Actiq

Actiq is a solid preparation of fentanyl citrate, a synthetic opioid. It comes in the form of a lozenge on a plastic stick, allowing the user to suck the medication slowly. The United States classifies Actiq as a Schedule II controlled substance, which places significant restrictions on its medical use. Preparations of fentanyl that are similar to Actiq include Durogesic, Duragesic and Fentora. Actiq has a high potential for abuse and addiction, since it is an extremely potent opioid. You can find out more about Actiq addiction treatment by calling us at .

Medical Use

The approved medical use of Actiq is for the relief of breakthrough pain for cancer patients who are already opiate-tolerant. It also has off-label uses for patients who suffer severe, chronic pain from bone injuries, headaches and arthritis. An Actiq lozenge should be completely consumed within 15 minutes to ensure the proper dosage. One-fourth of the total dose is absorbed by the mouth and directly enters the bloodstream. The remaining three-fourths of the medication is swallowed and digested. The liver metabolizes half the total dose, leaving the other half available for pain relief.

Side Effects

Each dosage of Actiq has distinct coloring and packaging. These dosages are measured in micrograms of fentanyl citrate as follows:

• 200
• 400
• 600
• 800
• 1,200
• 1,600

Common side effects of Actiq when used in therapeutic doses include the following:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Respiratory depression
• Sedation
• Tolerance

These side effects are common to all opioids.

Recreational Use of Actiq

Actiq is subject to recreational use, as are other opioids, and it is inaccurately called a morphine lollipop. The street value of Actiq depends on the dose, but ranges between $5 and $25. The states of Connecticut and Pennsylvania are currently investigating the promotional practices of Cephalon, the manufacturer of Actiq. Health insurers frequently impose quantity limits on Actiq prescriptions.

Detox

Actiq detox is the first part of Actiq addiction treatment, which consists of eliminating the patient’s dependence on Actiq. During this phase, the addict may experience withdrawal symptoms when he or she stops taking the drug. Common physical symptoms of Actiq withdrawal include the following:

• Chills
• Cramps
• Diarrhea
• Itching
• Muscle pain
• Rapid heart beat
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sweating
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Yawning

Actiq withdrawal also causes psychological symptoms, including:

• Anxiety attacks
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Malaise
• Nausea
• Paranoia

Actiq addicts typically go through the detox phase in an inpatient center for addiction treatment. This allows the staff to watch the patient’s vital signs, especially heart rate and respiration. Detox programs usually involve reducing the patient’s intake of Actiq gradually to keep the withdrawal symptoms from becoming too severe. Some programs may replace Actiq with an opiate that is less powerful but lasts longer, which also reduces the withdrawal symptoms. The withdrawal stage of detox lasts up to five days and is followed by at least three weeks of rehab therapy. Find out more about Actiq detox centers and addiction treatment options by contacting us at .

Rehabilitation

“Actiq rehab addresses the psychological and emotional reconditioning that a patient needs after completing the detox phase.”Actiq rehab addresses the psychological and emotional reconditioning that a patient needs after completing the detox phase. An inpatient setting allows patients to focus on rehabilitation without distraction from their personal lives. This program usually has a specific duration, with 90 days being the most common length. Some inpatient programs have a duration of 30 or 60 days.

Therapy for Actiq addiction typically includes behavioral modification, which involves replacing drugs with healthier activities like exercise. The goal of this therapy is to find other methods besides drug use to trigger the release of endorphins. Cognitive therapy may also play a part in rehab therapy. The purpose of this therapy is to discover the underlying psychological reason for the patient’s addictive behavior. Therapists usually conduct sessions on an individual basis, although some centers use group therapy, which is most common in centers that cater to a particular population.

Drug treatment centers often have gyms and exercise facilities to assist patients with their recovery. Counseling sessions may include relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga. Activities like music and art in a social setting can be relaxing for patients as well. Some centers have their own signature programs instead of traditional 12-step programs.

It is important to understand that rehabilitation does not end after the patient’s release from a treatment center. Rehabilitation is a continuing process that does not have a specific end point. Patients will typically continue their treatment on an outpatient basis. These patients live at home and return to the Actiq addiction treatment center for their therapy sessions at designated times. If you’d like more information on the treatment process, please call us at .