Fentanyl is an extremely powerful and highly addictive synthetic opioid that interacts with the same brain receptors that are affected by heroin, morphine, opium, and similar substances. People who misuse Fentanyl may be at risk for several negative outcomes, including addiction, overdose, and death.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid commonly prescribed for severe, acute pain under brand names such as Fentanylare Abstral, Actiq, Duragesic, Ionsys, Sublimaze, and Subsys. The only way to legally acquire and use these medications is via prescription. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that fentanyl is as much as 50 times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times stronger than morphine. Due to its potency, fentanyl is often added to heroin or used on its own. Thankfully, fentanyl addiction is a treatable condition. When a person receives the therapy, medication, and support provided in a fentanyl treatment program, long-term abstinence and recovery is more than possible.

Signs & Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction

To determine if someone needs fentanyl treatment, it’s important to consult with a qualified professional. Completing an assessment and receiving a diagnosis are two important steps on the path toward fentanyl treatment and recovery. The following are among the more common signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction:

  • Trying to borrow, buy, or steal fentanyl that was prescribed to someone else
  • Visiting several doctors in an illicit attempt to get multiple prescriptions for fentanyl (a practice that is often referred to as “doctor shopping”)
  • Using fentanyl when it is obviously dangerous to do so, such as when drinking or using other drugs
  • Continuing to use fentanyl even after they’ve experienced negative effects due to prior use
  • Needing to use greater amounts of fentanyl to achieve the effect they’re seeking
  • Experiencing physical and psychological pain when unable to acquire or use fentanyl
  • Being secretive or deceptive about their activities and whereabouts
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Demonstrating significant changes in mood, appearance, and energy level

Signs & Symptoms of Fentanyl Overdose

Fentanyl overdose is one of the leading causes of drug overdose deaths in the United States. Overdose can occur the first time a person uses fentanyl, or it can happen to a person who has a long history of fentanyl misuse. Because fentanyl may be surreptitiously mixed with heroin or other recreational substances, some people may overdose on fentanyl without realizing they were using the drug. Anyone who exhibits any of the fentanyl overdose signs listed here needs immediate medical attention. Common fentanyl overdose signs include:

  • Extremely slow or shallow breathing
  • Faint pulse
  • Cool, clammy skin
  • Bluish coloration near lips and fingertips
  • Loss of consciousness

What Happens During Fentanyl Treatment?

Fentanyl treatment at Longleaf Recovery & Wellness typically includes an array of therapeutic services. Following a thorough intake assessment, each client in our fentanyl treatment program receives a customized plan to guide their care. Fentanyl treatment clients at Longleaf Recovery & Wellness typically participate in individual, group, and family sessions that may incorporate the practices and principles of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing.

We also offer holistic therapy, trauma-informed care, contingency management services, and 12-Step education and support. Some fentanyl treatment clients may receive medication-assisted treatment, or MAT. This evidence-based approach to addiction treatment incorporates prescription medications as well as therapy. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help people end their fentanyl use without experiencing intense cravings and other symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal.

Begin Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Today

Longleaf Recovery & Wellness is a trusted provider of personalized care for people whose lives have been disrupted by fentanyl misuse and addiction. Here, fentanyl treatment clients receive customized services from a team of dedicated professionals in a welcoming and supportive environment. When you’re ready to start living a healthier life, Longleaf Recovery & Wellness is here for you. Visit our admissions page to fully understand how the admissions process works. Get started with treatment today by request more information about Longleaf Recovery & Wellness.

Our Recovery Center Locations

Our specialized treatment facilities are dedicated to assisting adults and families grappling with mental health challenges and addiction. We address the underlying stressors, offering a transformative path to change and sustained support for a restored life.

Birmingham Recovery Center
2501 International Park
Birmingham , AL 35243
205.813.7400
Longleaf Wellness Birmingham
2441 International Park
Birmingham , AL 35243
205.813.7402
Longleaf Recovery Huntsville
450 Dunlop Blvd SW
Madison , AL 35758
256.542.0022
Longleaf Recovery Baldwin
13920 Cypress Way
Spanish Fort , AL 36527
251.272.7070

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