What Are the Signs of Fentanyl Addiction in Teens?

Fentanyl addiction in teens is a worrisome problem in the U.S. Fentanyl is a powerful narcotic that’s prescribed to treat severe pain, but it’s also a leading drug of abuse. Unfortunately, this dangerous opioid has addictive properties and is often abused not only by those prescribed the drug but also by those who take it recreationally. Fentanyl has been implicated in thousands of overdose deaths owing to its potent properties. Teens may not be aware of the danger that this drug poses to their health and well-being.

Understanding the signs of Fentanyl addiction in teens is crucial. Teens who knowingly abuse the drug are at great risk of adverse effects but teens may not always know when the drug they think they are taking is laced with Fentanyl. Many drug dealers add Fentanyl to other drugs to heighten their effects. The result is a dangerous and all-too-often deadly cocktail. 

WhiteSands offers a full continuum of care for people who have a substance abuse problem or substance addiction. We treat opioid addiction with empathy. Our licensed clinicians can help people who are struggling to stop using drugs or alcohol. A Fentanyl addiction in teens is so dangerous as to require immediate care. Knowing the signs of a Fentanyl addiction in teens can help you protect them from the dangers of this opioid.

Understanding Fentanyl and Its Impact on Teenagers

Fentanyl reduces pain and, in doing so, also causes other effects like calm and drowsiness. When abused, the drug can even cause feelings of euphoria and tremendous relaxation. It’s important to note that Fentanyl, like other opioids, targets an area of the brain that is precariously close to the control center for respiratory function. Too much Fentanyl suppresses the respiratory system, which can lead to overdose and death. In short, Fentanyl can slow and stop breathing. A drug that is 100 times more powerful in strength than morphine, Fentanyl can cause death, which makes it one of the most dangerous prescription drugs. 

Teens may not understand the power of Fentanyl or that its impact can be deadly. Teens can also quickly develop a Fentanyl addiction, which is a chronic condition that will require lifelong management. The risks of Fentanyl abuse cannot be overestimated, but teens may simply not understand the very real risks they incur when abusing this drug–or abusing any drug that might be laced with it.

Recognizing the Physical Signs of Fentanyl Addiction in Teens

Teens who abuse Fentanyl are likely to demonstrate physical signs and symptoms that should not be ignored. The physical signs of Fentanyl use in teens may include:

• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Nausea and vomiting
• Reduced coordination
• Increased sweating
• Fatigue/lethargy

If your teen is displaying unusual signs or symptoms, it’s important to get to the bottom of it. If your teen is showing signs of slowed breathing or other serious symptoms, seek emergency treatment. 

Behavioral Changes: Indicators of Fentanyl Addiction in Teens

Teens, like adults, will typically demonstrate behavioral symptoms associated with a drug use/abuse problem. Behavioral symptoms of Fentanyl abuse might include:

• Lying about drug use
• Stealing drugs or money
• Poor performance in school
• No longer enjoying activities they used to take pleasure in 
• Increased isolation from family and friends

Behavioral signs of drug abuse and addiction can be challenging to deal with, but it’s essential to determine if drugs and alcohol are involved in your teen’s behavioral changes. Visiting WhiteSands for an evaluation of their condition is the first step to contending with a teen drug abuse problem. 

The Psychological Effects of Fentanyl on Teenagers 

Teens who abuse Fentanyl are likely to experience psychological effects. These effects might mimic symptoms of a mental health condition or disturbance. Psychological signs of Fentanyl abuse in teens may involve:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Irritability or aggression

Fentanyl abuse is likely to lead to signs and symptoms that are physical, behavioral, and psychological. Remember that WhiteSands can provide treatment for Fentanyl abuse problems or addiction. 

The Risks of Fentanyl Use in Teen Development

Even when used as directed by a physician, Fentanyl can still lead to dependence and addiction. This is because of its highly addictive properties. People who take Fentanyl can quickly develop a tolerance to the dose they are taking. To achieve the same effects from the drug as before, people may increase the dose. But even slight increases can pave the path to renewed tolerance, repeated dose increases, dependence, and addiction. 

Teens taking Fentanyl invariably do so without the consent of medical providers or their parents. They may not know about all the dangers this drug poses. This lack of awareness only serves to heighten the risks of Fentanyl abuse. 

Fentanyl and other powerful drugs can impede normal brain development in teens. The fact is, that drug addiction of any sort can change the chemistry of the brain in teens and adults. The fact that teens’ brains are still developing leaves them more vulnerable to incurring mental health problems. 

How to Talk to Teens About Fentanyl and Drug Use

It’s helpful to talk to teens about Fentanyl as well as other drugs of abuse so that teens understand the risks of taking such chemicals. It can be daunting to find out that your teen has been abusing drugs. Are they dependent on drugs? What is the nature of the abuse and are they addicted? These are questions that need answers. WhiteSands can help.

If you aren’t sure how to discuss Fentanyl abuse with your teen, you can rely on the therapists at WhiteSands for help. Consult with our addiction specialists about how to best help your teen to safeguard their health and future. 

Treatment Options for Fentanyl Addiction in Teens

There are treatment options for teens available at WhiteSands. Fentanyl addiction is an opioid addiction. It’s not a condition to take lightly, but it can be effectively managed. Treatment is the key to addressing this problem and helping your teen prevent relapse. 

Generally, the steps to managing a teen Fentanyl addiction include medical detox, inpatient or outpatient rehab treatment, and aftercare. Some teens may need dual diagnosis treatment if they also have a mental health condition. Family therapy is also ideal for situations involving teen drug abuse. Today, families have different options for addressing drug addiction. WhiteSands can help you find the ideal plan for your teen. 

WhiteSands Treatment: Helping Teens Overcome Fentanyl Addiction

WhiteSands is a leading addiction treatment center that offers a full range of addiction treatment programs, including clinically supervised detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment, dual diagnosis treatment, and aftercare. Our plans include both individual and group therapies. Our rehab offers various treatment approaches that include evidence-based treatments, alternative treatments, and holistic therapies. Together, these therapies address all aspects of addiction. 

Contact WhiteSands and let us help you develop a treatment plan for your teen that’s based on their individual needs. We can include family therapy in their plan so that you can be involved in the recovery process. Fentanyl addiction in teens is serious. It will not go away on its own. Get help today. Call us to learn more about our enrollment process and treatment options. 

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.