The opioid epidemic in the United States is ongoing. Over the last couple of years, opioid addiction and prescription drug abuse have taken a turn. The extremely potent opioid fentanyl is becoming more prevalent in opioid deaths and addictions. But where does fentanyl come from? Why is it so addictive? What are the side effects? Let’s uncover some of the facts about fentanyl and notions surrounding this dangerous drug that should never be taken aside from its prescribed use under the care of a physician. At BrightView, our fentanyl rehab program can help you or someone you care about heal and recover.
Facts About Fentanyl: Where Does Fentanyl Come From?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pharmaceutical. The drug fentanyl is used as a pain reliever. Depending on the dosage, fentanyl can be up to 80 to 100 times stronger than morphine. The drug is primarily used in medical settings as a pain reliever. It is prescribed to treat severe pain, most commonly after surgery or as a cancer treatment. Fentanyl would also be used when other prescribed pain relievers are not managing acute flare-ups of pain. The drug comes in many different forms that would be prescribed based on a patient’s needs. Actiq is one form of fentanyl lozenge that looks similar to a lollipop. Duragesic is the medication in patch form. Other brand names of fentanyl include Sublimaze, Subsys, Abstral, and Lazanda. Despite requiring a prescription, this drug can slip into the wrong hands and is available on the streets. The following street names commonly reference fentanyl:
- China Girl
- China Town
- China White
- Dance Fever
- Goodfellas
- Great Bear
- He-Man
- Poison
- Tango & Cash
- Apache
Of course, street names for drugs constantly change. But being aware of these terms may help you understand what substance a friend, family member, colleague, or loved one is abusing. When it comes to fentanyl, even a small amount is dangerously addictive. Furthermore, it can be life-threatening when mixed with other medications, prescription drugs, or illicit drugs.
What Are The Side Effects Of Fentanyl?
Since fentanyl is a stronger prescription drug than other opioids like morphine, it can be highly addictive. Unfortunately, fentanyl abuse is a common opioid addiction. The drug gives a euphoric high to users when taken, but fentanyl use outside its intended prescription is highly dangerous. One of the most concerning and probable side effects of fentanyl addiction is opioid overdose, which can lead to death. Due to the high concentration of this potent opioid, taking it when not prescribed creates a high probability of fentanyl overdose. Other side effects may include, but are not limited to:
- Slowed Respiration
- Reduced Blood Pressure
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Dizziness
- Blurred Vision
- Constant Itching
The opiate crisis in the United States is serious and very real, and overdose deaths are too common. If you or a loved one may be addicted to painkillers or opioid drugs like fentanyl, morphine, or heroin, please seek help.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Fentanyl addiction treatment is similar to the treatment for other opioid addictions. How treatment is approached may vary depending on the kind of treatment center that you choose. At BrightView Treatment Centers, our outpatient treatment programs take a comprehensive approach to treating substance abuse and drug addiction. Our program has successfully treated fentanyl addiction and addiction to other prescription opioids through a combination of medication assisted treatment (MAT), individual counseling, and peer support groups. MAT has been proven successful in easing the effects of fentanyl withdrawal as opposed to a straight detox. When combined with counseling and meeting with peers, individuals have a greater chance of achieving long-term recovery. If you need help, contact us today at 888-501-9865 to discuss treatment options. BrightView offers drug treatment centers that take Medicaid and Medicare throughout the state of Ohio, so if payment is a concern, please know that there are options available that can help.