. However, because fentanyl is so potent, it is very easy to develop a dependence on the drug, even when it is taken as prescribed.
Symptoms of a Fentanyl Addiction
Since the risk of developing a physical dependence is so high, it’s important for an individual to be aware of the signs associated with a fentanyl addiction. Consider the following four signs of opiate addiction.
Appetite and Weight Loss
Drugs such as opiate painkillers can slow down the digestive process. As a result, this can lead to a decrease in appetite and a subsequent weight loss.
Drowsiness and Slurred Speech
Opiate medications can cause drowsiness and affect a person’s ability to think clearly. In some cases, opiates can also lead to slurred speech.
Mental Health Concerns
Fentanyl use can quickly result in new and worsening mental health concerns. Fentanyl and other opiate addictions can lead to symptoms such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Social withdrawal
- Excessive mood swings
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help.
Physical Dependency
Since the effects of opiates such as fentanyl are very strong, it’s common for people using this drug to become used to the effects over time. This requires them to consume more of the drug to experience the same effects, which ultimately can lead to a physical addiction. Attempting to stop using the drug can then result in devastating opiate withdrawal symptoms.
Why Seek Professional Treatment?
The majority of people who develop an addiction to fentanyl require professional treatment in order to overcome their dependency. Thankfully, drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs exist to provide such vital help. Seeking treatment from a quality rehabilitation facility can help an individual recover from addiction and lead a peaceful and fulfilling life.
Learn More at DetoxLA
DetoxLA is an outpatient drug rehab center located in California. Located in beautiful Los Angeles, our detox program is designed to provide just the peaceful environment needed to facilitate healing. With a multitude of therapeutic interventions and the following amenities, the process of healing from addiction is made as comfortable as possible.
If you are facing addiction, you don’t have to suffer alone. You can overcome your addiction with the help of a quality rehab program. Contact DetoxLA today at 818.616.7341 to find out how we can help you get started on the path to recovery.