Comprehending Fentanyl: Dangers, Misuse, and Recovery

Defining Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a laboratory-created opioid, engineered to be more potent than other opioids like heroin or morphine. It is typically prescribed for patients experiencing significant pain, especially following major surgeries. Although Fentanyl is legally prescribed in various cases, its potent and addictive nature has increasingly linked it to overdose fatalities in recent times.

The Institute for National Drug Abuse reports that in 2017, Fentanyl was involved in 59% of opioid-related fatalities, with its presence consistently rising since 2010. Illicit forms of Fentanyl, available as tablets, sprays, and powders, pose extreme risks.

Fentanyl's unpredictability and danger stem from its potency, being 50-100 times stronger than a standard morphine dose prescribed for pain relief. Due to its intense effects, similar to those of heroin, it is frequently traded in illegal markets.

Fentanyl, like other opioids, targets specific brain receptors that govern emotions and sensations, resulting in profound euphoria, pleasure, contentment, and pain relief. The combination of these effects and its addictive nature explains why Fentanyl is the leading cause of opioid-related fatalities today.

Fentanyl Misuse

Despite the well-documented risks associated with Fentanyl, it continues to be in high demand. It remains a substance frequently sought by individuals battling substance abuse and addiction.

Although often administered for cancer treatments and to alleviate severe postoperative pain, Fentanyl is still frequently misused. Common brand names such as Actiq, Sublimaze, and Duragesic do not appear overtly dangerous. Due to their resemblance to ordinary medications—pills, patches, and lozenges—Fentanyl prescriptions carry a high risk of accidental misuse, potentially leading to abuse and addiction.

Indicators of Fentanyl Misuse or Addiction

Regardless of the form Fentanyl takes, it is a potent substance that can lead to misuse if not handled cautiously. Addiction can rapidly develop, prompting individuals to seek more accessible sources, such as illegal markets, beyond what their doctor prescribed.

Illicit versions of Fentanyl are perilous as they are often mixed with other drugs, increasing health risks, particularly when multiple opioids and depressants are involved. Early adverse health effects of Fentanyl-containing drugs might include:

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Reduced breathing rate
• Seizures
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Itching
• Nausea or vomiting
• Decreased heart rate

The intense euphoria that Fentanyl and other opioids provide leads to a severe "come-down" post-use. This mood drop, coupled with the return of pain once numbed, makes Fentanyl notably addictive. Users may pursue more of the substance to achieve the same high and avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Such addiction extends beyond negative physical effects, impacting one's overall life quality and well-being. When acquiring Fentanyl becomes a daily focus, affecting goals, finances, and relationships, life can rapidly spiral downward. Those grappling with Fentanyl abuse or addiction often struggle to fulfill life responsibilities, leading to life deterioration. However, abuse and addiction are not insurmountable—recovery is always an option.

Recovery from Fentanyl Misuse and Addiction

Many individuals addicted to Fentanyl initially started using it under a doctor's prescription for pain. Despite the rapid onset of addiction, overcoming dependency is feasible within a supportive environment, especially if the individual still experiences physical pain.

Upon joining a treatment program or recovery center, individuals receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs and challenges. Detoxification is a common aspect required to overcome Fentanyl addiction.

Those addicted to Fentanyl require a professionally-supervised detox process. Withdrawal from Fentanyl and other opioids can be challenging and potentially life-threatening, necessitating medical professionals to oversee health and provide medications to manage pain, discomfort, and emotional instability.

In-patient treatment or stays in residential recovery centers are often essential, particularly for those in high-risk environments prone to exposure and relapse. Such facilities provide treatment for withdrawal symptoms, alongside group and individual therapy sessions.

Therapy is crucial for understanding the roots of addiction and addictive behaviors, while developing coping strategies to prevent relapse.

Many centers offer pain management treatments that do not rely on opioids, aiding those whose Fentanyl addiction is linked to chronic pain. Transitioning to non-opioid pain relievers helps manage chronic pain without supporting addictive tendencies. Treatment centers also adopt other physical therapies for chronic pain, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Acupuncture
• Other non-drug treatments as part of a comprehensive pain management plan

Fentanyl is a widely-used and circulated hazardous substance, making it crucial to understand its risks, symptoms, and treatment options. Seeking help is always possible, even when potent substances like opioids are involved.

For more information on starting your recovery journey at Impact Recovery, connect with a team member here.