Fentanyl abuse has become an increasingly concerning public health issue as the drug is more powerful than many opioids and, in recent years, has been the cause of opioid overdose more frequently. Whether you take the substance as medically prescribed or access it illicitly, it is vital that you understand the dangers of fentanyl so you can make an informed decision regarding your use.
Protect yourself and your loved ones from the growing dangers of fentanyl by reaching out for help at Right Step Hill Country. Our fentanyl rehab can help you overcome dependence on this potent opioid and reclaim your life. To learn more about our whole-person approach to recovery, give us a call at 1.844.675.1628, and one of our friendly staff members will get in touch shortly.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a very powerful opioid painkiller prescribed to manage severe pain, typically related to cancer, surgery, or injury. It is available only by prescription to help prevent misuse, but fentanyl is now showing up in many street drugs.
Know the Dangers of Fentanyl
Although fentanyl can be effective in managing intense pain, it also carries numerous risks. Here are some factors to consider:
Fentanyl Is More Potent Than Other Opioids
To truly understand how strong fentanyl is, it helps to compare it to other commonly used opioids. Fentanyl is approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. And it only takes a tiny dose to cause fatality: about two milligrams.
Fentanyl Is Added to Many Street Drugs
While you may not actively seek out fentanyl, you may be unknowingly consuming it when purchasing and using street drugs like heroin. Many illicit drugs are now being laced with fentanyl as it’s cheaper and helps increase profits.
Fentanyl Puts You at High Risk for Overdose
On top of unintentionally ingesting fentanyl through street drugs, you also have no idea how much fentanyl is in the product. As mentioned, it only takes a very small amount of fentanyl to lead to a lethal overdose.
How to Recognize the Signs of Fentanyl Use
Although illicit fentanyl use is typically more concerning than prescription use, it is still possible for a person to misuse their medication. Knowing how to spot the signs of fentanyl use can alert you to whether someone you care about might be heading toward addiction. The following are common signs of fentanyl use:
- Constricted pupils – This is also referred to as pinpoint pupils due to the small size of the pupils. You will notice this most in dim light when pupils usually contract or become larger. A person on fentanyl or another opioid will have pupils that remain small.
- Drowsiness and extreme fatigue – The person may fall asleep at inappropriate times or have difficulty remaining conscious.
- Confusion and disorientation – A person on fentanyl may appear incoherent and have trouble responding to questions.
- Slurred speech and impaired coordination – These signs can make the person appear intoxicated, but if they do not smell like alcohol, it is more likely they are under the influence of fentanyl or another opioid.
- Shallow or slowed breathing – Fentanyl can cause respiratory depression that can slow a person’s breathing to dangerously low levels.
If you observe these signs in someone, it is important to have an open and honest conversation with them about your concerns. However, if the person has a bluish tint to their skin, falls unconscious, or stops breathing, reach out for emergency medical help right away. These are signs of an opioid overdose and require immediate treatment.
Enroll in Fentanyl Rehab at Hill Country
Knowing the dangers of fentanyl use can serve as a strong deterrent; however, if someone is addicted to this drug, it can be challenging to quit despite knowing the risks. Talk to your loved ones about the risks of fentanyl and guide them toward the support they need to break free. Call Hill Country at 1.844.675.1628 to discuss treatment options for yourself or someone in your life, or you can contact us by submitting our online form.