Call: 844-222-8808
Call: 844-222-8808
About two-thirds of the over 108,000 drug overdose fatalities in 2021 featured fentanyl or another synthetic opioid. In 2020, almost 43,000 overdose deaths were from fentanyl. This synthetic opioid is commonly used for managing pain in cancer patients and those who have undergone surgery or cannot tolerate other types of pain medication. Unfortunately, the dangers of fentanyl are numerous and well-documented at this point. The drug has been linked to countless deaths over recent years. Public health organizations have issued warnings about its use as an anesthetic, painkiller, and even a street drug. As an illicit substance, these organizations are seeing this as an issue of national security and appealing Washington to bring immediate attention before any more people die. But what exactly is fentanyl? How do you recognize it, and what are some things you need to know if you think someone around you might be using it? Keep reading to find out more!
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid analgesic (an opioid drug that can reduce pain and induce feelings of relaxation, pleasure, and calmness) used as an anesthetic in surgical settings to relieve pain and can be used to treat chronic pain. It is a prescription drug that doctors prescribe to manage pain, and it comes in tablet, patch, and lozenge forms. Fentanyl is also used to manage breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are already prescribed opioids to manage their pain. Fentanyl is around 100 times stronger than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin. It is so strong that doctors recommend using the minimum dosage possible to manage pain, especially in cancer patients. The risk of overdose is very high as a small error in dosage, or even a tiny miscalculation, can have serious repercussions.
There are many dangers associated with fentanyl, including fatal overdoses, cancer, heart problems, and addiction.
There are a few different reasons why fentanyl is so dangerous. First, it is a synthetic drug that is produced in a lab. While synthetic drugs are often used to treat illnesses, they can also be very dangerous. When taken as prescribed, synthetic drugs can be highly effective, but they can also be tough to regulate, leading to dangerous overdoses. Second, fentanyl is a potent drug that only needs to be used in a small amount. The reason is that the strength of the medicine is so high. This means that doctors must prescribe minimal doses of fentanyl to avoid overdoses, and people who abuse fentanyl will need to use even less. Not being mindful of dosing makes it very easy to overdose, as even a tiny mistake could lead to death.
If you suspect a friend or loved one might abuse fentanyl, there are some warning signs to look out for. Here are some common symptoms of abuse and side effects of fentanyl user:
If you think someone around you is abusing fentanyl, you should always seek help. You can talk to a friend or loved one and let them know you care and want to help them through this. You can also contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or call their helpline at 1-800-662-HELP to find local resources or assistance. Wish Recovery is committed to delivering compassionate, comprehensive, luxury detox and rehabilitative support and services for opioid use disorder, many other substance use disorders, and dual diagnoses. You can contact us anytime to find out about treatment options and to verify insurance.
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