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What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a very powerful medication, much more so than the opioids morphine and heroin. According to laboratory tests, the substance is 80-100 times as potent as morphine. Over the years, fentanyl’s potency has led to its transformation from a severe chronic pain medication to a widely accessible and often abused street narcotic. Paul Janssen of Janssen Pharmaceuticals is credited for synthesizing fentanyl in 1960. It relieves pain rapidly, but its effects wear off soon. Fentanyl users experience extreme sensations of happiness and relaxation, leading some to misuse the drug on a frequent basis in pursuit of those feelings. Fentanyl abuse has been linked to numerous side effects. Recognizing these side effects can be vital in recognizing a case of fentanyl abuse or addiction in a loved one and seeking the necessary help from a fentanyl rehab.
Side Effects of Fentanyl Abuse.
Fentanyl is a very potent synthetic opioid, frequently prescribed to patients with severe or persistent pain. The misuse of fentanyl, however, may have serious consequences. These side effects include:
- Respiratory depression.
Fentanyl’s ability to depress the central nervous system can result in slower or shallow breathing. Fentanyl can be deadly when mixed with other respiratory depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines or when taken in significant dosages.
As even a tiny dose of fentanyl may be fatal, it is considered a Schedule I drug of grave concern. Fatal levels of fentanyl in the body can be reached when the medication is taken alone or when it is mixed with other substances. Respiratory issues, excessive tiredness or confusion, and coma are all signs of a fentanyl overdose.
Fentanyl, like other opioids, is extremely addictive. Fentanyl abuse can lead to physical dependency, which manifests in withdrawal symptoms upon attempted discontinuation of use. Fentanyl addiction is very challenging and requires medical assistance.
- Cognitive impairment.
It’s important to note that fentanyl abuse is associated with tiredness, confusion, and cognitive impairment. This may affect a person’s ability to drive or operate heavy equipment and make it difficult to focus and concentrate on other duties.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Fentanyl has been linked to gastrointestinal discomfort, which may result in nausea and vomiting.
- Additional physical symptoms.
Fentanyl abuse may result in a variety of physical symptoms, such as a headache, dizziness, dry mouth, itchy skin, and constipation.
In summary, the effects of fentanyl abuse are dangerous, if not fatal. Professional assistance should be sought immediately if you or someone you know is battling fentanyl addiction or misuse.
The All-Inclusive Fentanyl Rehab Programs Offered at Skyward Treatment Center Can You Reclaim Your Former Self!
Serious, even fatal, side effects have been linked to fentanyl and other drug addictions. One piece of good news is that you can avoid getting to this stage by seeking help from a renowned fentanyl rehab center. Skyward Treatment Center in Houston, Texas, takes pride in offering the best fentanyl rehab programs in the region. Our programs are tailored to each patient’s needs, and the patients get to choose the level of comfort that best suits them. Call Skyward Treatment Center for additional information about our fentanyl treatment programs or to arrange for a free online evaluation.
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