Fentanyl is one of the most potent opioids in the world. It is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. Because of fentanyl side effects and overdose risks, fentanyl is a schedule II drug. While it might be available legally with a prescription, this drug is extremely addictive and is also a common street drug.
What Are the Fentanyl Side Effects?
When someone takes fentanyl, it immediately binds to opioid receptors in the brain. This can affect the individual’s emotions and perception of pain. Over time, the mind starts to adapt to the drug. This means that someone has to take more fentanyl to reach the same effects. A drug addiction treatment program can help clients begin their long-term recovery.
In the short term, fentanyl side effects include things like sedation, extreme happiness, and constipation. Individuals may experience confusion, drowsiness, and nausea. In serious cases, someone may also develop breathing problems or lose consciousness.
When someone uses fentanyl, they may go through other side effects like dry mouth, constricted pupils, and sweating. The drug may lower their heart rate or lead to stiff muscles. If someone has an adverse reaction to fentanyl patches, they may suffer from itching, redness, swelling or a rash at the patch’s location.
Unfortunately, it is entirely possible to overdose on fentanyl after trying it just once. This type of overdose can cause someone to stop breathing and can make their heart stop. Less oxygen goes to the brain, which can cause permanent brain damage, coma, and death. If someone has an overdose, they need medical care right away to prevent complications.
Withdrawal Side Effects From Fentanyl
Withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl generally begin around 12 to 30 hours after someone takes their last dose. The effects typically become worse during the first 12 to 24 hours. These symptoms usually last for about 72 hours before tapering off.
During the drug withdrawal process, individuals may go through symptoms like joint pain, chills, sweating, backaches, and restlessness. They may develop uncomfortable side effects like stomach cramps, muscle weakness, increased respiration, diarrhea, or vomiting. Because going through withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous alone, it is vital that people seek professional treatment if they want to stop using fentanyl.
Going Through an Addiction Treatment Program
Once someone realizes that they are suffering from fentanyl side effects and need help, there are options available. These kinds of programs include individual, group, and family therapy to help clients develop a sober lifestyle.
In a treatment program, clients can find options such as:
- Eco-therapy
- Gardening
- A hybrid program of clinical care and adventure therapy
- Gender-specific options
- Dual diagnosis care
- Trauma-informed treatment
Dealing with an addiction is never easy, but the right treatment program can help clients overcome fentanyl side effects. Through Red Oak Recovery®, individuals can get an in-depth evaluation to figure out the best treatments for their needs. Then, they can begin their recovery journey. Learn more about how Red Oak Recovery® can help by calling us today at 866.457.7590.
