Fentanyl abuse and addiction have claimed many lives over the last few years. This is one of the most dangerous drugs on the planet, and detox and rehab are highly recommended for recovery. Several people see it as just another opioid drug, but many do not realize that it is much more potent. Just a small amount of it can be lethal, and people routinely lose their lives as a result.
Fentanyl is extremely dangerous, and using this drug even once is like playing Russian roulette. If you or someone close to you is struggling with Fentanyl addition, it is time to seek professional substance abuse help. To learn more about how Northpoint Washington’s inpatient fentanyl addiction treatment program can get you started on the road to recovery, reach out to us at 888.450.2153 today
What Is Fentanyl and What Does It Treat?
Fentanyl is an opioid pain medication that is 100 times stronger than morphine. It is used primarily to treat breakthrough pain or pain that is not relieved with other medications. In most cases, doctors will prescribe different drugs before placing their patients on this powerful opioid. This is because it is very potent, and extreme care must be used when prescribed. This medication is a Schedule II controlled drug.
Fentanyl works by changing how the brain and nervous system respond to pain. It comes in many different forms, including a lozenge, a sublingual tablet, a film, patches, and buccal tablets. Patients are always instructed to use this medication according to their doctors’ directions. Misusing it, including taking more at one time, or taking it more often, can result in addiction or death.
For those with serious pain issues – such as cancer patients – Fentanyl can be very effective. It can take some time for doctors to get the dosage right, but the medication works well once they do. But people should never stay on this drug long-term. Doing so can result in an addiction, even if no abuse has occurred.
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction
It is possible to become addicted to – or at least dependent upon – Fentanyl after one use. Many people are addicted to it but do not realize it.
Several symptoms indicate that opioid addiction may be present. These include:
- Using the drug more often or longer than intended
- The inability to control one’s use or cut down
- Spending a lot of time obtaining the drug, using, or recovering from using
- Having a very strong desire to use; to the point of being unable to think about anything else
- Using even though it results in negative consequences, such as legal problems or social issues
- Using even though there may be risks involved, such as before driving a car
- Using the drug even though it is leading to mental or physical health problems
Forming a tolerance to the drug means it takes more of it to get high - Going through withdrawal when the drug wears off, or it is stopped