Fentanyl Addiction in Philadelphia

Fentanyl addiction is a growing public health crisis in Philadelphia. According to the DEA, fentanyl is the Philadelphia area’s top local drug threat, and in 2021, 82% of overdose deaths in Philadelphia included fentanyl.

To address the growing fentanyl crisis, we must focus on educating the public, increasing access to treatment, and cracking down on illegal fentanyl production and trafficking. In response, UNISON Rehab has developed a comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment to help those addicted get the help they need. By working together, we can reduce the number of people who die from fentanyl overdoses.

UNISON Rehab offers various fentanyl addiction treatment options, including detox, intensive therapy, aftercare programs, and sober living. Our comprehensive fentanyl addiction treatment program begins with an assessment and planning phase to gauge addiction severity and develop a personalized treatment plan.

If you or a loved one is battling fentanyl, know that help is available. Contact us today at (267) 440-7205.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is a prescription drug used to treat severe pain, such as pain associated with cancer or surgery. Fentanyl can also be used to manage chronic pain, but it is typically only used for people who have already developed a tolerance to other opioids.

Fentanyl is also illegally manufactured and sold on the streets. Illegally manufactured fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, without the user’s knowledge. This can lead to accidental overdoses and death.

Why is Fentanyl Addictive?

Fentanyl is highly addictive because it binds to opioid receptors in the brain and produces a powerful euphoria. Over time, the body develops a tolerance to fentanyl, meaning that the user must take higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependence and addiction.

How Does Fentanyl Addiction Develop?

Fentanyl addiction can develop in several ways. Some people may become addicted after using fentanyl for legitimate medical purposes. For example, a person with cancer who is prescribed fentanyl for pain relief may develop a tolerance to the drug and need to take higher and higher doses. This can lead to dependence and addiction, even if the person uses fentanyl for legitimate medical reasons.

Other people may become addicted to fentanyl after using it recreationally. Fentanyl is often used recreationally because it produces a powerful euphoria. However, fentanyl is also extremely dangerous; even a small fentanyl overdose can be fatal.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction

The symptoms of fentanyl abuse are similar to those of other opioid drugs, but they can be more severe and occur more quickly due to the potency of fentanyl. Some of the most common symptoms of fentanyl addiction include:

Cravings for fentanyl

This is one of the most common and hallmark symptoms of addiction to any substance, including fentanyl. People with fentanyl addiction have an intense and uncontrollable desire to use the drug, even if they know it is harmful.

Difficulty sleeping

Fentanyl can interfere with sleep patterns, making falling and staying asleep difficult. This can be due to the effects of the drug on the brain’s central nervous system.

Anxiety and depression

Fentanyl can also cause anxiety and depression. This is because fentanyl can alter the brain’s chemistry and disrupt the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, responsible for regulating mood.

Nausea and vomiting

Fentanyl can also cause nausea and vomiting. This is due to the drug’s effects on the digestive system.

Constipation

Fentanyl can also cause constipation. This is because the drug can slow food movement through the digestive system.

Pupil constriction

Fentanyl can also cause pupil constriction, known as miosis. This is because the drug activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which causes the pupils to constrict.

Pale skin

Fentanyl can also cause pale skin. This is because the drug can cause vasodilation, which is the widening of the blood vessels. This can lead to decreased blood pressure and blood flow to the skin.

Confusion

Fentanyl can also cause confusion. The drug can impair cognitive function and interfere with the brain’s ability to process information.

Drowsiness

Fentanyl can also cause drowsiness and fatigue. This is because the drug depresses the central nervous system.

Slow breathing

Fentanyl can also cause slow breathing, known as respiratory depression. The drug can depress the brain’s respiratory center, which controls breathing.

Get Ready to Get Started

If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, please seek help. There are many resources available to help those in need of addiction treatment. Contact us to start rehab today.

Treatment Options for Fentanyl Abuse

Substance abuse treatment is not one-size-fits-all. At UNISON Rehab, we understand the nuances of fentanyl use disorders and tailor our treatment approach to each individual. Some effective strategies include:

MAT is a combination of medication and counseling widely considered the gold standard for treating addiction to fentanyl or other opioids. MAT medications reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to stay sober. Counseling helps people understand the root of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.

The three most common MAT medications for fentanyl abuse are:

  • Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as fentanyl. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is available in oral and injectable form.
  • Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as fentanyl but with less affinity. This means that it produces a milder opioid effect. Buprenorphine is available in oral, sublingual, and injectable forms.
  • Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids at the receptor site. This helps to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Naltrexone is available in oral and injectable form.

MAT can be a very effective treatment for fentanyl addiction. Studies have shown that MAT can help people stay sober longer, reduce their risk of drug abuse overdose, and improve their overall quality of life.

Here is a more detailed overview of the benefits of MAT for fentanyl addiction:

  • Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms: MAT medications can help to reduce cravings and severe withdrawal symptoms, especially in the early stages of recovery, making it easier for people to stay sober.
  • Improves treatment retention: MAT has been shown to improve treatment retention, meaning that people are more likely to stay in treatment and complete their treatment program. This is because MAT can help people manage their intense withdrawal symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
  • Reduces overdose risk: MAT has been shown to reduce the risk of overdose death. This is because MAT medications can help to prevent people from relapsing and using opioids again.
  • Improves quality of life: MAT can help people to improve their overall quality of life. MAT can help people manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms, improve their mental and physical health, and regain social and vocational functioning.

Individual and group therapy can play an important role in fentanyl addiction treatment. Individual therapy can help people unpack the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to manage stress, triggers, and cravings. Group therapy can provide support and accountability from others who are going through similar experiences.

Detoxification is the process of safely withdrawing from fentanyl under medical supervision. This can be challenging, but it is essential for people who want to recover from fentanyl addiction.

What to expect during fentanyl detoxification:

  • Withdrawal symptoms: Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be severe and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, sweating, muscle aches, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms typically last 7-10 days, but some may experience withdrawal symptoms for longer.
  • Medication: During detoxification, people may be given medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for fentanyl. Common medications used for fentanyl detoxification include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
  • Support: Patients need to have support during detoxification. This may include support from family, friends, and medical staff.

At UNISON Rehab, we understand that aftercare and support are essential for fentanyl addiction treatment. That’s why we offer a wide range of aftercare and support services to help our patients maintain their sobriety and live healthy and productive lives in recovery.

Our aftercare and support services include:

  • Individual and group counseling: Our licensed therapists provide individual and group counseling to help our patients address the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and prevent relapse.
  • Support groups: We offer a variety of support groups, including 12-step programs and other groups for people in recovery from fentanyl addiction. Our support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where people can share their experiences and learn from each other.
  • Vocational rehabilitation: Our vocational rehabilitation specialists help our patients to find employment and support them in their careers. We understand that having a job is essential to recovery, and we are committed to helping our patients achieve their career goals.
  • Case management: Our case managers work with our patients to develop individualized care plans and coordinate care. They also help our patients to access the resources they need to stay sober, such as housing, transportation, and healthcare.

In addition to these core aftercare and support services, UNISON Rehab also offers a variety of other services to support our patients in their recovery, such as:

  • Life skills training: Our life skills training classes teach our patients how to live independently and successfully in recovery. This may include skills such as budgeting, time management, and job readiness.
  • Relapse prevention workshops: Our relapse prevention workshops teach our patients how to identify and manage triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and create a relapse prevention plan.
  • Family education groups: Our family education groups provide support and education to the family members of people in recovery from fentanyl addiction.

At UNISON Rehab, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of aftercare and support. We understand that recovery is a journey, and we are here to support our patients every step of the way.

Treatment Options for Fentanyl Abuse

Substance abuse treatment is not one-size-fits-all. At UNISON Rehab, we understand the nuances of fentanyl use disorders and tailor our treatment approach to each individual. Some effective strategies include:

MAT is a combination of medication and counseling widely considered the gold standard for treating addiction to fentanyl or other opioids. MAT medications reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to stay sober. Counseling helps people understand the root of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.

The three most common MAT medications for fentanyl abuse are:

  • Methadone: Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as fentanyl. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Methadone is available in oral and injectable form.
  • Buprenorphine: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist that works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as fentanyl but with less affinity. This means that it produces a milder opioid effect. Buprenorphine is available in oral, sublingual, and injectable forms.
  • Naltrexone: Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids at the receptor site. This helps to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Naltrexone is available in oral and injectable form.

MAT can be a very effective treatment for fentanyl addiction. Studies have shown that MAT can help people stay sober longer, reduce their risk of drug abuse overdose, and improve their overall quality of life.

Here is a more detailed overview of the benefits of MAT for fentanyl addiction:

  • Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms: MAT medications can help to reduce cravings and severe withdrawal symptoms, especially in the early stages of recovery, making it easier for people to stay sober.
  • Improves treatment retention: MAT has been shown to improve treatment retention, meaning that people are more likely to stay in treatment and complete their treatment program. This is because MAT can help people manage their intense withdrawal symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
  • Reduces overdose risk: MAT has been shown to reduce the risk of overdose death. This is because MAT medications can help to prevent people from relapsing and using opioids again.
  • Improves quality of life: MAT can help people to improve their overall quality of life. MAT can help people manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms, improve their mental and physical health, and regain social and vocational functioning.

Individual and group therapy can play an important role in fentanyl addiction treatment. Individual therapy can help people unpack the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to manage stress, triggers, and cravings. Group therapy can provide support and accountability from others who are going through similar experiences.

Detoxification is the process of safely withdrawing from fentanyl under medical supervision. This can be challenging, but it is essential for people who want to recover from fentanyl addiction.

What to expect during fentanyl detoxification:

  • Withdrawal symptoms: Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can be severe and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, sweating, muscle aches, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms typically last 7-10 days, but some may experience withdrawal symptoms for longer.
  • Medication: During detoxification, people may be given medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for fentanyl. Common medications used for fentanyl detoxification include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
  • Support: Patients need to have support during detoxification. This may include support from family, friends, and medical staff.

At UNISON Rehab, we understand that aftercare and support are essential for fentanyl addiction treatment. That’s why we offer a wide range of aftercare and support services to help our patients maintain their sobriety and live healthy and productive lives in recovery.

Our aftercare and support services include:

  • Individual and group counseling: Our licensed therapists provide individual and group counseling to help our patients address the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and prevent relapse.
  • Support groups: We offer a variety of support groups, including 12-step programs and other groups for people in recovery from fentanyl addiction. Our support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where people can share their experiences and learn from each other.
  • Vocational rehabilitation: Our vocational rehabilitation specialists help our patients to find employment and support them in their careers. We understand that having a job is essential to recovery, and we are committed to helping our patients achieve their career goals.
  • Case management: Our case managers work with our patients to develop individualized care plans and coordinate care. They also help our patients to access the resources they need to stay sober, such as housing, transportation, and healthcare.

In addition to these core aftercare and support services, UNISON Rehab also offers a variety of other services to support our patients in their recovery, such as:

  • Life skills training: Our life skills training classes teach our patients how to live independently and successfully in recovery. This may include skills such as budgeting, time management, and job readiness.
  • Relapse prevention workshops: Our relapse prevention workshops teach our patients how to identify and manage triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and create a relapse prevention plan.
  • Family education groups: Our family education groups provide support and education to the family members of people in recovery from fentanyl addiction.

At UNISON Rehab, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of aftercare and support. We understand that recovery is a journey, and we are here to support our patients every step of the way.

how it works

Fentanyl Abuse Treatment Process

Assessment & Planning

At UNISON Rehab, the pathway to recovery from fentanyl addiction starts with an in-depth assessment. Our medical team analyzes the severity and patterns of fentanyl use to devise a treatment plan tailored to the individual. This comprehensive plan factors any coexisting mental health issues and aligns with health insurance provisions, ensuring the most effective approach to fentanyl addiction treatment.

Fentanyl Detox

When you first enter treatment at UNISON Rehab for fentanyl addiction, we’ll immediately coordinate a personalized detox and stabilization plan to manage your withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably. This may include a combination of medication, rest, and nutrition. Our team of experienced medical professionals will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and that your withdrawal symptoms are adequately managed.

Intensive Therapy

Following detox, the focus at UNISON Rehab shifts to addressing the psychological aspects of fentanyl abuse. We employ therapeutic techniques tailored for fentanyl addiction, incorporating group, individual, and family therapies and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Recognizing that fentanyl abuse often coexists with other mental health conditions, our holistic approach ensures both the addiction and any underlying issues are treated, laying a robust foundation for sustained recovery.

Assessment & Planning

At UNISON Rehab, the pathway to recovery from fentanyl addiction starts with an in-depth assessment. Our medical team analyzes the severity and patterns of fentanyl use to devise a treatment plan tailored to the individual. This comprehensive plan factors any coexisting mental health issues and aligns with health insurance provisions, ensuring the most effective approach to fentanyl addiction treatment.

Fentanyl Detox

When you first enter treatment at UNISON Rehab for fentanyl addiction, we’ll immediately coordinate a personalized detox and stabilization plan to manage your withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably. This may include a combination of medication, rest, and nutrition. Our team of experienced medical professionals will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and that your withdrawal symptoms are adequately managed.

Intensive Therapy

Following detox, the focus at UNISON Rehab shifts to addressing the psychological aspects of fentanyl abuse. We employ therapeutic techniques tailored for fentanyl addiction, incorporating group, individual, and family therapies and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Recognizing that fentanyl abuse often coexists with other mental health conditions, our holistic approach ensures both the addiction and any underlying issues are treated, laying a robust foundation for sustained recovery.

The path to recovery isn’t always linear, but with the proper support, it’s possible. At UNISON Rehab, we believe that everyone has the potential to recover from fentanyl abuse. Our intensive therapy programs are designed to help our patients achieve their recovery goals and live healthy and fulfilling lives. Contact us today to learn more about our fentanyl rehab in Philadelphia.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Overdose: Fentanyl is a potent opioid; even a small amount can be fatal. Overdose can lead to coma, respiratory depression, and death.
  • Heart problems: Fentanyl can cause several heart problems, including decreased heart rate, irregular heartbeats, and heart failure.
  • Respiratory failure: Fentanyl can depress breathing, leading to respiratory failure and death.
  • Other risks: Fentanyl addiction can also lead to other serious problems, such as financial problems, legal problems, and relationship problems.

The success rate of fentanyl addiction treatment varies depending on the individual, but pairing therapy with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has shown promising reductions in relapse. MAT is a combination of medication and counseling widely considered the gold standard for treating opioid addiction. MAT medications reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for people to stay sober. Counseling helps people understand the root of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.

Most insurance plans cover fentanyl addiction treatment in Philadelphia, but you must check with your provider. The specifics of coverage differ depending on your insurance plan. Please contact us at (267) 440-7205 to help you verify your insurance benefits. We accept major health insurance and offer various payment alternatives. 

UNISON Rehab accepts all major insurances and has a variety of payment options, including:

  • Blue Cross
  • Humana
  • Aetna
  • Magellan
  • Tricare
  • Anthem
  • Cigna
  • Allied Trades

The specific course of fentanyl addiction treatment will vary depending on the individual’s needs. However, most treatment programs will include a combination of the following:

  • Assessment: At the beginning of treatment, the individual will be assessed to determine the severity of their addiction, any coexisting medical or mental health conditions, and readiness for change.
  • Detoxification: If necessary, the individual will undergo detoxification to withdraw from fentanyl safely.
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT medications may be prescribed to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Counseling: The individual will participate in individual and group counseling to address the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms to prevent relapse.
  • Support groups: The individual may also participate in support groups to connect with others in recovery.

The length of fentanyl addiction treatment will vary depending on the individual’s needs. However, most treatment programs last for several weeks or months. Some people may need to participate in long-term treatment or aftercare programs to maintain their sobriety.

Absolutely! Confidentiality is paramount in our group. We strictly adhere to HIPAA guidelines, ensuring the confidentiality of treatment details and personal records. Moreover, all members sign a legally binding confidentiality agreement. We take every precaution to protect your privacy, including your mental health information. We can only disclose any information about your treatment with your express written permission. The only exception is if you pose a serious and immediate danger to yourself or someone else.