About Fentanyl
Originally a prescription pain reliever, Fentanyl is said to be the cause of death of Tom Petty and Prince. What was once considered to be one of the most difficult drugs to access, today clandestine labs have flooded the streets with this very strong, and highly lethal opioid.
What Is Fentanyl Exactly?
Fentanyl is an opioid pain reliever that is about 100 times stronger than Morphine. It is intended to relieve intense pain and most often prescribed to people who have certain types of cancer or disease or those who are terminally ill. Fentanyl blocks the brains’ pain receptors and increases the release of dopamine. This drug is very addictive and has a high risk of overdose if administered incorrectly. Because Fentanyl is being produced in illegal labs, it is possible for the makers to cut their costs by mixing it with other substances; usually heroin or other opiates/opioids. When this illegal Fentanyl is released onto the streets, the risks of something going wrong are extremely high.
Street Names
The street names for Fentanyl vary by location. Some of the more well known names include:
- China Girl
- Friend
- F
- Dance Fever
- Tango and Cash
- Goodfella
- Jackpot
Fentanyl is also commonly sold as heroin or Xanax because in many areas it is easier to get than other illicit drugs. This produces a significant problems for heroin users who believe they are purchasing heroin, but are instead buying Fentanyl – a drug much stronger.
Fentanyl Addiction
Anyone who uses Fentanyl is at risk for becoming addicted – regardless of whether or not they have been prescribed the drug. Due to the effects, which are similar to heroin, dealers have been known to mix it with other drugs as a means to retain customers. Sadly, this is exposing many people to the effects and risks of Fentanyl without their knowledge.
When this happens, it can be create a scenario that is difficult to break free from. Not only might a person experience significant withdrawals, they might not understand how to dose properly; thereby, increasing the number of opioid-related overdoses. This situation has presented a challenge to users who are often already struggling with an addiction, but also for first responders and medical clinics who might struggle to treat something they don’t know is present.
Global Statistics for Fentanyl Use
What was once mostly a problem in the United States and Canada has become a global epidemic. Countries like the U.K., Ireland, France, Greece. Russia, and Australia have noticed a surge in opioid use, overdoses, and deaths.
In Australia, opioid-related deaths rose from 439 in 2006 to 1,119 in 2016.
Most of the opioid-related deaths were related to prescription opioids such as Fentanyl.
Nearly 3 million Australians, or one eighth of the population are getting prescribed at least one opioid per year.
In 2017, 14 million prescriptions for opioids were written by Australian doctors.
Approximately one in ten people who are prescribed an opiate will become addicted.
There are 1.4 million Australians who have an addiction to opiates; most of these people were trying to relieve their pain.
In England and Wales, deaths due to Fentanyl increased by 29 % in 2017.
In the United States, opioid overdoses accounted for over 42,000 deaths in 2016.
The Effects of Fentanyl Use
Like other opioid painkillers, Fentanyl binds to areas in the brain that are responsible for controlling pain and emotion. The drug produces a heightened state of relaxation and euphoria, as well as drowsiness. The drug can also cause unpleasant effects including:
- Inability to concentrate
- Constricted pupils
- Sweating
- Weakness
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Slowed heartbeat
- Shallow breathing
- Irregular breathing
- Constipation
- Anxiety
- Fever
- Allergic reaction
Some people will hear about the effects and be tempted to try it. It is very important to understand that it is extremely easy to fatally overdose on this drug. A lethal dose of Fentanyl is just 2 milligrams, or one-tenth of the lethal dose of heroin. According to the centre for Disease Control in the U.S., Fentanyl accounts for 20,000 deaths in 2016. If you or someone you know has an addiction to this drug or another opiate/opioid, it is important you know what your Fentanyl treatment options are. Bear in mind, due to the seriousness of this addiction, anyone who has abused Fentanyl should get help at a rehab.
The Importance of Detox
In terms of your treatment options, a detoxification will almost certainly be necessary.
Regardless of why anyone begins to abuse the drug, doing so can expose them to considerable dangers, including death. Professional care that includes a detox at a treatment centre should be sought. When the body becomes dependant on the drug, and it no longer gets it, withdrawal symptoms including powerful cravings, cramping, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, irritation, and depression can result. These symptoms can be so severe that they make it very challenging to discontinue using. Even the most dedicated people, who are determined to quit may struggle without the support of a treatment centre.
At Siam Rehab, men and women who have thus far been incapable of discontinuing their Fentanyl abuse can begin their treatment with a safe, medically supervised detox. A Fentanyl detox will include the physiological process through which toxins, poisons, and other harmful substances will be eliminated from the body. The benefits of completing a Fentanyl detox at Siam Rehab include:
- We have a qualified addiction psychiatrist as medical director and head of treatment.
- You may receive medications and therapy during the detox to alleviate your discomfort, cravings, and other distressing symptoms.
- You will feel safe and supported from around the clock care.
- We provide a secure environment that ensures you will not have any access to drugs; thus, removing the possibility of an immediate relapse.
- We have a team of compassionate, highly educated professionals to guide you through the detox and rehab process.
Once the detox has been completed, you can begin residential rehab treatment which ensures a continuity of care, avoids the risk of a potential immediate relapse, and gives you the necessary tools and coping mechanisms that are crucial to establishing a long term recovery.
Treatment for a Fentanyl Addiction
Depending on the treatment options chosen, you may participate in a broad range of therapies. It is highly recommended that you do not treat a Fentanyl addiction on your own, without any medical supervision. By choosing the right detox and rehab centre, you can feel peace of mind in knowing medical solutions will be provided to manage the withdrawal symptoms and keep you safe from any unnecessary harm.
By going to a rehab, such as Siam Rehab, you can get your life back, find purpose, and safely recover from an addiction. To learn more about our Fentanyl rehab programme in Thailand, call Siam Rehab today.
Read about Carfentanil:
https://siamrehab.com/carfentanil-overdose/
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