Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous opioids available today. This synthetic drug is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and has contributed significantly to the rise in overdose deaths across the United States. If you or a loved one is struggling with this specific type of opioid abuse, finding fentanyl addiction treatment as soon as possible can be lifesaving.
What To Know About Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl is often prescribed to manage severe pain, particularly for those recovering from surgery or dealing with chronic illnesses like cancer. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) has flooded the drug market, often laced into other substances like heroin or counterfeit prescription pills.
Many people are unaware they’re consuming fentanyl, leading to a high risk of overdose. Since 2013, there’s been a concerning rise in overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids, particularly IMF. From 2021 to 2022, these deaths increased by about 4%, highlighting the ongoing challenges of the U.S. opioid epidemic.1 While these numbers are difficult to hear, they reaffirm the importance of coming together as a community to address this crisis. Recovery is possible, and with the right support and care, we can work toward a future where hope replaces heartbreak.
What Are the Troubling Side Effects of Fentanyl Use?
Fentanyl affects the central nervous system (CNS), producing a powerful high that can quickly lead to dependence. Even when taken as prescribed, it carries significant risks. Some of the most common fentanyl side effects include:
- Extreme drowsiness or sedation
- Confusion and disorientation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or loss of coordination
- Constipation
- Slowed or stopped breathing
- Unconsciousness or coma
Because fentanyl is so potent, even small doses can suppress breathing to dangerous levels. If someone exhibits signs of an overdose—such as shallow breathing, blue lips, or unresponsiveness—immediate medical intervention with naloxone (Narcan®) is critical.
What Are the Signs of Fentanyl Abuse?
Recognizing the signs of fentanyl abuse early is vital to preventing serious health consequences. Warning signs may include taking fentanyl in higher doses than prescribed or using it without a prescription, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using, and noticeable changes in sleep patterns or mood. Other indicators can include isolating from family and friends, unexplained financial struggles due to purchasing drugs, seeking multiple prescriptions through doctor shopping, and neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home.
If you or someone you know is showing these signs, seeking help from a rehab center like The Right Step can provide the necessary support for recovery.
What Are the Dangers of Fentanyl Abuse in the Long Term?
The dangers of fentanyl extend far beyond short-term side effects. Long-term use can result in:
- Severe dependence and addiction – Fentanyl rewires the brain’s reward system, making it extremely difficult to quit without professional help.
- Increased overdose risk – Tolerance builds quickly, leading people to take higher doses that their bodies can’t handle.
- Cognitive decline – Prolonged opioid use can impair memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities.
- Respiratory problems – Chronic fentanyl use weakens the respiratory system, making even minor infections potentially life-threatening.
- Mental health issues – Anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts often accompany opioid addiction, worsening over time.
The good news is that with the right treatment approach, people can regain control of their lives and achieve lasting recovery.
How Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Can Help
Overcoming fentanyl addiction takes more than just willpower—it requires a comprehensive approach that tackles both physical dependence and emotional triggers.
The Right Step offers a complete continuum of care designed to guide individuals through recovery with confidence. Treatment begins with medical detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms under professional supervision. From there, clients can transition to inpatient or outpatient rehab, with care tailored to their specific needs. For those facing co-occurring mental health challenges like depression or anxiety, dual diagnosis treatment is available to address both conditions simultaneously. Therapeutic support, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, and mindfulness practices, helps promote long-term healing. To sustain progress, aftercare programs provide ongoing support through alumni groups and relapse prevention planning.
This holistic approach empowers clients to rebuild their lives free from addiction. The Right Step has been providing exceptional substance abuse treatment across multiple levels of care since 1990. Our approach fosters lasting lifestyle changes for you and your family, empowering you to not only navigate recovery but truly thrive in it.
Take the Right Step Toward Recovery With Our Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Program in Texas
If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl use, don’t wait until it’s too late. The Right Step offers affordable treatment options in Texas, providing high-quality care in a supportive environment. Call 17135283709 or contact our team online today to learn more about our fentanyl addiction treatment program and take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life.
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