Search for Drug Treatment Centers in Los Angeles for Fentanyl and Heroin Abuse

Are you wondering about the range of treatment for drug addiction in LA rehab centers? Los Angeles, California, boasts a variety of rehab centers spread across Central and East LA, with options extending beyond the city limits. These facilities are well-equipped to address a wide range of addictions, be it heroin, fentanyl, or other substances. While some centers may have a specialization, most are adept at handling various substance use disorder issues.

In Los Angeles County (LAC), drug overdose ranks as the third-leading cause of injury and early death. A report from Los Angeles County revealed that in 2022, fentanyl was responsible for a staggering 59% of all overdose deaths involving drugs, such as heroin or alcohol. [1] The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health stated that the misuse of prescription drugs, especially opioid painkillers, has notably spiked, resulting in significant rises in fatalities. What makes this opioid epidemic worse is that many of those who abuse prescription drugs will eventually turn to heroin or even fentanyl for cheaper options.

When selecting drug treatment centers in California, it is critical to prioritize finding one with top ratings, evidence-based therapies, and proper licensing. Look for centers that offer treatment for co-occurring disorders and a program that provides personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and particular substance abuse. This customized strategy maximizes your chances of long-term sobriety, empowering you to achieve lasting wellness and fulfillment.

What is the substance abuse rate in Los Angeles?

Based on data from the L.A. County Department of Health, accidental fentanyl-related deaths skyrocketed by a staggering 1,652% from 2016 to 2022. [2] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also stated that within the bustling Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana metro area, about 1.6 million individuals engage in illicit drug use every year. Roughly 11% of these cases involve heroin use. [3] This trend of fentanyl and heroin abuse is on an upward trajectory, showing no signs of decline. Data indicates a persistent increase in the misuse of both substances over time.

The 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) also reported that among US adults aged 18+ years, 23.9% of full-time workers and 27.7% of part-time workers reported using illegal drugs in the past year. Current illicit drug use was highest among young adults aged 18-25 years at 40.5% of full-time workers and 40.0% of part-time employees. [4]

What are the long-term effects of heroin use?

Repeated heroin use changes the brain’s structure and functioning, causing lasting imbalances in neuronal and hormonal systems. This can lead to issues with decision-making, behavior regulation, and handling stress. Meet Sarah. She never thought she’d find herself in the grip of addiction, but heroin became her daily escape from life’s challenges. Sarah’s descent into opioid dependence began innocently enough following a knee surgery. Like many others, she trusted her doctors to alleviate her pain with prescribed medications. However, what was meant to be a temporary solution soon spiraled into a full-blown addiction. As her knee healed, Sarah found herself unable to shake the grip of opioids. Despite completing her treatment, the relentless pull of dependency led her down a dark path to heroin abuse. 

As the years passed, Sarah noticed her decision-making abilities deteriorating, replaced by impulsive actions driven by the drug’s hold on her brain. The longer she used, the more profound the damage became, and even after quitting, the risk of relapse loomed large due to lasting changes in her brain. Sarah’s journey is a stark reminder of why rehab is essential for those struggling with addiction. It’s not just about quitting the drug; it’s about addressing the underlying changes in the brain and learning healthier coping mechanisms. According to research, even if the number of men and women who use heroin is almost the same, women tend to progress more rapidly from initiation to dependence and experience more severe physical and mental health consequences when abusing drugs like heroin than men. [5] Heroin also builds tolerance, or needing more of the drug for the same effect and dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms if use is suddenly stopped. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, pain, insomnia, and nausea, peaking within 24–48 hours and lasting about a week.

What does heroin do when it enters the brain?

Heroin is considered to be one of the most addicting drugs of abuse. The following are its most common effects on the brain:

• Alters neurotransmitter levels.
• Suppresses pain perception.
• Induces euphoria.
• Impairs cognitive function.
• Disrupts brain communication.
• Causes physical dependence.
• Build tolerance.
• Triggers withdrawal symptoms.

People who use heroin often describe experiencing a “rush” of pleasure followed by sensations like warm flushing of the skin, dry mouth, and heaviness in the limbs. They may also encounter intense itching, nausea, and vomiting. Afterward, they typically feel drowsy for several hours, accompanied by slowed breathing. 

Overdosing on heroin can be fatal. All heroin users are at risk because they can’t be sure of its strength or additives. Also, combining heroin with other substances like alcohol heightens this risk. During an overdose, heart rate and breathing slow down, reducing oxygen to the brain, which can result in a coma, brain damage, or death.

Finding the Support You Need in Los Angeles Drug Rehab Centers for Heroin and Fentanyl Abuse

Drug treatment centers in California provide a wide range of approaches and solutions to treat fentanyl and heroin addiction, supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. These options include medical assistance and therapeutic support, all tailored to offer personalized care and comprehensive guidance for those seeking to overcome addiction and rebuild their lives. Furthermore, recovery doesn’t end with leaving rehab, as it’s an ongoing journey. Without adequate aftercare, the risk of relapse rises. Various rehab centers in Los Angeles offer ongoing therapy, halfway houses, and group sessions and propose support post-rehab as well. Contact us today for more options!

Resources:

[1] Prescription Drug Abuse in Los Angeles County – Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

[2] Data Report: Fentanyl Overdoses in Los Angeles County – LA County Department of Public Health (.gov)

[3] Substance Use and Mental Disorders in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana MSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) The NSDUH Report

[4] SAPC Data Brief  – Costs of Alcohol and Other Drug Misuse/Abuse

[5] Heroin Research Report – National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)