Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous opioid substances used today. A powerful pain reliever intended for acute emergency medical situations, fentanyl is also highly addictive when not carefully monitored, creating an intense dependency. If you are using this substance outside of a prescription, seeking detox and treatment is critical.
The Risks of Using Fentanyl
Fentanyl use carries significant risk. Though it is prescribed for intense pain management, it takes just a very small amount of this drug to create significant changes in brain chemistry. What’s more, other drugs are often laced with fentanyl as a way to create a strong addiction in those seeking opioids. Data from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) states that fentanyl is a Schedule II drug much like morphine but 100 times more potent.
Those that sell fentanyl illicitly often mask the amount of substance present. The DEA states that about 42% of the pills they test for fentanyl contain at least 2 mg of the substance, which is a potentially lethal dose. For all of these reasons, if you find yourself caught in illicit fentanyl use, it may be time to explore drug treatment in Lubbock.
When Fentanyl Detox Is Necessary
In 2022, 73,838 people overdosed and died from the use of opioids, primarily fentanyl. For those who want to stop using it, the detoxification process can be intense, and without treatment, you may find yourself seeking out more of the substance. You should not try to detox on your own; instead, seek out a safe and protected medical environment like the one we offer at Ranch at Dove Tree.
Using professional detox services enables you to get the type and level of care you need to meet your mental, emotional, and physical needs throughout the detox process. Without this type of support, you may experience withdrawal complications that endanger your life or that make it impossible for you to stop using the drug.
Consider what our drug detox treatment program offers and how it works.
- Withdrawal symptom management
One of the most challenging components of drug detox is navigating the withdrawal symptoms. Your brain becomes so dependent on a substance like fentanyl that it fights back when you stop using it, even for a short amount of time. This “fighting back” often includes intense physical and emotional symptoms that can make it very challenging for you to not seek out the substance.
In detox for fentanyl, we can minimize these risks by providing resources to effectively manage your withdrawal symptoms. We do this through a customized strategy designed specifically for your needs. This may include medications and other interventions that alleviate the discomfort, anxiety, and pain you may be feeling.
- Doctor-supervised care
When you stop using fentanyl, it is possible your withdrawal symptoms will include health-related risks. Your heart rate may spike. You may deal with some level of psychosis during the process. Some people also experience intense illness.
With doctor-supervised drug detox, you and your family do not need to worry about your health. Healthcare professionals are available 24/7 to ensure protection of your heart, lungs, and other systems and to help you get through the detox process safely.
- Psychological support
Fentanyl detox can lead to some emotional and mental health challenges. Here’s the good news: When you choose The Ranch at Dove Tree for treatment, we provide you with the emotional and psychological support and counseling you need throughout the detox process.
You get help to manage the stress. You also get guidance on how to overcome the challenges, including trauma and emotional pain detox may bring up. You are also never alone through this process.
- Individualized recommendations for continued treatment
Detox is just the beginning of recovery from fentanyl dependence and addiction. Our team will work with you to provide a thorough assessment of your mental, emotional, and physical needs and to recommend a plan for ongoing treatment. If you were taking opioids for chronic pain, we can help you learn how to manage pain without addictive drugs.
Are You Ready to Put Fentanyl Behind You?
In a non-judgmental, highly supportive environment like The Ranch at Dove Tree, you can move beyond the control, trauma, and fear that comes from fentanyl use. Turn to our team today for a discussion on what your options may be. With help available 24 hours a day, you can feel good about turning to us for the care you need.