The opioid epidemic has affected millions across the United States, with fentanyl being one of the most dangerous drugs causing overdoses. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and is prescribed for treating severe pain. Although fentanyl is used medically, there are many risks associated with its abuse. Call 888.292.9652 to speak with someone from the caring and compassionate team at BlueCrest Recovery about the dangers of fentanyl abuse and how our fentanyl rehab center can help you or your loved one overcome addiction.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid designed for pain relief in patients who suffer from chronic or severe pain, such as cancer patients. It is available in many forms, including patches, lozenges, nasal sprays, and injectables, and is more potent than morphine and heroin. However, fentanyl’s potency makes it highly addictive and can cause unconsciousness, respiratory arrest, and death in relatively small doses.
3 Fentanyl Dangers to Watch Out For
Fentanyl abuse can develop in many ways, but it’s commonly used by people struggling with addiction to other opioids, such as heroin or oxycontin. People who abuse fentanyl for non-medical reasons typically obtain it through illicit means, such as drug dealers or friends. Due to its potency, repeated fentanyl use can cause the following:
- Increased risk of overdose, which can be fatal. Even small doses of fentanyl can cause respiratory depression, leading to death.
- The risks of fentanyl abuse also include many side effects—such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, confusion, dizziness, and hallucinations.
- Fentanyl consumption is also known to raise the likelihood of the most severe drug addictions, thus leading to severe consequences such as long-term mental and physical health damage.
- However, the most crucial fentanyl warning relates to its potential for death by overdose.
What Are the Signs of Fentanyl Addiction?
Fentanyl addiction can be challenging to identify, but there are common signs and symptoms to look for. Some of these include an increased tolerance to fentanyl, withdrawal symptoms, obsessive thoughts about fentanyl, and a loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities. Other signs include isolating behavior, changes in mood or behavior, difficulty completing everyday tasks, and financial issues.
How Can Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Help?
Addiction recovery is a long road, but it’s also essential to reclaim your life. The first step to recovery is to seek help from addiction recovery professionals experienced in treating fentanyl addiction. Treatment options include:
- Detoxification – This involves a medically supervised process to help you safely remove toxins from your body.
- Outpatient treatment – This allows you to receive therapy and medical care while living at home or in a sober living facility.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – This combines medications with counseling and other therapies to treat opioid use disorder.
- Behavioral therapy or counseling – This helps build the skills and confidence needed to live a healthy, drug-free life.
- Alternative therapies – These can include yoga, meditation, and nutrition counseling.
Addiction treatment professionals provide the needed guidance and therapy that helps a person break out of the cycle of addiction.
Find Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in New Jersey at BlueCrest Recovery
Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous drugs in the world, and its abuse can cause serious harm to your health and well-being. It’s essential to seek addiction treatment if you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl addiction.
BlueCrest Recovery provides evidence-based addiction treatment services that help you break free from addiction and reclaim your life. With our compassionate and experienced addiction staff, you get personalized care that enables you to overcome every stage of addiction. Contact BlueCrest Recovery today at 888.292.9652 to learn more about the dangers of fentanyl abuse and how our rehab services can help you or your loved one overcome addiction.