Fentanyl kills. It’s the deadliest drug in US history. From locals in your own community, to major hip-hop artists such as Mac Miller, it does not discriminate whose life it takes.
In Los Angeles, a city renowned for its glamour and endless possibilities, a hidden crisis is unfolding: the rapid rise of fentanyl addiction. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid many times more potent than morphine, has seen a disturbing surge in misuse and overdose deaths.
From 2016 to 2021, fentanyl overdose deaths in Los Angeles County increased by a staggering 1,280%. The numbers are alarming, with deaths jumping from 462 in 2019 to 1,504 in 2021. This escalating crisis underscores the urgent need for specialized treatment and intervention.
We understand the danger of fentanyl addiction at The Encino Recovery & Detox Center. Our trained medical professionals and licensed therapists offer monitored medical detox and a residential recovery program with dual diagnosis therapy to aid in overcoming fentanyl abuse
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It’s a prescription drug that is typically used to treat patients with severe pain, especially after surgery, or to manage pain in patients who are physically tolerant to other opioids.
However, in recent years, there has been a surge in the availability and misuse of illicitly manufactured fentanyl. This illicit version is often mixed with heroin or cocaine, amplifying its potency and the risk of overdose.
The danger lies in its strength and the fact that many users are unaware that they are consuming fentanyl, leading to a significant increase in overdose deaths. Illicit fentanyl, often produced in clandestine labs, is responsible for a growing number of fatalities, especially when users are unaware of its presence in a drug mixture.
Fentanyl addiction stands out from other opioid addictions due to its extreme potency and the rapidity with which it can lead to respiratory depression and fatal overdose. While all opioids carry a risk of addiction and overdose, fentanyl’s strength means that even a small amount can be deadly.
Many users don’t know they are consuming fentanyl, leading to a high increase in overdose deaths. Some signs of fentanyl abuse include.
Fentanyl addiction, like other opioid addictions, manifests through a range of physical, behavioral, and psychological indicators. Physically, individuals addicted to fentanyl may exhibit pinpoint pupils, excessive drowsiness, confusion, and respiratory depression. They might also experience bouts of nausea, constipation, and sedation, which are common side effects of opioid use.
Over time, as the addiction intensifies, there may be noticeable weight loss, frequent flu-like symptoms (which can be indicative of withdrawal), and a decline in personal hygiene.
Behaviorally, those struggling with fentanyl addiction might become increasingly secretive, isolating themselves from friends and family.
There’s often a preoccupation with obtaining and using the drug, leading to neglect of personal and professional responsibilities. They might also exhibit changes in social circles, associating more with others who use or deal drugs, and there could be evidence of drug paraphernalia such as syringes, patches, or unknown pills.
Psychologically, fentanyl addiction can lead to mood swings, depression, and heightened anxiety, especially if the drug is unavailable. There’s often a noticeable shift in motivation, with a decreased interest in activities once enjoyed. Over time, the individual may develop a psychological reliance on the drug, believing they need it to function or cope with daily stresses.
The dangers associated with fentanyl cannot be overstated. Given its potency, the risk of overdose is exceptionally high. Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include slowed or stopped breathing, blue-tinted lips and nails, cold and clammy skin, and unconsciousness.
Due to fentanyl’s strength, overdoses can be rapid and fatal. The fatality rate for fentanyl overdoses is alarmingly high, especially when compared to other opioids. Immediate medical intervention is crucial in the event of a suspected overdose, as timely administration of reversal agents like naloxone can be life-saving.
Fentanyl, like other opioids, primarily affects the brain’s opioid receptors. These receptors are scattered throughout the brain and body and play a crucial role in pain perception and reward.
When fentanyl binds to these receptors, especially the mu-opioid receptors in the brain, it blocks pain signals and releases a surge of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and euphoria. This release leads to the characteristic feelings of relaxation and well-being that opioids are known for.
However, fentanyl’s potency sets it apart from other opioids. Its molecular structure allows it to rapidly cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to an almost immediate onset of effects. This swift action, combined with its potency, means that even small amounts of the drug can lead to profound respiratory depression, a common cause of death in opioid overdoses.
The rapidity with which fentanyl acts makes its addictive potential exceptionally high. Users can quickly develop a tolerance, requiring more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This escalating use heightens the risk of overdose and deepens the cycle of addiction.
Moreover, the brain begins to rely on fentanyl to release dopamine over time, diminishing its natural ability to do so without the drug. This dependence can lead to significant mood disturbances when the drug is not available, driving the individual to seek out and use fentanyl compulsively.
The combination of the brain’s altered chemistry and the drug’s potent effects creates a powerful pull, making fentanyl addiction particularly challenging to overcome.
The Encino understands the severity of fentanyl addiction. Our facility is a safe environment for detoxing and our on-going programs to support the recovery journey.
Our team of compassionate medical professionals and licensed therapists will help you or a loved one through the entire process. The Encino provides comprehensive care for individuals with fentanyl addiction at each step of the recovery journey.
Detox is the first stage of treatment for fentanyl addiction. It includes the supervised process of eliminating the drug from the body.. Fentanyl withdrawal can look different for all users, but common symptoms typically include:
Following detox, users enter our residential treatment program. Our team provides a variety of treatments and teaches healthy strategies to avoid using in the first place.
Our residential treatment program uses the following treatment approaches:
Fentanyl use can worsen symptoms of present mental health conditions. Our treatment approach at The Encino is guided by an integrated dual diagnosis philosophy, treating both the addiction and any co-occurring mental health disorders.
This may include a combination of medication management, therapeutic approaches, and psychoeducation to address specific needs of each individual.
Many fentanyl addicts do not get lucky enough to make it to treatment. Taking the first step is how to get your freedom back from a life free of addiction. At Encino, we greet your first step with kindness, understanding, and an open-minded approach focused on your healing.
Houseman, P. 2023. To the Point: The Fentanyl Crisis, Why Now, Why So Deadly?. American University.
The seclusion, outdoor spaces, therapy space and privacy truly give this treatment center a spa-like appeal with private bedrooms for all.
The Encino Recovery and Detox Center is an amazing treatment center which leaves little to nothing to be desired.
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