Rehab Investigates Signs of Fentanyl Addiction

New Port Richey, FL – Clean Recovery Centers' latest blog investigates signs of fentanyl addiction. With the substance surrounding many conversations about overdoses, Clean Recovery aims to arm the public with knowledge and support about fentanyl use and how to help loved ones.

“Fentanyl can cause changes in behaviors that are not considered normal for the person using it. The drowsiness associated with fentanyl use can cause nodding, where the person drifts in and out of consciousness. They may not remember doing, saying, or being in certain situations. This can lead to risky behaviors such as driving while impaired, having unprotected sex, and using multiple substances at the same time,” the blog states.

Over the years, fentanyl use has been on the rise. This is not always intentional, as fentanyl is used to cut other substances due to its potency and cost-effectiveness. Fentanyl is one of the strongest, synthetic opioids and can cause different side effects on the body and mind. Some signs of fentanyl use include drowsiness, itchiness, dry mouth, euphoria, gastrointestinal problems, depression, and anxiety. Over time, fentanyl can cause more severe side effects and lead to dependence. Fentanyl works in the body by attaching to opioid receptors. As these receptors learn to expect fentanyl, adverse effects can occur when it is not present.

Using substances such as fentanyl can wreak havoc on the mind and psychological being. While the initial effects of fentanyl may seem relaxing, anxiety, depression, irritability, and mood swings can increase between uses. When friends and family do not support fentanyl use, the person may lash out and cut ties with them. Fentanyl becomes the main focus, and work or school performance also takes a back seat to use. Hobbies that were once enjoyed no longer are a focus as fentanyl takes over the person’s life.

“Drug-seeking behaviors can be a tough area for loved ones to address. Fentanyl changes the way the brain functions, and initiates cravings when it is not in the system. These cravings can cause behavioral changes as the body signals a need for fentanyl. One of the most common fentanyl-seeking behaviors is stealing. Purchasing fentanyl has a cost, and money or objects of value can be used. The person using it is not thinking about their loved ones or the harm they may cause by taking money or valuables. All that matters at the moment is getting their next dose of fentanyl. Other common forms of drug-seeking behaviors related to fentanyl use include seeing doctors to get prescriptions to trade for fentanyl, manipulating situations so their use is not the problem, having different names and phones used to get fentanyl, leaving work or school to use fentanyl, and withdrawing from family and friends to keep using fentanyl,” the blog continues.

Not everyone who takes fentanyl will develop a disorder. However, the more often fentanyl is used, the more likely dependence is going to develop. Dependence is the main cause of a fentanyl use disorder, as the brain physically needs the substance to function the longer and more frequently it is used. There are also risk factors for developing a fentanyl use disorder. One risk factor is if a family member or friend uses fentanyl around the person. Another is growing up in a chaotic environment or living in poverty. While having risk factors does not guarantee a fentanyl use disorder will develop, it is important to take precautions for those who choose to use it.

Clean Recovery Centers has locations throughout the Suncoast, and their dedicated team is ready to help those living with a substance use disorder. They utilize a unique, three-phase approach that addresses all facets of addiction. With housing certified by the Florida Association of Recovery Residences, the worry of a place to stay is never an issue.

To learn more about Clean Recovery Centers, call (888) 330-2532 or visit their website.