Fentanyl addiction is a pressing concern, particularly among young adults and teenagers, posing severe health and social risks. As a potent synthetic opioid, Fentanyl’s allure lies in its intense euphoria, leading to its popularity among this vulnerable demographic. This guide explores Fentanyl addiction, explaining its effects, risks, and how it affects young people.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid pain reliever that is commonly used to manage and treat severe pain, especially in medical settings. It is much stronger than heroin and morphine. In fact, it is up to 50 times stronger than heroin, and 100 times stronger than morphine.
People can find illegally made fentanyl (IMF) in various forms on the drug market, such as liquid and powder. It is often mixed with substances like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Fentanyl-laced drugs are highly hazardous, and many users might not realize that their drugs contain fentanyl.
More and more young people are becoming victims of the dangerous drug Fentanyl, which is a public health concern. In fact, fentanyl was identified to be the cause of 77.14% of drug overdose deaths in teenagers in 2021.
Social media also plays a big role in fentanyl abuse as teens and young adults can easily buy illicit drugs online, which has been a concern for parents.
Fentanyl’s addictive nature lies in its powerful impact on the brain’s reward system. When ingested, fentanyl quickly binds to opioid receptors in the brain, triggering a surge of dopamine.
This flood of dopamine creates intense feelings of euphoria and relaxation, making the drug highly rewarding to the user. With repeated use, the brain adapts to the presence of fentanyl, leading to tolerance and opioid overdose.
Identifying the lethal dose of fentanyl is difficult due to various factors including body size, tolerance, and past use. However, the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) defines a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl as 2 milligrams.
The risk of overdose can be life threatening due to respiratory depression and central nervous system suppression. Common symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include:
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction is crucial in identifying the problem early and providing timely intervention and support. Fentanyl addiction, like other substance use disorders, can impact one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Individuals addicted to Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids may also exhibit behavioral changes that may lead to isolation, neglecting responsibilities and lack of interest or social interaction.
Generally, a fentanyl high can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, several factors such as tolerance and dosage can affect this duration.
The severity and duration of Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the dosage, duration of use, and overall health. Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be intense and may include:
Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within the first 12 to 30 hours after the last fentanyl dose. Early symptoms may include anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches, and yawning.
Withdrawal symptoms peak around the third to the fifth day. These symptoms may be at their most severe during this period.
The intensity of withdrawal symptoms begins to subside, but some physical discomfort and emotional instability may persist.
While most physical symptoms improve, individuals may continue to experience mood swings, sleep disturbances, and cravings for fentanyl. Psychological symptoms can persist for weeks or months, requiring ongoing support and treatment.
Fentanyl addiction treatment typically involves a combination of approaches tailored to each one’s unique needs and circumstances. Some of the common treatment and recovery options for fentanyl addiction include:
The duration of fentanyl detox depends on a number of factors, including the individual’s tolerance, the length of time they have been using fentanyl, and the severity of their addiction. However, in general, fentanyl detox can last anywhere from 4 to 20 days.
The cost of treating fentanyl addiction can vary greatly depending on some factors. Inpatient rehabilitation programs generally cost more than outpatient treatment options due to the 24/7 care and amenities provided.
Many treatment facilities accept insurance, which can help offset some of the costs. Some government and non-profit groups provide affordable or free treatment.
Aftercare may include ongoing counseling, participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and regular check-ins with a treatment professional.
During the recovery journey, professionals teach individuals coping strategies to address triggers and cravings. These strategies may include mindfulness techniques, stress management, and healthy lifestyle changes to achieve long-term sobriety.
Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, HART is here to help. We understand that young adults and teenagers may require targeted, age-appropriate treatment to achieve successful outcomes.
At HART, we are committed to helping young adults like you find hope, healing, and a brighter future. Together, we can overcome fentanyl addiction and embark on a journey of recovery that leads to a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and resilience.
Contact HART today and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from fentanyl addiction. You deserve a future filled with possibilities, and we’re here to help you make that a reality.
