Opiate Detoxification
Know More About Opiates and Fentanyl
The opioid epidemic has become a major problem in the United States and many other parts of the world. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) reported that in a 12-month period ending on January 1, 2022, the United States had 107,375 overdose deaths.
A shocking 67% of those deaths were directly related to opiates and synthetic opiates (primarily fentanyl).
Signs and Effects of Opiate Abuse
With the number of opiate overdose deaths ravaging the country we call home, LA Valley Recovery believes it is important for those suffering from addiction along with their loved ones to be able to identify signs of abuse and withdrawal from opiates. It is common for users to be in denial about the level of powerlessness that comes with addiction. Being able to identify signs that point to withdrawal from abuse of opiates can help identify the depth of the issue at hand.
Families often ask the question, “How did I not see this coming?”. The truth is, addicts will adapt to hectic lifestyles and manipulate others to hide things better than you could ever imagine. Having knowledge of the early signs of abuse and withdrawal from opiates can be a tool to help identify these things earlier.
Signs Of Opiate Abuse and Withdrawal
There are two stages of signs that are common amongst those who are abusing opiates. There are early signs that can be overlooked if you do not know what you’re looking at. Some early signs and symptoms are:
● Slurred Speech
● Agitation
● Muscle Aches
● Runny Nose
● Insomnia
● Restlessness
● Consistent Yawning
● Excessive Sweating
Those suffering from opiate abuse can go into withdrawal within 12 hours of their last use. This typically happens when opiates have been abused for enough time to create a chemical dependency. At this point, there will be
some later signs and symptoms such as:
● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Dilated Pupils
● Abdominal Cramping
● Rapid Heart Beat
● Blurry Vision
● Goosebumps
● Diarrhea
Identifying the signs and symptoms of abuse can allow the user to identify the severity of their addiction. Taking the leap of faith to admit to an inpatient treatment program at LA Valley Recovery is stressful and can be scary. Knowing the processes and procedures of our Opiate Detoxification Progam can shine a light on the possibilities for those suffering from addiction.
Our Opiate Detoxification Process
When we receive calls from those searching for detoxification, we start with our pre-screen process.
Opiate Pre-Screening
LA Valley Recovery has dedicated employees who are available 24/7 to conduct our pre-screen process. This allows us to gather information about substance use history, medical history, treatment history, and other important pieces of information in order to prepare the team at LA Valley Recovery to help you as best as possible.
Once the pre-screen is conducted, medical and clinical are updated, insurance information and benefits are confirmed, and an admission date is set, then the preparation for admission begins. The steps of detox vary between each individual, but there are some standard practices that can help paint a picture of what Opiate Detoxification will look like at LA Valley Recovery.
Intake
Upon arrival, each patient undergoes the admission and intake process, which includes the following:
Medical Checks
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COVID-19 Test
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Urinalysis Test
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Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
Admissions Process
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Consent Forms
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Search Of Person/Belongings
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Tour Of Facility
After these standard procedures are completed, the patient will then be seen by our Medical Director. At this time, the withdrawal symptom severity will be determined based on assessments made by our doctor. This will determine any changes that need to be made to the medication that will help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Opiates typically use medications like Suboxone and Subutex are utilized during the withdrawal period, but due to the symptoms of Opiate withdrawal being non-fatal, the option to avoid any medication assistance is also an option.
Once medication regimens are discussed with the medical staff at LA Valley Recovery, we will then make sure our clients are fed, shown their living space, and made comfortable in any way we can. From here, You are on your way to a new life in recovery. The initial push to muster the courage to seek the help you need is the hardest part. After that, we use the skills of our employees and clinicians to create a treatment plan fitting your individual situation.
Understanding Fentanyl's Potency and Effects
In 2022, the CDC reported that close to 110,000 people died due to the fentanyl crisis. CDC officials say that this synthetic opioid is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.
Pharmaceutical fentanyl is used by medical professionals to treat pain related to surgery and advanced-stage cancer. However, it is illegally made fentanyl (IMF) that has been linked to most recently documented overdose deaths.
Signs and Effects of Fentanyl Abuse
At LA Valley Recovery, we are dedicated to offering compassionate and comprehensive resources to those suffering from addiction. Having a significant understanding of fentanyl abuse and its indicators is critical to properly addressing it in a timely, caring manner.
The potency of fentanyl makes it a substance that can quickly transform someone's dependence on it into addiction. Much like other opioids, frequent use of fentanyl inhibits the opioid receptors found in the brain. This created resistance makes it difficult for users to gain pleasure from anything less powerful than the drug, causing turbulent addiction and dangerous drug use.
The effects of fentanyl include:
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Breathing problems
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Confusion
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Nausea
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Drowsiness
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Constipation
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Sedation
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Unconsciousness
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Extreme happiness
People suffering from fentanyl addiction who stop using it suddenly can experience any of the following withdrawal symptoms:
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Severe cravings
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Cold flashes with goosebumps
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Diarrhea
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Vomiting
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Trouble sleeping
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Bone and muscle pain
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Uncontrollable leg movements
The medical professionals at LA Valley Recovery are here to provide various treatment options for those suffering from addiction and withdrawal effects. Our procedures entail medication assistance and fentanyl detox in Los Angeles.
Recovery does not have to feel like a lonely, daunting process. Identifying the adverse effects of addiction and reaching out for help is often the most difficult step. Our staff and medical professionals are here to lend you a helping hand on your journey to recovery. If you're curious about how we offer fentanyl detox Los Angeles residents can lean on, reach out to our team today.
