Fentanyl is a highly powerful pain medication – up to 100 times more powerful than morphine. While fentanyl can be prescribed by physicians to help patients manage chronic pain, over the past few years, there has been a spike in illegally manufactured fentanyl. Often it is mixed with other illicit drugs such as heroin or cocaine. When fentanyl is misused, even in the smallest of doses, it can be highly dangerous. According to the CDC, fentanyl is now responsible for more than half of all opioid overdoses in the United States.

When someone is struggling with a fentanyl addiction, they may experience:

• Tightness in their chest
• Rapid heartbeat
• Lack of coordination
• Hallucinations
• Muscle pain
• Drastic changes in their mood
• Singular focus on trying to stay high
• Loss of interest in work, relationships and family obligations

The biggest concern with long-term use of fentanyl and other opiates/synthetic opiates is building up a tolerance to the drug. This results in individuals taking more of the drug to feel the same effects, which significantly increases the chance of an overdose. Besides the risk of death, using fentanyl can result in depression, loss of strength and muscle pain.

Fentanyl is addictive but it is possible to break the cycle. The team at Jackson House is here to offer support, so you do not have to start this journey on your own. Our fentanyl addiction program is customized to meet your needs. Our team will be by your side as you detox and then give you tools to support your sobriety. Our recovery program utilizes group and individual therapy, whole, fresh foods to help replenish depleted nutrients and medication management (if needed). Our team is also here to provide you with ongoing support to help set you up for success.

WONDERING IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE HAS A PROBLEM WITH FENTANYL? TAKE OUR SHORT SELF-ASSESSMENT.