Knowing how to detox from fentanyl safely is vital to ensuring comfort and safety during the process. There are different methods when detoxing from this drug, and a common self-detox method is going “cold turkey”. This method is not recommended and can be dangerous in the long run. The more effective methods for fentanyl detox are tapering methods, especially when done under the medical supervision of addiction professionals.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms
Fentanyl detox is an extremely uncomfortable process that can be extremely difficult if not done properly. Knowing the signs and symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can help individuals understand how to detox from fentanyl safely. Withdrawal is different for everyone, as everyone heals differently. However, there are particular symptoms someone can look out for that could be indicative of withdrawal from this substance.
These symptoms include:
- Muscle aches and cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Muscle spasms
- Disturbed sleep
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
- Blood pressure changes
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Professionals should monitor these symptoms due to the potential risks of the symptoms themselves. Symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration which can lead to damage within the body. Having professional care during this time is crucial to preventing complications.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
When someone is ready to begin treatment, they may ask about medication-assisted treatment (MA). MAT is a form of fentanyl addiction treatment that can aid in someone achieving long-term abstinence from the substance. It uses medications in conjunction with proven therapy methods to help someone overcome addiction to fentanyl.
There are several medications used in MAT which are all approved by the FDA, according to SAMHSA. These medications help to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, as well as control cravings for the substance, making the recovery process easier for the individual to maintain.
Tapering Method for Fentanyl
How to detox from fentanyl safely includes the tapering method. This type of withdrawal allows the individual to gradually remove the substance from their system by decreasing an opioid dosage, which alleviates symptoms of withdrawal. Fentanyl detox can be extremely uncomfortable, and gradually decreasing the dosage allows the individual to go through the withdrawal process with more comfort and less risk. As a form of MAT, the tapering method provides a safer alternative to the commonly used cold turkey method.
Types of Tapering Methods
When it comes to tapering off of opioids, different tapering methods are used. Understanding fentanyl detox using these methods, under the supervision of medical professionals, is beneficial for those who struggle. The first type of taper is a direct taper.
This method has different options, including slowest, slow, fast, and fastest taper. The slowest taper involves decreasing the dosage of the opioid every month or two. A slow taper involves decreasing at a higher rate monthly. Fast taper is when the dosage is decreased weekly, and the fastest is when the dosage is decreased daily.
Another form of tapering is substitution tapering, which entails using MAT medications approved and used for fentanyl. These medications include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. The last type of tapering method is the titration taper in which medication is dissolved into water to reduce the dosage. This last taper should only be performed under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
Fentanyl Abuse Treatment
Fentanyl abuse treatment can help those who find themselves struggling to learn how to live a normal, productive life without this substance hindering them. Undergoing detox is the first step. Professional medical detox is how to detox from fentanyl safely. From there, an individual can receive much-needed addiction help. This can include therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma therapy.
IOP and PHP
When it comes to substance abuse treatment, including fentanyl, there are different levels of care someone could participate in. After a detox regimen is completed, there are outpatient programs. These include partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs). PHP and IOP provide support and help those who are struggling to gain the necessary knowledge and life skills that help them achieve long-term recovery.
Therapies for Fentanyl
There are effective therapies for fentanyl abuse recovery to help with learning new ways of coping with life stressors and maintaining recovery. Therapies that are commonly used for fentanyl recovery include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and trauma therapy. These therapies serve different purposes and are proven successful for long-term recovery.
CBT helps to change unhelpful and maladaptive behaviors, while DBT helps to allow an individual to feel their feelings, as intense as they are, and be able to cope without using substances. The purpose of trauma therapy is to work through the traumatic events that may play a role in substance use. These therapies are beneficial for understanding treatment options and maintaining long-term abstinence.
Recovery is Possible
Fentanyl is a substance that is affecting communities all across the country. It is impacting the lives of individual as well as their loved ones, and overcoming this drug can seem impossible for some. Recovery from fentanyl abuse and addiction is possible. If you or a loved one are struggling with fentanyl, there is hope. At Empowered Recovery Center we offer a personalized care plan to aid those who have found themselves struggling to find recovery.
Call us today to discuss options for how to detox from fentanyl with Empowered Recovery.
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