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Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
at Ripple Ranch

Effective drug and alcohol detoxification can be a very important first step in the process of achieving lifelong sobriety. 

It is impossible to avoid hearing about fentanyl in modern-day America. It seems daily we hear of another overdose death in our community, either through media publications or word of mouth.

So what is this deadly drug, and why is it on our streets? Why are so many falling victim to it?

These questions are fair to be asked. The answers are complex.

One thing is certain, however — it is our duty to look out for one another and help each other when someone we know has been using fentanyl or other substances.

In 2021, deaths from overdose rose across Southeast and Central Texas, according to the Austin American-Statesman newspaper.

Ripple Ranch Recovery is happy to offer fentanyl addiction treatment to anyone facing this challenge.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic (man-made) opioid compound that was first created in 1960. It was created, marketed, and prescribed for moderate to severe levels of pain in the immediate aftermath of surgery. Today, fentanyl is still prescribed, but only for cancer patients that have already been prescribed opioids to treat their pain but are still having pain. This pain is most commonly known as breakthrough pain.

It is believed that fentanyl is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. Due to this potency, fentanyl has an incredibly high level of potential for misuse, addiction, and overdose. The highest risk for addiction and overdose lies in the repackaging and misrepresentation of drugs like heroin by street dealers. Fentanyl is often added or “cut” into these other drugs to increase the desire of the user to return to buy more – in turn creating a higher profit for the dealer. In the above-listed article from the Austin American-Statesman, we learn of these dangers in the form of counterfeit pills that are being sold on Central Texas streets.

Signs of Fentanyl Addiction

Before confronting a loved one with treatment options for fentanyl addiction, it is important to be assured that an addiction, or even use, is taking place.

While some of us can be confident that fentanyl is being used because of witnessing it firsthand, not all of us can be completely sure. There are signs to look for if you are questioning whether or not a loved one needs fentanyl addiction treatment.

Fentanyl has a long list of side effects that may occur and appear evident. They include:

  • Complaints of back pain
  • Complaints of chest pain
  • Convulsions
  • Confusion
  • Cough
  • Dry mouth
    • Cracked lips
  • Fainting
  • Fatigue
    • Increased tiredness
  • Pale skin
  • Nervousness
  • Mood changes
  • Mood swings
  • Shakiness
  • Labored breathing
  • Weight loss
  • Ulcers or sores around the mouth
  • Sneezing
  • Noticeable swelling
Any of these things are physical signs of fentanyl use and/or addiction. When it comes to social behavior, you may notice your loved one becoming increasingly confrontational, lying, and being secretive. Essentially, if you notice any significant physical signs mixed with social signs like lying and confrontational behavior, it may be time to speak with your loved one about getting help. If you still aren’t sure, Ripple Ranch is always willing to talk with you to help.

Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction in Texas

In Texas, hundreds of lives are lost annually to overdose. At Ripple Ranch, we are aiming to lower that number by offering treatment for people from different backgrounds while giving each patient a personalized plan that is based on their background.

Fentanyl addiction treatment often begins with a period of detox in which our staff will help you in facing the symptoms of withdrawal with around-the-clock supervision.

Following this period of time, our team will begin to work with you on the treatment plan designed specifically for you based on your background and addiction. This can be done at our facility in either an inpatient or outpatient setting.

Our inpatient program takes place over four to six weeks. It requires patients to temporarily leave their home and live at our top-of-the-line facility.

For those who have long-standing addictions, are a danger to themselves, or have tried treatment many times before, residential treatment is considered the stronger option. It’s also important to give residential treatment consideration if you need to get away from your everyday life and give your entire focus to your recovery.

Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a great option for those who are needing fentanyl addiction treatment but are unable to leave their home life entirely for 30-45 days. You will receive the same treatments but leave the facility nightly to return home.

We know how important family is and how much impact they can have in the recovery process, so we also offer family therapy programs specifically with that in mind. Ripple Ranch knows the environment surrounding a person has a lot to do with how they respond to situations or cope. If the environment is one of misunderstanding, arguing, or anger, it could push the person struggling with a substance use disorder to use again.

Ripple Ranch Recovery Offers the Best

At Ripple Ranch, we offer evidence-based therapies along with alternative methods of treatment to give a holistic approach to each patient entering either our inpatient program or our intensive outpatient program.

At our facility in Spring Branch, we specialize in providing our patients with a mix of the following within a carefully considered, personalized treatment plan:

  • Individual therapy
    • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Group therapy
  • Life-skills training
  • Alternative, holistic therapies that address physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs
    • Trauma-informed yoga, tai chi, exercise, and more
  • 12-step program
    • Alternatives to 12-step if this suits your needs

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Because of the harsh reactions it can cause in our bodies, stopping the use of fentanyl will cause withdrawal symptoms if a person has become dependent upon it. Withdrawal from fentanyl, like other opioids, lasts anywhere from five days to two weeks and comes with a large mix of symptoms. Symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal may include:
  • Muscle pain
  • Weakness
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Restlessness
  • Sweating
  • Joint pain
  • Cravings for fentanyl
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • High blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Respiratory (breathing) distress
All of these symptoms are enough to make detoxing with the help of medical professionals a necessity. With the help of experienced professionals, these symptoms can be handled in a much more comfortable way. At Ripple Ranch Recovery, we offer inpatient treatment with 24/7 assistance and oversight that may include the use of medications to lessen symptoms. It also allows for a more seamless transition into treatment.

How Common Is Fentanyl Overdose?

If you or someone you loved may be overdosing, call 911 immediately. Finding treatment is incredibly important when a person is addicted or even simply using fentanyl on occasion. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), fentanyl and other synthetic (man-made) opioids are the most common substances involved in overdose deaths.

Unfortunately, because of the methods of drug dealers in our communities and the lack of clarity on what is actually purchased, many have overdosed without knowing they were even consuming fentanyl. Fentanyl is commonly cut into other drugs like heroin, cocaine, MDMA, or methamphetamine. Fentanyl is hard to detect because it looks similar to many other drugs. Most commonly, it is sold as an off-white or light brown powder. When mixed with other substances, it is nearly impossible to distinguish.

Start Treatment at Ripple Ranch Recovery Today

Ripple Ranch Recovery’s fentanyl addiction treatment in Spring Branch, Texas (a short distance from Austin and San Antonio), typically begins with a detox period that lasts around five days to two weeks to provide you with the safest and most comfortable experience possible. You will then receive personalized treatment tailored to your unique needs. With effective programs that use the strengths and experience of our highly skilled staff, you or your loved one will take part in multiple evidence-based treatments. Last, but certainly not least, you will be given everything you need to prevent relapse and live a sober life. To learn more, call (830) 302-3591.

Contact Us Today to Get Started

Our team is standing by to teach you more about what we offer and help you figure out a care plan that will be most effective for you and your unique situation.