The opioid crisis in the United States has been a significant public health issue for decades, and fentanyl addiction is one of its most pressing causes. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It has become increasingly popular due to its potency, availability, and relatively low cost. Unfortunately, the dangers of fentanyl addiction are severe and can have life-threatening results. There are also numerous other dangers associated with fentanyl consumption, such as contamination from non-fentanyl substances and the high risk of overdose, even in small dosages.
At Northpoint Omaha, our team strives to provide comprehensive treatment services for those experiencing fentanyl addiction. Our fentanyl rehab program offers evidence-based, individualized treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, support groups, family therapy, and relapse prevention skills development. These treatments may help individuals better manage their symptoms of withdrawal and learn to address the root causes of their addiction. For more information on our fentanyl rehab, contact us at 888.687.8014 today.
What Are the Dangers of Fentanyl?
So, why is fentanyl dangerous?
Overdose Risk
The dangers of fentanyl addiction are vast, and the most important is the high risk of overdose. Fentanyl’s potency means that even small doses can cause severe respiratory depression and death. In addition, users may not know the amount or strength of the drug they’re taking if they don’t trust their source.
Contamination
Since fentanyl can be mixed into other substances, such as cocaine or heroin, without being detected, users may take it unknowingly and unintentionally overdose. Fentanyl is many times more potent than other drugs it may be confused with, making the risk of overdose very high in cases of mistaken identity.
Physical and Mental Health Issues
In addition to its lethal overdose potential, fentanyl can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. Its powerful effects on the body can result in long-term organ damage from an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as respiratory depression, which can cause breathing difficulties for long periods of time.
Addiction
Fentanyl also carries a high risk for addiction due to its potent effects, meaning that users might take increasingly higher amounts in order to recreate the desired effects again.
Knowing the dangers of fentanyl addiction can help us better protect ourselves and the ones we love.
Signs of Fentanyl Addiction
Abusing fentanyl can have serious consequences, as its potency and high risk of addiction and overdose make it one of the most dangerous drugs available today. It is important to be aware of the signs of fentanyl use to prevent or address the problem before it becomes too serious.
The most common signs of fentanyl addiction include:
- Needing more fentanyl to achieve the same effects
- Experiencing strong cravings for fentanyl
- Taking higher doses than prescribed or taking it more often than prescribed
- Developing a tolerance to fentanyl and needing more to feel its effects
- Social isolation from family and friends
- Continuing use despite negative consequences
- Neglecting important activities due to drug use
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
It is also important to look out for physical symptoms associated with opioid abuse, such as sluggishness, loss of appetite, memory loss, shallow breathing, nausea, and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms in someone you know, it’s important to seek help right away because prolonged use may lead to permanent organ damage as well as overdose.
Reducing the Risk of Fentanyl Overdose at Northpoint Omaha
Fentanyl is a highly dangerous opioid that can cause severe harm and even death if used improperly. It’s important to be aware of the dangers associated with fentanyl use, which include addiction, accidental overdose, and more. Northpoint Omaha’s Fentanyl Rehab Program provides individuals struggling with substance abuse an opportunity to get help in addressing the underlying causes of their drug dependency while also learning how to avoid potential risks such as accidental overdoses from this powerful narcotic.
Call Northpoint Omaha Now
To learn more about our outpatient fentanyl rehab program, call 888.687.8014 or complete our online form. Doing so could save a life, possibly your own.