Fentanyl is a deadly opioid that has a high rate of addiction and death. Currently, there are nearly half a million people over the age of 12 admitting to misusing fentanyl.1 Recognizing the signs of fentanyl abuse becomes necessary if you or a loved one is abusing this addictive drug and ready for a new start.
Outreach Recovery is a full-service addiction treatment center that welcomes all people with a fentanyl addiction. Our outpatient addiction treatment programs are designed around your original reason behind the addiction and the severity of your current symptoms. You will participate in group and private therapy sessions at one of our locations or through telehealth services.
For more information regarding our fentanyl addiction treatment program, call 888.897.9284 today to speak with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Fentanyl Addiction Signs
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than morphine and is used to treat chronic severe pain or severe pain after surgery or a car accident. It was originally developed in 1959 by Dr. Paul Janssen as an intravenous surgical analgesic. Due to its potency, it was only used in operating rooms and on large animals. Today, fentanyl overdose rates are on the rise and have risen 38.1% over a one-year period and are climbing.2
If you or a loved one is using fentanyl, there are some tell-tale signs that point to an addiction. Here are some of the fentanyl addiction signs to look for:
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Pain relief
- Sedation
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
Other symptoms include urinary retention, pupillary constrictions, and respiratory depression. Fentanyl overdose symptoms include changes in pupil size, clammy skin, cyanosis, an inability to wake up, and coma or death.
At Outreach Recovery, we are familiar with the signs of fentanyl abuse and work with people who need an addiction recovery program. Recovery programs include cognitive-behavioral therapy, life skills training, medication-assisted treatment, and replacement prevention therapy.
Signs of Fentanyl Abuse
Signs of fentanyl addiction are easy to notice if you know what to look for. Those with an addiction will go to great lengths to hide the abuse, including pulling away from family and friends, social isolation, and changes in their behaviors.
If you know someone who is abusing fentanyl, here are the signs of fentanyl abuse:
- Small, pinpoint pupils
- Shallow breathing
- Lapses in consciousness
- Drowsiness
- Flu-like symptoms
- Constant itching and scratching
- A lack of coordination
- Noticeable euphoria
If they continue to use fentanyl, the likelihood of forming addiction increases dramatically. Here are the symptoms of fentanyl abuse:
- Isolating from friends and family
- Changing friend groups
- Dramatic mood swings
- Legal consequences and arrests
- Financial problems
- Gaining/losing weight
The signs of a fentanyl overdose are small, constricted pupils, loss of consciousness, choking or gurgling sounds, and vomiting. Other signs include a limp body, cold or clammy skin, and a blueish tint on the fingertips and lips.
If the abuse is left to continue, the risk of an overdose increases dramatically. If you recognize any of these signs and symptoms in a friend or loved one, it is time to enroll in a fentanyl addiction treatment program. Each program includes group and private therapy sessions in person or through remote services. Programs include behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic therapies for a set amount of time.
Outreach Recovery: Start Your Recovery with Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Today
Outreach Recovery is a full-service addiction treatment center that welcomes anyone who is addicted to fentanyl. We tailor our treatment programs to fit the individual. In addition, we will include behavioral and holistic therapies along with medication-assisted treatment. Patients participate in private and group therapy sessions led by a professional behavioral therapist.
To learn more about the signs of fentanyl abuse, fill out our online contact form or call 888.897.9284 today to schedule a consultation.
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