Fentanyl, a potent and addictive synthetic opioid, is responsible for increasing drug overdose deaths nationwide. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “The fentanyl category of opioids accounted for 67,325 preventable deaths in 2021, representing a 26% increase over the 53,480 total in 2020.”
At Detox Nashville, we understand the importance of accessible and effective fentanyl detox in Nashville, TN. We have developed an individualized program for fentanyl addiction recovery, beginning with fentanyl detoxification undergone in a designated medical facility.
We combine professional medical care with therapeutic intervention. Therefore, our recovery program and medically monitored detox focus on more than safe and pain-free fentanyl withdrawal. We prepare our clients for long-term sobriety by focusing on comprehensive healing and aftercare.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a type of synthetic opioid intended for pain management and prescribed to treat severe pain generally associated with terminal conditions. Fentanyl is particularly potent, between 50 to 100 times stronger than other prescription painkillers, like morphine. This drug is commonly used to cut other substances (predominantly heroin) due to its highly addictive and potent nature.
Fentanyl can be used in several different ways. When prescribed by a licensed medical professional, the drug is administered intravenously as a shot or given as lozenges or patches placed directly on the skin. The fentanyl most commonly associated with overdose deaths is made illegally in a lab.
Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors within the brain. Opioid receptors are found in the part of the brain that regulates functions like pleasure and pain. After taking fentanyl repeatedly, a person will develop a physical tolerance. Their body will become accustomed to the presence of the drug, and the central nervous system goes into shock when fentanyl use is suddenly stopped.
Our fentanyl detox in Nashville helps clients manage the shock when they stop using fentanyl.
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Detox Nashville is a premier leader in the provision of addiction treatment services. If you or someone you love is in need of professional care to address a substance use disorder, reach out to us right now at (615) 845-4747 to speak with an admissions specialist who can get you started on the road to recovery.
Fentanyl Addiction Signs & Symptoms
Because fentanyl is highly addictive, a fentanyl use disorder can develop quickly. If a person develops a physical and psychological dependence on fentanyl, they will have difficulty quitting without professional help.
The most common signs and symptoms associated with fentanyl addiction are:
- Continuing fentanyl use despite adverse emotional and physical effects
- Spending a significant amount of time using or recovering from the drug
- Taking fentanyl for longer than prescribed
- Financial issues directly linked to fentanyl use
- Inability to quit fentanyl despite numerous attempts
- Changes in sleeping patterns and eating habits
- Struggling to maintain school or work responsibilities
- Social withdrawal and an increased need for privacy
- Engaging in risky behavior (for example, driving under the influence of fentanyl)
- Confusion, nervousness, and agitation
- Fatigue, dizziness, and headache
- Intense and overwhelming drug cravings
- Psychological distress
- Withdrawal symptoms that develop in the absence of the drug
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
When a person stops using fentanyl suddenly, withdrawal symptoms develop. Symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal are physical and psychological. The most common symptoms associated with fentanyl withdrawal include:
- Insomnia
- Chills and excessive perspiration
- Irregular breathing
- Increased blood pressure and elevated heart rate
- Cold-like symptoms (runny nose, watery eyes, nasal congestion)
- General fatigue and weakness
- Sore joints and muscles
- Excessive yawning
- Upset stomach (nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramping)
- Wide pupils
- Feelings of anxiety and depression
- Uncharacteristic irritability and agitation
- Hypertension
What to Expect During Fentanyl Detox in Nashville
The experience a person has in our fentanyl detox depends on several factors. These factors include:
- The length of time the person has been misusing fentanyl.
- The presence of any underlying or co-occurring issues.
- Whether or not the person has been combining fentanyl with any other chemical substances.
- The amount of fentanyl the person has been taking on a daily basis.
- Whether or not the person is transitioning from detox into a higher level of care.
Most of our clients undergo withdrawal in our fentanyl detox in Nashville for between 3 and 7 days, depending on the severity of associated symptoms. While a client is working towards physical stabilization, our clinical team develops a personalized aftercare plan. In many cases, aftercare involves transitioning into a higher level of care, like residential rehab or partial hospitalization. We work closely with many reputable treatment centers in the Nashville area.
How Long Does It Take to Detox From Fentanyl?
Fentanyl withdrawal typically begins 12 to 24 hours after a person’s previous dose. These symptoms commonly peak within 48 hours. They can subside as soon as 72 hours after the individual’s last use of fentanyl. These time estimates are only a guideline as a person’s exact withdrawal timeline depends on several factors such as the severity of their addiction as well as their age, weight, and overall health.
Generally, withdrawal follows the below pattern:
Anticipatory
The first in the withdrawal process, the anticipatory stage is associated with intense cravings and drug-seeking behavior. Individuals often feel nervous or fearful in this stage as they prepare for their symptoms to worsen.
Early Acute
The second stage constitutes the start of physical withdrawal symptoms. Early acute symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, aches, chills, and increased sweating.
Fully-Developed Acute
Symptoms typically peak in the third stage of withdrawal. Individuals experience heightened cravings and potentially dangerous side effects such as rapid breathing, elevated blood pressure, and increased heart rate during this time.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
Participating in a proper detox program in which individuals receive MAT and do not quit cold turkey reduces the chance of developing PAWS. This is essential in relapse prevention as those experiencing PAWS are very susceptible to triggers and continue to experience cravings. PAWS symptoms can last for weeks to months after the initial withdrawal process and include feelings of sadness and depression, insomnia, and anxiety.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Fentanyl Detox in Nashville
Medications often provided through our medication-assisted treatment services include:
- Methadone: This opioid agonist makes the brain think someone is using the drug without getting them high.
- Buprenorphine: This medication works similarly to methadone as it is a partial opioid agonist.
- Clonidine: This medication helps reduce the physical symptoms of withdrawal.
- Antidepressants: These can aid the mental health symptoms individuals might experience during fentanyl withdrawal.
- Naltrexone: This relapse-prevention drug keeps users from getting high when attempting to misuse opioids.
It is important to note that detox is only the first step in recovery. Detox Nashville refers clients to a reputable addiction treatment program in the area so they can continue their journey to a happy, sober future.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Options
The best treatment options for methadone addiction treatment vary on a person-to-person basis. However, entering a medical detox program is a recommended first step toward recovery. We offer effective detox from fentanyl in Nashville at our state-of-the-art treatment center.
Begin Your Healing Journey at Our Nashville Fentanyl Detox
Our fentanyl detox in Nashville, Tennessee, is available to those needing professional detoxification services. We understand how difficult it can be to reach out for help. Making the decision to seek professional treatment for a fentanyl use disorder is certainly not easy. Fortunately, admitting that help has become necessary is the most challenging part of the process.
We are available to walk you through each step of the early recovery process, from the initial call through admission. As soon as you make the decision to contact us, you will be connected with someone you can trust. We answer any additional questions you might have and help you prepare for the road ahead. We look forward to speaking with you and helping you begin your journey of fentanyl addiction recovery today.
