Fentanyl Addiction Treatment | Fentanyl Side Effects | Ophelia

What to know about fentanyl addiction + treatment with Ophelia

Fentanyl has gained a lot of attention in recent years in light of rising rates of drug overdoses and addiction. Unfortunately, there’s plenty of misinformation out there that can make it challenging to understand the realities of fentanyl use. Developing a deeper understanding of what fentanyl addiction can look like and what treatment options are available will go a long way toward addressing the fentanyl crisis.

This comprehensive guide will provide answers to common questions about fentanyl, from what the drug is exactly to how prevalent fentanyl is in the drug supply.

1. Frequently asked questions about fentanyl addiction treatment

What is fentanyl?

Despite the prevalence of fentanyl in the news, many people still don’t know exactly what fentanyl is. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for anesthesia and pain management. Prescription fentanyl treatment is available in several forms, including:

Fentanyl was initially synthesized in 1960 by a Belgian chemist and became available as an intravenous anesthetic in the same decade. Today, doctors may prescribe fentanyl to help patients manage severe pain after surgery or chronic pain, especially if they have a physical tolerance to other opioids.

Side Effects of Fentanyl

As a synthetic opioid, fentanyl binds to the opioid receptors in the brain. The opioid receptors are in the parts of the brain that control emotions and pain. Some side effects include:

Risk of Overdose

Fentanyl can take effect very quickly. However, taking too large a dose risks overdose or death. The dosage of fentanyl that will cause death varies significantly. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), 2 mg of fentanyl or more is a lethal dose.

What does fentanyl look like?

Fentanyl is available in various forms, including pills, powders, and liquids. The pills may be designed to look like prescription medications. On its own, fentanyl powder is generally white and sometimes packaged as small blocks. It can also be mixed with illicit drugs without apparent identification.

Why are drugs laced with fentanyl?

Many overdose deaths result from other drugs laced with fentanyl. Drug dealers add fentanyl to increase potency, making it easier to traffic smaller amounts for higher profit.

The danger of fentanyl in street drugs

The presence of fentanyl in the street drug supply poses significant risks to anyone using illicit drugs. Two milligrams of fentanyl can cause a fatal overdose.

Is the fentanyl crisis worsening?

The increased presence of fentanyl in the drug supply has contributed to a new wave of fatal overdoses. In 2022, over 100,000 people lost their lives to overdoses.

2. Common misconceptions about medication-assisted treatment

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is not prescribed on its own. It should be combined with behavioral therapy. Many believe using medication in treatment is just trading one addiction for another, which is false. MAT programs are supported by the CDC for their efficacy.

3. Undergoing fentanyl addiction treatment

Managing side effects at home

Patients may experience withdrawal symptoms during detox. Common withdrawal symptoms include:

Taking Suboxone

Patients need to be in mild withdrawal before taking Suboxone. Over time, the dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual response.

What to expect when taking Suboxone

Suboxone can help dull withdrawal symptoms and cravings, aiding patients in their recovery process. Common side effects may include:

What to do if you miss a Suboxone dose

If a patient forgets their dose within 12 hours, they can take Suboxone then. However, they should skip the missed dose if it's close to the next one.

4. The importance of urinalysis during OUD treatment

A urine analysis (UA) is vital for detecting the presence of drugs during treatment and ensuring compliance with medication protocols.

5. The benefits of long-term Suboxone use

Research indicates that buprenorphine, the active component in Suboxone, may help treat depression and improve quality of life in addition to aiding in addiction treatment.

6. Fentanyl treatment with Ophelia

Ophelia focuses on telehealth for providing accessible treatment options. Telehealth helps expand access for patients in vulnerable communities.

7. Real stories: Ophelia success stories

"I'm alive today thanks to Ophelia for putting me on Suboxone. It's giving me a clean, healthy way of living life. Thank you."

8. What to do when someone needs immediate assistance

What to know about fentanyl overdose

Understanding the signs of an overdose is crucial. Look for:

Persistent awareness and carrying naloxone can save lives during an overdose situation.