Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid similar to but more potent than morphine. It was initially developed as an anesthetic for medical use. However, because of its high potency and potential for addiction, it is classified as a Schedule II drug in the United States. Fentanyl addiction can develop quickly and be challenging to overcome without professional help. It can also be challenging to spot the signs of fentanyl addiction because it is often used in combination with other drugs.
If you believe that you or someone you care about is struggling with fentanyl addiction, contact Springfield Wellness Center today. We offer a fentanyl detox program in Springfield, LA, as well as other addiction treatment programs. Call 844.334.4727 to speak with someone from our knowledgeable staff about fentanyl addiction signs and how we can help you or your loved one start on the path to recovery.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine. Doctors typically prescribe it to treat patients with severe pain who have built up a tolerance to other opioids. Fentanyl can also be prescribed for patients struggling with severe pain—such as postoperative pain or cancer pain—or withdrawal from other opioids. However, it is also often misused by people seeking a more potent high from opioids.
People who abuse fentanyl usually start by taking it to get high or for a medical purpose. However, over time they may develop tolerance to the drug’s effects and need to take larger and larger doses to get the same effect. They may also feel unable to function without the drug and start taking it more frequently. These are all signs of opioid addiction.
Fentanyl is different from other opioids in a few key ways. First, as mentioned above, it is much more potent than other opioids. This means it can lead to a more vigorous and rapid onset of intoxication. Additionally, because it is so potent, fentanyl poses a greater risk of overdose and death than other opioids. Finally, because it is manufactured in clandestine laboratories, fentanyl may be cut with other substances—increasing the risks of polysubstance abuse, overdose, and death.
4 Signs of Fentanyl Addiction
There are four main signs of fentanyl addiction.
1. Taking Larger or More Frequent Doses of Fentanyl Than Intended
The first sign of fentanyl addiction is when someone takes the drug more often or in larger doses than they intended. They may start taking it to get high or to relieve pain, but soon they find themselves needing it more and more. This could be because they have developed tolerance to the drug’s effects and need to take larger doses to feel the same effects. Or, they may feel like they can’t function without the drug and start taking it more frequently.
2. Struggling to Cut Down or Quit Taking Fentanyl
Another sign of fentanyl addiction is when someone tries to cut down or quit taking the drug but finds it difficult or impossible to do so. They may have made multiple attempts to quit but have been unsuccessful. Or, they may have managed to stop taking fentanyl for some time but eventually relapsed.
3. Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms When Not Taking Fentanyl
Withdrawal symptoms are another sign of addiction. When someone is addicted to fentanyl, they will experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop taking it. These symptoms may include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweats
Withdrawal from fentanyl can be difficult and uncomfortable.
4. Neglecting Obligations in Favor of Taking Fentanyl
The final sign of fentanyl addiction is when someone starts to neglect their obligations in favor of taking the drug. For example, they may miss work or school, skip social engagements, or neglect their family and friends. They may also start engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving while under the influence of fentanyl.
Find Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in Louisiana at Springfield Wellness Center
If you think you or someone you care about may be struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Many resources are available to those struggling with substance use disorders, and treatment can make all the difference in overcoming addiction and achieving long-term sobriety. Contact Springfield Wellness Center today at 844.334.4727 to learn more about fentanyl addiction signs and how we can help you or your loved one on the road to recovery.