Fentanyl

What is Fentanyl?

Commonly used for severe or chronic pain management, Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid with similar effects of morphine or heroin; however its potency is much higher. When prescribed, Fentanyl comes in the form of pills, patches or lollipops. Powder, and pills made to appear as prescription medications, are the common forms of illegally made Fentanyl. Because of its high potency, Fentanyl is responsible for a high percentage of overdoses which makes an addiction more serious. LifeWorks NW of Portland Oregon is here to help. Our compassionate team of addiction specialists are available throughout Multnomah County, Washington County and Clackamas County.

Symptoms of Fentanyl Use

Fentanyl affects the brain and central nervous system. Signs that someone has overused Fentanyl include:

  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Slurred Speech
  • Dizziness
  • Slowed Breathing
  • Unconsciousness

If you, or someone you know, experiences these symptoms, please feel free to contact LifeWorks NW today.

Long-Term Effects of Fentanyl Addiction

If a person continues to overuse Fentanyl for a long period of time, serious complications and damage could occur. The long-term effects of Fentanyl Addiction include:

  • Lack of Motivation
  • Social Withdrawal
  • Paranoia
  • Personality changes
  • Hallucinations
  • Depression
  • Stroke
  • Brain Injury

Fentanyl Overdose

Not only does Fentanyl pose a greater risk of overdose, but its potency creates an even greater risk of death from overdose. The faster an overdose is recognized, the more likely the person will recover. Signs of a Fentanyl overdose include

  • Loss of Consciousness
  • No responsiveness
  • Inability to speak
  • Slow breathing
  • Weak or slow pulse

The LifeWorks NW team wants to help avoid both addiction and overdose. We believe all people can live healthy and meaningful lives with the help of our quality and culturally responsive addiction services. We understand how scary and difficult addiction can be. To get any questions answered, or to get more information, contact us today.

Fentanyl Addiction Treatment

Addiction treatment is a journey involving several different steps that all work together. Fentanyl addiction treatment will include a detox period followed by rehab, therapy and long-term support. LifeWorks NW has addiction services for those of all ages located throughout Clackamas County, Multnomah County and Washington County..

  1. Detox: This process clears the body of the chemical in a controlled manner to monitor and alleviate withdrawal as safely as possible.
  2. Therapy: Topics you can expect to discuss include: what circumstances, life experiences or traumas resulted in substance abuse? What support is needed? In the future, what coping strategies will help resist the urge to use?
  3. Programs: Often referred to 12-Step Programs, these offer the support of a community who knows what meth addiction is like can help your sobriety journey.

LifeWorks NW also provides DUI support in addition to Residential Recovery Services for women and children.

If you are interested in learning more about treatment, addiction or need support, please contact the LifeWorks NW team today.