November 17, 2022

Breakthrough Fentanyl Vaccine on the Horizon

A new vaccine for fentanyl is in the works, and it could be a life-saving breakthrough for those battling addiction to this deadly opioid.

Frame 1077241737Medically Reviewed by Dr. Fayz Yar Khan, MD FACP

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Susana Spiegel

Recovery Writer and Advocate

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RECOVERY WRITER & ADVOCATE

Susana is a dedicated mental health writer and advocate with over 8 years of experience in the field. She is passionate about sharing accurate and helpful information about mental health, addiction, and recovery. Susana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University and has over 7 years of professional experience working in the addiction recovery field. Her commitment to promoting mental health awareness and providing support to those in need is at the core of her work.

About the New Fentanyl Vaccine

The vaccine was developed by scientists at the University of Houston in Texas, and it is showing great promise in early trials. If approved by the FDA, it could provide much-needed help to those struggling with addiction to fentanyl and other opioids.

The University has been working on this vaccine for 5 years and hopes it will impact the opioid epidemic that seems only to worsen.

Researchers say this vaccine could protect people from accidentally consuming fentanyl, but it was designed specifically for those addicted who want to quit their usage.

These patients often end up at treatment centers as they struggle with relapsing into addiction or going through withdrawal symptoms when attempting to leave behind the drug.

Medical Innovation to Combat Fentanyl Misuse

This important news highlights one of many examples where we see how important medical innovation can be in fighting an ever-changing global crisis – here, researchers found a way vulnerable individuals might reduce risk factors by becoming vaccinated against deadly substances like fentanyl.

More Individuals Seeking Out Fentanyl Specifically

The University of Houston’s vaccine could not have come at a better time because more and more individuals are turning to fentanyl as an alternative to heroin. 

This powerful opioid has become increasingly popular due to its potency and relatively cheap cost, making it attractive to those with limited funds. 

However, many users are unaware of the dangers associated with fentanyl and could benefit from a vaccine to reduce their risks.

fentanyl-overdoses-1999-to-2020

The University also hopes that this vaccine could help reduce the number of opioid-related deaths in the U.S., which has been steadily increasing over the last few years due to fentanyl use.

Newer Versions of Fentanyl Coming onto the Scene

Unfortunately, new and more potent versions of fentanyl are coming onto the scene, including Tranq Dope, a scary mixture of fentanyl and a sedative used on horses. 

These substances can be even more dangerous and create more difficulty in reviving overdoses.

Early Fentanyl Vaccine Trials Show Promise

The University conducted a series of early trials to test the safety and efficacy of the new vaccine. 

The results showed promise, with the vaccine having a 90% success rate in preventing fentanyl from entering the user’s system. This is a promising sign, and researchers are now conducting larger trials to confirm these results.

Conclusion

The new fentanyl vaccine is an exciting development that could impact those struggling with addiction. Early trials have been promising, and the University of Houston is now working to conduct larger studies to confirm vaccine efficacy. With any luck, this breakthrough could soon provide much-needed help to those caught up in the grips of opioid addiction.

Get Help for Fentanyl Addiction

Cornerstone Healing Center is a Scottsdale, Arizona, fentanyl rehab. Let’s talk today if you’re ready to get help for fentanyl addiction. We can help you find the path to recovery.

If you know someone who needs help with a fentanyl addiction and you have questions about treatment, reach out to us today. 

Sources

[1] University of Houston

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