The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the United States, with fentanyl emerging as a hazardous substance. At Promises Brazos Valley, we understand the complexities of addiction. We are committed to providing the best possible care and spreading the word about the importance of NARCAN and other life-saving measures. If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, our comprehensive fentanyl rehab program is here to help. Contact our team online or call 979.426.0086 to learn more about NARCAN and fentanyl abuse.

What to Know About NARCAN and Fentanyl Abuse

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. While often prescribed for severe pain management, its high potency makes it susceptible to abuse and accidental overdose. Sadly, many illicit drugs are now mixed with fentanyl, leading to an increase in overdose deaths.

NARCAN, or naloxone, is a medication designed to quickly reverse opioid overdose by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the effects of opioids like fentanyl. It can be a life-saving tool in emergencies.

What Are the Dangers of Fentanyl Abuse?

Fentanyl abuse poses severe risks due to its potency and addictive nature. Some dangers include:

Addiction – Fentanyl is highly addictive, making it hard for individuals to quit without professional help.
Respiratory depression – Fentanyl can severely slow or stop breathing, leading to brain damage or death.
Mental health issues – Chronic fentanyl use can worsen existing mental health conditions or lead to new problems like depression and anxiety.

The most significant risk of fentanyl abuse is overdose. A small amount can cause an overdose, especially if someone is unaware they’re taking it. Fatal overdoses can happen quickly, so it’s essential to seek help and have NARCAN on hand.

What Is NARCAN?

NARCAN is an emergency treatment for opioid overdose. Administered via nasal spray or injection, it quickly reverses the effects of opioids, restoring normal breathing in minutes. It’s a vital tool for first responders, healthcare providers, and family members of those at risk for overdose.

If you suspect someone has overdosed on fentanyl or other opioids, follow these steps:

Call 911 immediately.
Administer NARCAN as directed by a healthcare provider or the package instructions.
Place the nozzle in one nostril for the nasal spray and press down firmly. Repeat in the other nostril if needed.
For injection, remove the cap and insert the needle into a large muscle—like the thigh. Press the plunger to inject.

Continue to monitor the individual after using NARCAN and seek further medical attention if necessary.

How Fentanyl Rehab Can Help

Fentanyl addiction can be challenging to overcome, but with the proper treatment and support, recovery is possible. A fentanyl rehab program offers a safe and structured environment for individuals to address their addiction and begin the healing process. Treatment may include:

Medical detox – A medically supervised detox helps manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure a safe transition into treatment.
Individual therapy – One-on-one counseling sessions allow individuals to work through underlying issues that contribute to their addiction.
Group therapy – Group therapy provides peer support and teaches valuable skills for maintaining sobriety.
Behavioral therapies – Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help individuals identify unhealthy thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Aftercare planning – A comprehensive aftercare plan helps individuals continue their recovery journey and avoid relapse after completing treatment.

As the opioid crisis affects millions, it’s vital to raise awareness about the risks of fentanyl abuse and the life-saving potential of NARCAN. Recognizing an overdose and knowing how to administer NARCAN can significantly impact saving a loved one’s life. At Promises Brazos Valley, we are committed to helping individuals overcome addiction and promoting education on substance abuse.

Connect with Promises Brazos Valley and Start Fentanyl Rehab in Texas Today

Fentanyl addiction is a challenging and life-threatening condition, but recovery is possible with the proper support. If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t wait—contact Promises Brazos Valley online or call 979.426.0086 today. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of the recovery process.