Fentanyl is an opioid drug that is used to treat severe pain. It is a powerful and highly addictive drug that can cause incurable damage to the body and brain. Additionally, the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose can be fatal, so it is vital to be aware of the risks associated with this powerful opioid.
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is crucial to seek help immediately. At Atlanta Recovery Place, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by fentanyl addiction through education and dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment for growth and recovery.
Atlanta Recovery Place is a Georgia drug and alcohol rehab that can help you overcome addiction. Learn more about the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose by speaking with a treatment specialist at Atlanta Recovery Place today.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug that is used to treat severe pain. It is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more powerful than heroin, making it one of the most potent opioids on the market. It is usually prescribed in the form of a patch, lozenge, tablet, or liquid. However, fentanyl is a synthetic drug, meaning it can be created illegally and is often sold at the street level with no purity or refinement. Fentanyl is highly addictive and has a high potential for abuse and overdose.
When taken as prescribed by a doctor, fentanyl can help ease pain and improve quality of life. However, when it is misused or taken in large doses, it can lead to severe consequences. Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs or substances, such as heroin and cocaine, to increase its potency and effects. Combining substances is extremely dangerous and can lead to an overdose. Fentanyl was responsible for over 50% of all opioid-related deaths last year.
What Are the Risks Involved with Fentanyl Abuse?
When an individual abuses fentanyl, they will have impaired judgment, slowed breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. It can also interact with other drugs and substances, such as alcohol and marijuana, making it even more dangerous. Mixing fentanyl with other drugs or substances increases the risk of overdose and can lead to serious health complications like seizures, coma, and death.
The long-term risks of fentanyl abuse include physical and psychological dependence, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Long-term abuse can also lead to liver and kidney damage, respiratory depression, and impaired cognitive functioning. In addition, abuse of fentanyl can lead to an increased risk of accidents and injuries due to impaired motor skills and judgment. It can also lead to an increased risk of mental health problems like depression and anxiety.
What Are the Symptoms of a Fentanyl Overdose?
The symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, loss of consciousness, clammy skin, confusion, dizziness, and loss of coordination. A person experiencing a fentanyl overdose may also experience seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, and even death.
Naloxone (Narcan) is a medication meant to reverse the effects of opioids on the body and is used in the event of an opioid overdose, like a fentanyl overdose. However, due to fentanyl’s power, individuals may need multiple doses or not respond to the medication.
What Treatments Are Available for Fentanyl Addiction?
Treatment for fentanyl addiction typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medication-Assisted Treatment provides medications, such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone, to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making the detoxification process safer and more manageable.
Therapy addresses the underlying causes of addiction and teaches coping skills and strategies for avoiding relapse. This can occur individually with a counselor or through group therapy sessions available through outpatient treatment centers or Narcotics Anonymous.
Atlanta Recovery Place Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Center
At Atlanta Recovery Place, we provide comprehensive treatment for fentanyl addiction. Our experienced team of addiction treatment specialists is dedicated to helping individuals and families struggling with fentanyl addiction make lifelong changes.
We offer a variety of evidence-based treatments, including medication-assisted treatment, psychotherapy, group therapy, and support groups. We aim to help individuals and families affected by fentanyl addiction find hope and healing. With our holistic approach to addiction treatment, our clients can achieve long-term sobriety and If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Georgia Addiction Recovery Center today.