Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, approximately 80-100 times stronger than morphine. It’s prescribed for severe pain management, particularly after surgery, and is available as an oral tablet or transdermal patch. Unfortunately, fentanyl is also illegally manufactured and distributed, often by criminal organizations. Much of the illicit fentanyl in the U.S. originates from China and Mexico. Its potency significantly increases the risk of overdose, especially when mixed with or substituted for heroin. Many individuals seeking heroin unknowingly encounter a much stronger and more dangerous dose of fentanyl.
The intense euphoric effects and short duration of fentanyl use can lead individuals to consume larger quantities more frequently. This continuous use can profoundly impact an individual’s life. At Inspiration Health, our dedicated team is here to assist clients dealing with fentanyl use disorder.
FENTANYL WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS
Withdrawal symptoms can vary, but commonly include:
- Within the first 12 hours:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Muscle Aches
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Excessive Sweating
- Within 12 – 96 hours:
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High Blood Pressure
- Blurry Vision
- Abdominal Pain
- Rapid Heartbeat
Medication Assisted Treatment for Fentanyl Use Disorder
Initially, clients experiencing withdrawal from fentanyl may be prescribed Lucemyra (lofexidine) to alleviate withdrawal symptoms. Lucemyra, a non-opioid medication, helps manage early withdrawal symptoms by reducing the release of norepinephrine. After the first few days on Lucemyra, when withdrawal symptoms start to stabilize, we transition clients to Suboxone (Buprenorphine/Naloxone) for long-term Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Suboxone is effective in maintaining recovery by managing cravings and preventing relapse.
Our team of qualified buprenorphine-waivered doctors can also prescribe additional medications to ease specific symptoms.
Counseling and Care Coordination
Counseling is a critical component of recovery alongside Medication-Assisted Treatment. Our licensed counselors offer individual, group, and family therapy sessions, utilizing techniques such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These sessions address grief, family dynamics, anger management, and other factors impacting recovery. Clients are also equipped with coping skills and strategies to identify and avoid triggers.
For those needing treatment, we offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments. We strive to provide same-day appointments to ensure timely care. At Inspiration Health, our specialists are trained to handle fentanyl use disorder with a compassionate, comprehensive approach.
