Signs of Fentanyl Addiction
Learn to Spot the Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction
When a person has been abusing or becomes addicted to any substance, including Fentanyl, there are signs and symptoms friends, family members, and loved ones can look for if they suspect someone may be struggling with the drug. Individuals will often make excuses for why they look, feel, or are acting a certain way, but those close to them can tell the difference, even if it takes time.
Signs of Fentanyl addiction may include drowsiness, behavior changes, and tolerance to the drug. This last sign is essential to note, especially if the person has been initially prescribed Fentanyl for legitimate purposes. Substances in the same category can often become addicting even when taken as directed. Fentanyl addiction is often accompanied by physical dependence, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms when a person stops or cuts down on their use.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a drug in the opioid family. It is a synthetic opiate (opioid and opiate) that is often used interchangeably) that is 50 to 100 times stronger than Morphine. Fentanyl is marketed as Actiq, Duragesic, and Sublimaze and prescribed primarily for pain relief as part of its legitimate medical use.
Its fast-acting attribute is helpful when used as a prescribed pain medication and makes it a sought-after drug for illicit and recreational use. Fentanyl comes in several different forms, all of which are strong and can be abused. No matter how it’s taken, Fentanyl can be very addictive, and overdoses can be fatal.
Physical Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse and Addiction
Like all drugs in the opioid family that are prescribed by a doctor, in most cases for pain management, even when taken as directed, Fentanyl can become addicting. That’s why it is imperative to recognize the signs of fentanyl addiction when someone is taking Fentanyl.
Some of the symptoms of abuse and addiction include dizziness, nausea or vomiting, dry mouth, severe constipation, loss of appetite, depression, difficulty sleeping, headaches, and sweating. Like other drugs in the category, abusers of this drug seek the feeling of relaxation and the euphoric high, during which they will also display signs of abuse.
Behavioral Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction and Abuse
Drug abuse and addiction can cause behavioral symptoms both as a reaction to the substance and as a way of hiding the adverse effects of an individual’s activities. Fentanyl abusers and addicts will almost certainly show behavioral symptoms.
Fentanyl addicts, like other substance abusers, may stop spending time with family and friends so they can buy drugs without anyone reacting to their behavior. They may start making bad financial decisions, moving money that they shouldn’t, and as time goes on, asking people for loans. Not showing up for work, class, or important appointments is another sign that something is changing their life priorities.
Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction at WhiteSands
At WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab, we have put together a team of exceptional professionals, all with the goal of helping as many of our clients as possible enter recovery. For Fentanyl and other opioids, we have specialized programs for detox, rehab, and aftercare. Fentanyl users can take advantage of our slow taper detox process, which slowly removes the substance a person has been abusing from their system. By taking part in this type of detox, Fentanyl users can have withdrawal symptoms curbed. Rehab can take place in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab also coordinates with support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous so that our patients can successfully continue well into recovery. Take the first step today and give us a call to hear all about the treatment options for Fentanyl addiction we have available at our locations in Florida.
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.