What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a highly potent, synthetic medication which is commonly used for relief of severe pain. It was first produced in 1960 by pharmaceutical companies, but in the early 1990’s it began to gain notoriety as a street drug Fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine. Due to its potent and addictive nature, many people of different ages become victim fentanyl abuse and addiction. It is typically consumed via several methods, including pills, patches, and even lollipops. Fentanyl abuse and addiction affects not only those who are seeking to abuse the drug, but also those who have been prescribed the drug by a doctor for legitimate purposes. Currently, fentanyl addiction is an epidemic within the US, it takes countless lives on an annual basis.
What are the signs & symptoms?
It is widely observed that fentanyl is combined with other drugs like cocaine to increase the effect and health hazard at the same time. Fentanyl can alter the amount of dopamine in the brain and also changes the anatomy of the brain overtime which results in making one dependent on fentanyl. Some of the symptoms shown by fentanyl addicts include:
- Usage despite knowledge harmful consequences
- High and unstable level of blood pressure
- Depression and hallucinated vision
- Sudden collapses
- Tight muscles and diluted pupils
- Dizziness, poor speaking and impaired walking
- Reluctance in facing people
What are the effects?
When someone is a constant user of fentanyl and forms a long lasting relationship with it, then it is highly likely that the individual will face serious harmful effects. This may include, physical and mental effects, such as:
- Paranoia, seizures and problems in breathing
- Damaged immune system and delusions
- Coma, respiratory health issues and even death
What are the withdrawal symptoms & effects?
Fentanyl dependence can be formed very rapidly, and users tend to get thoroughly addicted which makes it tough to get away from the habit. However, when one stops using fentanyl, his brain and body start repairing all the damages which are done by the drug. The mind starts reorganizing itself to normality. On the way to stability from addiction, the patient might have to face certain sorts of withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Muscles & stomach cramps
- Pain in joints and body ache
- Nausea, irritation and insomnia
- Restlessness and diarrhea
Treatment
Clinical detox is often recommended for addicts in the early stages of Fentanyl withdrawal. Detox is used to diminish the severity of withdrawals as well as to observe the patient should any serious health concerns arise in the process. It is highly recommended that Fentanyl abusers attend residential treatment as well as an outpatient facility for extended care. All of these stages go hand in hand, one after another to bring the patient back to live a healthy drug-free life once again.