Written by:

Lee Spinks

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

August 30th, 2023

Fentanyl rehab

A recent UK government study found that out of 133,704 people that started their treatment journey for drug problems in 2021, 25% stated that they had issues with opiates.
Sadly, with more and more powerful drugs such as fentanyl emerging in the market, the numbers are expected to rise. If you find yourself needing a helping hand with your fentanyl use, Banbury Lodge is committed to providing just that. Although it’s hard watching struggling people come through the doors of our rehab centre, we’re delighted when we see people leave through them in a healthier and more positive state.

What is fentanyl rehab?

Fentanyl rehabilitation is an opiate rehab treatment programme that helps individuals overcome issues developed with fentanyl. This potent synthetic opioid is sometimes used for pain relief in the UK but can lead to dependency and, in some cases, overdose. The rehabilitation process typically involves a combination of medical detoxification, therapy and an aftercare support programme. The primary goal is to help you stop using fentanyl and manage withdrawal symptoms safely while addressing the underlying root causes of your problem. The rehabilitation process also involves ongoing monitoring and support to prevent relapse and promote long-term recovery.

Who is most at risk for developing a fentanyl problem?

The risk of developing a fentanyl addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, social status, or personal background. Substance abuse has the potential to creep up on individuals over time without them realising the severity of the situation. The gradual progression of unhealthy coping mechanisms can lead to long-term consequences and impact physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. It is essential to be mindful of the warning signs and seek help to prevent the development of such destructive habits.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Have you been taking fentanyl at higher doses or more frequently than prescribed?
• Have you tried quitting fentanyl but failed to do so?
• Have you felt strong cravings or urges to use fentanyl?
• Has your use of fentanyl interfered with your daily activities?
• Have you experienced physical or psychological withdrawal symptoms when you tried to lower or stop using fentanyl?
• Do you continue to use fentanyl despite knowing the negative consequences it has on your health, relationships, or finances?

If you’re asking yourself these questions and are answering with ”yes”, it might be time to allow medical professionals to take over from here. You could have problems that need to be addressed.

What are the health benefits of fentanyl abstinence?

Quitting fentanyl can significantly improve your physical and mental health and quality of life and prevent various health complications. Below, we take a closer look at why the health benefits are so important;

• Reduced risk of overdose: Fentanyl is a potent opioid that can cause respiratory depression and overdose, which can be deadly. Abstinence from fentanyl reduces the risk of overdose.
• Improved mental health: Extended use of fentanyl can lead to depression, anxiety and other mental health problems. Abstinence from fentanyl can improve mental health and emotional wellbeing.
• Improved physical health: Chronic use of fentanyl can lead to physical health problems such as respiratory issues, gastrointestinal problems and weakened immune system. Abstinence from fentanyl can help improve overall physical health.
• Improved sleep: Fentanyl use can disrupt sleep patterns, causing insomnia and other sleep-related issues. Abstinence from fentanyl can lead to better sleep quality, which can improve overall health and wellbeing.
• Enhanced cognitive function: Fentanyl use can impair cognitive function, including memory and concentration. Abstinence can help restore cognitive function and improve overall mental clarity.

Is it dangerous to try and beat fentanyl on my own?

Attempting to quit fentanyl on your own can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening, depending on the severity of your use. Fentanyl can cause physical and psychological dependence, leading to intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms and relapse if not managed in a safe and controlled environment.

Withdrawal from fentanyl alone can be challenging and cause various symptoms, such as,

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Sweating or chills
• Muscle and bone pain
• Restless or shaky sensation
• Increased heart rate or blood pressure
• Insomnia or excessive sleepiness
• Loss of appetite, stomach cramps or bloating
• Headaches or migraines
• Respiratory problems such as shortness of breath or rapid breathing

Without proper medical supervision and support, withdrawal symptoms can be severe, leading to dehydration, malnutrition, seizures and other complications that may require emergency medical attention.

Unsupervised detox can also cause severe emotional distress and increase the risk of relapse.

Seeking professional help from prescription drug rehab specialists, such as Banbury Lodge, can increase the likelihood of a successful recovery while minimising risks to your health and wellbeing.

What does Banbury Lodge provide for fentanyl recovery?

Our residential rehab centre provides specialised treatment for problems with fentanyl. We offer various services that can help individuals overcome fentanyl misuse and maintain long-term recovery. Our detox programme, evidence-based therapies and aftercare support programmes all work together to help you achieve lasting recovery. Here’s a little bit more about what we offer:

Detoxification

Banbury Lodge offers a medically supervised fentanyl detox programme, which is crucial for individuals who are reliant on fentanyl.

Counselling

Banbury Lodge provides a range of counselling options that are designed to help you address the underlying causes of extended fentanyl use. We offer a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), group therapy sessions and other evidence-based therapies that can help you progress on the road to recovery.

Additionally, counselling is designed to help you to develop new coping strategies and life skills to manage cravings and avoid relapse. It provides you with the tools necessary to maintain long-term sobriety and live a life clean from drugs.

It also aims to help you rebuild relationships and regain trust with loved ones while assisting you in learning how to develop a strong support network, which is crucial for sustained recovery.

Aftercare Support

Banbury Lodge offers a comprehensive aftercare support programme to help individuals maintain recovery after completing their treatment. Our aftercare plan includes ongoing counselling sessions, support groups and follow-up care. This kind of programme is crucial because it can help you reduce the risk of relapse and stay on track with your recovery.

If I complete fentanyl rehab, does this mean I’m cured?

Completing fentanyl rehab is an important first step for you toward recovery, but it does not necessarily mean that you are “cured” of your struggles with substance use. Your success is paramount to your own effort and dedication.

While rehab can provide you with the tools, skills and support you need to overcome your fentanyl issues, it’s important for you to continue applying these skills and strategies in your daily life. This may include ongoing counselling, participation in support groups and making lifestyle changes to support your sobriety.

Ultimately, your recovery is a lifelong journey and you can benefit from ongoing support and care to maintain your sobriety and continue to grow and thrive in your life.

Frequently asked questions