Fentanyl
Overview

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid analgesic that is significantly more potent than morphine and is often used medically for severe pain management.

Its high potency, about 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, makes it effective in controlled medical settings but extremely dangerous when misused.

Even a tiny amount can cause a fatal overdose by rapidly depressing respiratory function, leading to respiratory failure.

Fentanyl’s potency and rapid onset increase the risk of accidental overdose, especially when mixed with other substances or consumed unknowingly in counterfeit pills.

This lethality makes fentanyl a significant contributor to the current opioid overdose crisis.

Recognizing the signs of fentanyl addiction can help in seeking timely intervention and treatment.

Here are some common indicators:

• Increased Tolerance: Higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects.
• Cravings: Intense desire or urge to use fentanyl.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or family obligations.
• Financial Problems: Spending excessive money on fentanyl leads to financial instability.
• Changes in Social Behavior: Isolating from friends and family or associating with a new group involved with drug use.
• Risky Behaviors: Engaging in dangerous activities to obtain or use fentanyl.
• Physical Symptoms: Drowsiness, pinpoint pupils, weight loss, and frequent flu-like symptoms.
• Psychological Symptoms: Anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Nausea, sweating, shaking, and agitation when not using fentanyl.
• Failed Attempts to Quit: Inability to stop using fentanyl despite wanting to quit.
• Secretive Behavior: Hiding drug use or lying about the frequency and amount of use.
• Paraphernalia: Presence of items like syringes, burnt spoons, or small plastic bags.

Recognizing the signs of a fentanyl overdose is critical for timely intervention and can save lives.

Here are some common indicators:

• Slow or Shallow Breathing: Breathing may become extremely slow, shallow, or stop entirely.
• Unresponsiveness: Inability to wake up or respond to stimuli.
• Pinpoint Pupils: Tiny, constricted pupils.
• Bluish Lips or Fingernails: Indicating a lack of oxygen.
• Weak Pulse: A weak, slow, or irregular pulse.
• Discolored Skin: Pale or clammy skin.
• Choking or Gurgling Sounds: Noisy breathing or sounds resembling choking.
• Loss of Consciousness: Falling into a deep state of unconsciousness or coma.
• Limp Body: The body may become very limp and floppy.
• Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting may occur.

If you suspect someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose, it is critical to seek emergency medical help immediately and administer naloxone if available.

If you suspect a loved one is using fentanyl, it’s important to approach the situation with care and support.

Start by educating yourself about fentanyl and its risks to understand better what your loved one is experiencing.

Have an open, non-judgmental conversation with them, expressing your concern for their well-being and willingness to help.

Please encourage them to seek professional help, such as contacting a healthcare provider or addiction specialist, and offer to assist in finding appropriate treatment options.

Ensure that naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, is readily available and that you know how to use it in case of an emergency.

Additionally, consider contacting support groups or counseling services for yourself and your loved one to navigate this challenging situation effectively.

If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, please reach out to us at Cornerstone Healing Center for a free and confidential assessment.

We provide fentanyl addiction treatment services, and a lot of time, your insurance will cover it!