Detoxing from any substance is extremely difficult. Fentanyl withdrawal is no different. Individuals who are addicted to fentanyl often ask, what is fentanyl withdrawal like? This question is only answered through the understanding of what fentanyl is, what it does to the body, and how the body reacts when fentanyl is abruptly stopped.
Medical supervision during the detoxing process is vital to individuals who are struggling with fentanyl addiction and it can reduce the risk of a future relapse. Furthermore, drug rehab provides individuals with the ability to learn their triggers and find healthy ways of coping with them.
The reality is that fentanyl addiction is considered a deadly disease due to the high risk of fatal overdose. Thus, individuals who are addicted to the drug should seek help immediately. Safe medical detox and drug rehab treatment are the foundation for long term recovery in fentanyl users.
What Type Of Drug Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is an extremely powerful opiate that has medical uses in the United States for pain and surgical procedures. However, it can also be bought illegally and abused for euphoric effects that it produces when consumed. The drug is classified as a Schedule II drug. Meaning, that while fentanyl has medical uses, it also has a high risk of abuse, dependency, and addiction.
Fentanyl is produced in a couple of different ways. There is a patch form that is placed onto the body for absorption into the bloodstream. It is also produced as both a liquid and powder form. All of these forms are dangerous to use without the supervision of a doctor. Furthermore, the use of fentanyl in any form can lead to overdose and death.
Fentanyl comes in patch form, which can be placed on the body and absorbed into the bloodstream. There is also powdered form which can be smoked, snorted, or mixed with water and injected directly into the bloodstream. Any of these methods of use can lead to overdose, and fentanyl overdose is dangerous and can lead to death.
When fentanyl is used for a long time the body develops a dependency on the drug. What fentanyl withdrawal is like can be affected by the amount of time someone has been using the drug. During the withdrawal process the brain will need to rewire itself to process emotions and pain without the drug. The effects of consuming fentanyl can include:
- Sedation
- Drowsiness and sleepiness
- Nausea and upset stomach
- Shallow or difficulty breathing
- Constipation
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Forgetfulness
If you notice that anyone is exhibiting the side effects of fentanyl, then it can be a warning sign that the person is struggling with addiction. Other signs of addiction include isolation, depression, irregular behavior, ignoring daily responsibilities and more. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of fentanyl abuse here.
What is Fentanyl Withdrawal Like?
When fentanyl is taken away from the body, it reacts with physical and psychological symptoms. In order to explain what fentanyl withdrawal is like, one must explain the symptoms of withdrawal. Abruptly stopping use of the drug is normally uncomfortable and can cause mild to severe symptoms. Individuals should be under medical supervision and monitored by professionals during the detox process in order to avoid any potential complications.
Symptoms of Fentanyl Withdrawal
It is important to note that the symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can vary from person to person. That’s why explaining what fentanyl withdrawal is like can be difficult. Factors that may impact what fentanyl withdrawal is like include length of use, method of consumption, and the amount being used on a daily basis. Furthermore, certain health conditions can complicate the withdrawal process.
The symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal include:
- Diarrhea
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Chills
- Excessive sweating
- Sneezing
- Watering eyes
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Muscle aches and cramps
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
Normally, withdrawal from fentanyl is not life threatening. However, the symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable. Therefore, the detox process should be done under medical care and supervision at a drug rehab in order to prevent complications. Risks include dehydration which can potentially lead to heart failure. Another risk is increased anxiety and depression that can lead back to drug use and an increased risk of fatal overdose and death.
Finding Help for Fentanyl Withdrawal in Cherry Hill, NJ
Fentanyl withdrawal is uncomfortable, and can lead to relapse due to how difficult the symptoms are to handle. This is why entering into a drug rehab in order to receive medical help is crucial to successfully recovering from fentanyl addiction. Here at The Healing Center, our addiction specialists provide care for those struggling with drug and alcohol disorders. We provide a safe and comfortable environment overcoming your fentanyl addiction, and our team of professionals can address any questions or concerns that you may have. Contact our admissions team today, and begin your journey of recovery and healing at our drug rehab.
