Addiction to Fentanyl or abuse of the drug is a serious problem in the United States. Used properly, Fentanyl is used to treat chronic and severe pain. It is considered one of the most potent synthetic opioids available, making it highly effective for relieving pain but also very dangerous if misused or abused. The drug has been linked to a growing number of overdose deaths in recent years. In this article, we’ll discuss what fentanyl is, how it affects the body and brain, and why it’s so addictive.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid drug that is used to treat severe pain. It is typically prescribed in the form of a patch or as an injection. Fentanyl can be up to 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, making it incredibly dangerous when misused. The drug works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain, which increases pleasure and decreases pain.
Fentanyl has legitimate medical use for palliative care or end-of-life situations, but it can also be abused through snorting, smoking, or injecting it into veins directly. In recent years, fentanyl has been linked to a rising number of fatal overdoses across the United States due to its high potency and availability on the black market. Fentanyl abuse should be taken seriously and anyone seeking treatment should seek help from a qualified medical professional.
Uses of Fentanyl in Medical Settings
Fentanyl is often prescribed for patients who have become tolerant to other opioid medications or when higher doses are required for serious or chronic pain relief. Fentanyl is also used for preoperative sedation and postoperative pain management due to its rapid onset of action. Its short half-life makes it ideal for quick relief from acute pain episodes such as that experienced during surgery or childbirth.
Forms of Fentanyl
Fentanyl has several different forms. It can be found in its original pharmaceutical form, like a tablet or patch, as well as on the street in powder or pill form. Many illicitly manufactured pills contain fentanyl mixed with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines. This can result in higher concentrations of fentanyl than expected for the user, which increases their risk of overdose. Users often do not know what they are consuming when they use these products and can unintentionally consume too much of the drug.
Risks Associated With the Use of Fentanyl
Fentanyl carries significant risks if misused or taken without a doctor’s prescription. Individuals can develop an addiction to Fentanyl. Using this opioid can cause serious side effects, including difficulty breathing and respiratory depression, which can lead to coma or even death.
In addition, fentanyl can be addictive and can increase the risk of overdose if taken in large doses. Other potential risks associated with using Fentanyl include confusion, drowsiness, nausea, and hallucinations. People who take Fentanyl without medical supervision may also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug abruptly.
Steps to Take if You or a Loved One Are Addicted To Fentanyl
If you or a loved one is using fentanyl non-medically, it is important to take steps to ensure safety and reduce the risk of an overdose. The first step should be to seek professional help that can provide programs, support, guidance, and resources. Qualified addiction specialists can provide treatment options such as medications, counseling, and residential or outpatient programs.
It is important to get rid of any unused fentanyl in your possession and avoid places where fentanyl might be present. Lastly, be aware of the signs and symptoms of an overdose so you can act quickly if necessary.
Growing Prevalence of Fentanyl Abuse
It is no secret that the growing prevalence of non-medical use of this powerful drug is a major concern in the United States. It has become increasingly popular among those seeking a strong and fast-acting high. Like other addictive drugs, addiction to fentanyl has become a serious problem.
The risk of overdose and death from fentanyl is very high – even small doses can be fatal. The drug is often mixed with other substances, such as heroin or cocaine, which increases the risk of adverse health effects. As a result, there has been an increase in the number of fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths in recent years.
In Louisiana, Contact a Baton Rouge Addiction Treatment Center
If you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction to Fentanyl, contact Serenity Treatment Center for help. We provide programs and services for overcoming addiction. We have residential and outpatient services. Contact us by calling us at (225) 361-0899 or filling out our online form.
