Fentanyl is a prescribed synthetic opioid pain reliever that is similar to other drugs like morphine and heroin. However, Fentanyl is stronger and potent.
Usually prescribed for those recovering from surgery or cancer treatment to deal with chronic and acute pain. The drug creates a euphoria and relaxes the person consuming it. It is very dangerous as it can quickly turn to addiction due to the power and potency. Therefore, a monitored Fentanyl detox programme is necessary for safe recovery.
Why Is Fentanyl Addictive?
Fentanyl is about 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. Fentanyl acts quickly, producing effects within minutes when administered through certain routes (e.g., injection, transdermal patches). This rapid onset of action increases its potential for abuse and addiction.
If you are worried that a loved one may be addicted to Fentanyl or has developed a dependence to prescription drugs, contact us for a free assessment.
While Fentanyl's physical dependency and psychological effects can lead anyone along the path of addiction, some people may be more at risk of experimenting with the drug in the first place.
The factors that increase addiction risk can be social, environmental and biological. People are more likely to develop an addiction if they’re vulnerable to multiple risks.
There has also been a strong theory that those who may have suffered from trauma at some point may be at increased reach of addiction.
Abuse of the drug, has the power to change the way you look, act and feel. Some of these signs are evident, while others may be hidden or occur gradually.
Addiction tends to get worse over time. If identified and treated early, it may be possible to avoid the major consequences of the disease. Spotting the early warning signs is crucial and can aid intervention.
Some of these signs include:
• Depression • Confusion • Poor balance and coordination • Dizziness, shaking and fainting • Nausea and vomiting • Trouble breathing or slowed breathing • Hallucinations, paranoia and delusions • Itching and scratching • Mood swings • Sleeping all day • Experiencing weight gain
Addiction creeps into every area of your life, leaving you with less time for loved ones and unable to meet responsibilities and work commitments.
Addicts are often tempted to increase the amount they take. Yet taken in high doses or combined with other sedative substances, such as alcohol, extreme sedation, respiratory failure or even coma can occur.
Recent statistics evidence that there is a rise in Fentanyl-related deaths and poisonings with many being concerned that there is a growing opioid epidemic in the UK.
