Fentanyl Addiction

Risk Factors

• Use of counterfeit prescription pills, which increasingly contain fentanyl
• Prior opioid use of any kind, since fentanyl is frequently mixed into other substances
• Chronic pain conditions with a history of opioid use
• Prior overdose or near-overdose experience

Signs & Symptoms

• Rapid tolerance requiring increasing amounts to achieve the same effect
• Severe withdrawal symptoms when not using
• Using alone or in secret, often tied to shame or fear of judgment
• Physical signs including pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, or slowed breathing
• Continued use despite awareness of the extreme risk involved

How We Evaluate It

We conduct an urgent, thorough medical evaluation given the elevated risk profile of fentanyl use, assessing your specific situation, any overdose history, and your readiness to begin treatment — with an emphasis on getting you started as quickly as possible.

Our Treatment Approach

Given fentanyl's potency, medical support during the transition to medication-assisted treatment is especially important, and we prioritize rapid access to care.

• Medically supported initiation of medication-assisted treatment
• Close monitoring during the early stabilization period
• Overdose prevention education and naloxone access for you and your household
• Individual and group counseling as part of your ongoing plan

What to Expect

Fentanyl's severity means the stabilization period can be more intensive, but MAT is highly effective at reducing cravings and overdose risk once treatment begins.

We prioritize getting fentanyl patients into care quickly, given the elevated risk of delay.