Fentanyl is a human-made opioid that treats severe pain. It interacts with receptors in the brain to make a person feel extremely happy and relaxed. When used in a hospital setting, under the supervision of a doctor, fentanyl is usually safe. But when taken recreationally, fentanyl is a dangerous and addictive drug that can start you on a dark and destructive path.
Here are five important things to know about fentanyl.
1. Fentanyl is stronger than heroin and morphine.
Fentanyl is a Schedule II synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. A doctor may prescribe this drug to treat severe pain from advanced-stage cancer or nerve damage. Medical fentanyl comes in many different forms such as skin patches, lozenges, or injections.
2. Most fentanyl-related deaths are from illegally manufactured fentanyl.
From January 31, 2020, to January 31, 2021, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids (primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl) rose 55.6 percent and appear to be the driving factor for total drug overdose deaths. Even in small doses, fentanyl can be deadly. Today, well over 150 people die daily from overdoses related to synthetic opioids.
3. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs.
Another danger to fentanyl is that it’s commonly mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Because you can’t taste, smell or see fentanyl, it’s impossible to know how much you’re taking. Illegal drug manufacturers add fentanyl to other drugs because it makes them cheaper to produce, more powerful, and more addictive.
4. The opioid epidemic continues to change and worsen.
The nation’s drug overdose epidemic continues to worsen, largely because of fentanyl. In 2020, overdose deaths hit a historic high. In 2022 the American Medical Association continues to call on policymakers to increase access to evidence-based treatment centers and practice harm reduction measures, such as by equipping more people with naloxone.
And now, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will observe August 21, 2022, as National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.
5. It IS possible to treat an addiction to fentanyl.
Due to the addictive nature of fentanyl, it doesn’t take long to become dependent. And the longer you take this drug, the more problems it will create. To recover from a fentanyl addiction, you’ll need to go through detox and start a treatment program that includes evidence-based therapies and alternative therapies.
Start Treatment for a Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl is a highly potent and dangerous drug that is sweeping our nation and stealing lives. Don’t delay in getting yourself or a loved one treatment. Awakenings Treatment Center is a drug rehab in Agoura Hills that treats fentanyl addictions. We have a wide range of FDA-approved treatments and alternative therapies such as art therapy, neurofeedback, experiential trauma resolution, and 12-step facilitation groups. Contact us today to begin working on a full recovery for your mind, body, and spirit.
