Emergency detox for fentanyl enables anyone who is dependent on this potent synthetic opioid to tackle the withdrawal process safely and comfortably. Detoxing from fentanyl at home is dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Read on to find out what happens during emergency fentanyl detox and discover how to connect with a variety of services for the management of opioid abuse.
How to Get an Emergency Fentanyl Detox
The potency of fentanyl and the potentially life-threatening complications associated with the drug means that emergency fentanyl detox might be necessary.
At the first sign of fentanyl withdrawal, contact emergency services or a specialized detox facility equipped to handle opioid detoxification. Professional medical supervision helps manage withdrawal symptoms and allows for intervention in the event of complications. Detoxification under medical supervision often involves the use of medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, providing a safer and more comfortable experience.
In an emergency situation, being prepared for immediate admission to a detox facility can expedite the process. This may involve having a bag packed with essentials and arranging transportation in advance. Facilities may also require specific documentation upon admission, so having these documents ready can save valuable time.
Family members or friends should be informed and prepared to provide emotional support. Additionally, discussing the situation with a professional counselor or joining a support group can provide emotional resilience during and after detox. In some cases, though, it might be necessary for individuals detoxing from fentanyl to be hospitalized.
Going to The Hospital vs. Fentanyl Emergency Detox
For those who require emergency fentanyl detox, the two main options are:
- Hospitals
- Licensed medical detox centers
If someone is overdosing on fentanyl, seek emergency medical assistance so that the person can be hospitalized if needed. Fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin, so overdose can rapidly trigger life-threatening complications like respiratory depression or failure. Hospitals are equipped with the expertise and medical technology to address acute emergencies during fentanyl detox.
Emergency responders can administer life-saving interventions like naloxone (Narcan), an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse the effects of opioid overdose. The prompt administration of Narcan can be the difference between life and death.
Once the immediate danger has been addressed and the person is stabilized, they can transition to a specialized and licensed medical detox center. Detox centers provide a controlled and supportive environment in which people can safely withdraw from fentanyl under close medical supervision. Medical detox can mitigate the more severe symptoms of withdrawal, minimize complications, and reduce the risk of relapse in early recovery.
Detox centers also set the groundwork for ongoing recovery by providing counseling and support services to deal with the psychological side of addiction.
What to Expect at an Emergency Fentanyl Detox
Emergency fentanyl detox is an intervention designed to manage the acute withdrawal symptoms and medical complications associated with fentanyl cessation. Emergency detox is conducted in a clinical setting with medical supervision to ensure the safety and comfort of the person undergoing detox.
Here’s what to expect during detox:
- Assessment: Upon arrival, medical staff will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the level of fentanyl dependence, any co-occurring mental health conditions, and the overall physical health of the individual. This step underpins the creation of a personalized detox plan.
- Stabilization: The primary goal during this phase is to stabilize the person’s health through medical supervision and support. Medications may be administered to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms can can range from mild to severe and may include anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, and more severe symptoms like seizures.
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment): FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine or methadone, may be used to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medications help in reducing the physical discomfort associated with detox and can be a core component of an effective treatment plan.
- Support services: Psychological and emotional support is provided throughout the detox process. This may include counseling or therapy sessions to help manage the psychological aspects of addiction and withdrawal.
Detox is only the first step in the treatment process, though. Following detox, ongoing inpatient or outpatient treatment typically involves a blend of MAT, psychotherapies, counseling, holistic therapies, and relapse prevention.
Does Insurance Cover Emergency Fentanyl Detox?
Determining whether or not insurance covers addiction treatment services like emergency fentanyl detox can be tricky. To check if your health insurance covers the cost of treatment, complete a short form just here or call 800-994-2184 for on-the-spot assistance.
Our Same-Day Fentanyl Emergency Detox Center
At Gratitude Lodge, we provide emergency fentanyl detox and treatment for fentanyl overdose and addiction.
Our welcoming facilities located in Newport Beach and Long Beach, California, are staffed by compassionate mental health professionals who are experienced in managing complications surrounding the use of fentanyl.
Once you have stabilized and detoxed, you can move directly into an inpatient treatment program for opioid use disorder. Ongoing medication-assisted treatment will help alleviate cravings and encourage abstinence. Talk therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), counseling (both individual and group), and holistic treatments will be personalized to reflect your unique needs.
Call 800-994-2184 for emergency fentanyl detox.
