Fentanyl abuse has become a widespread problem in recent years. According to data from the CDC, fentanyl overdose deaths in the United States have increased more than 20-fold from 2011 to 2019.
Fentanyl. The latest narcotic to be added to the opioid epidemic. However, fentanyl isn’t like every other opioid. It’s more potent, it’s more addictive, and due to it being manufactured illegally, it can be found without a prescription. Fentanyl is tough to quit alone because withdrawal symptoms can be intense and even life-threatening.
If you are facing a fentanyl addiction, you may be feeling overwhelmed by all the emotions and challenges that come along with it. You’re not alone. In Colorado, tens of thousands of people struggle with some form of opioid or fentanyl addiction every year. But amid this difficult circumstance, good news can be found: help is available to those who seek it out.
With innovative and personalized treatment options available for therapy, and access to top-notch professionals specialized in treating addiction, it is possible to break free from the grasp of fentanyl abuse at Jaywalker in Carbondale, Colorado. You can find a better life for yourself in recovery.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. Although it’s a prescription drug, it’s also manufactured and used illegally.
Like morphine, this medicine is used to alleviate severe pain in patients, particularly after surgery, or for individuals with chronic illnesses like cancer. It’s also sometimes administered to patients with chronic pain who’ve developed tolerance to other opioids. Tolerance occurs when a higher and/or more frequent dosage of a drug is required to achieve the desired effects. Unfortunately, synthetic opioids like fentanyl are involved in the majority of drug overdose deaths in the United States.
Yes, fentanyl is highly addictive. Like other opioids, fentanyl binds to opioid receptors in the brain, causing a surge of dopamine, which produces a euphoric high. This immediate reward reinforces the behavior, making the user crave more and more. Additionally, frequent or long-term use of opioids like fentanyl can lead to physical dependence, where the body becomes accustomed to the drug and needs it to function normally.
The risk of addiction is especially high for those who misuse prescription fentanyl or use illicitly manufactured versions, which can vary wildly in potency and increase the risk of overdose. Fentanyl addiction can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention, treatment, and recovery programs.
Fentanyl abuse has become a widespread problem in recent years. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl overdose deaths in the United States have increased more than 20-fold from 2011 to 2019.
Sadly, from 2019 to 2020 overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids (excluding methadone) like fentanyl and its analogs rose by more than 56%. Shockingly, the number of overdose deaths attributed to these opioids in 2020 was over 18 times higher than in 2013. The tragic result was over 56,000 deaths from synthetic opioid overdoses in 2020. Even more concerning, preliminary data collection through June 2021 implies an increase in the rate of overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rise in the availability and use of fentanyl has contributed to the opioid epidemic in the U.S. and around the world.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that can be prescribed by a doctor as a shot, patch, or lozenge. However, illegally produced synthetic fentanyl is sold as a powder, applied to blotter paper, consumed through eye droppers and nasal sprays, or disguised as other prescription opioids.
Drug dealers sometimes mix fentanyl with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA to amplify the high and reduce costs. However, this can be extremely dangerous when users are unaware of fentanyl’s presence. By taking drugs that contain fentanyl, the users may ingest stronger opioids than their bodies are accustomed to, which can increase the likelihood of overdose.
Fentanyl addiction not only affects your health but also your social and financial well-being. This addiction, along with other opioids, is a serious national crisis that damages relationships and takes lives.
With over 150 overdose deaths daily in the U.S. (according to the CDC), it’s crucial to understand the short and long-term dangers of fentanyl addiction. Whether taken legally, illegally or shared, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive proper care. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Due to the strength and highly addictive nature of fentanyl, even short-term use can be extremely dangerous. Simply trying fentanyl once can cause life-threatening consequences. Fentanyl is an extremely addictive and hazardous drug. If you or anyone you know suffers from fentanyl abuse or addiction, they should consider seeking help immediately.
Several factors can contribute to an individual’s risk of developing fentanyl addiction. Below are some significant risk factors for fentanyl addiction:
People with a history of substance use disorders are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to fentanyl.
There may be an inherited risk for developing an addiction to drugs like fentanyl.
Individuals with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at a higher risk of developing an addiction to fentanyl.
Individuals who experience chronic pain may be more likely to develop an addiction to fentanyl if prescribed the medication for pain relief.
Many people have heard of Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous. Both are 12-step group meetings. NA is an important part of recovery for people who are addicted to Adderall. Peers lead group meetings. People share their stories, struggles, and learning experiences. Each new person has a sponsor who has been in recovery longer. Support and accountability are important for reducing relapse risks. Many people attend NA meetings for the rest of their lives after they complete Adderall addiction treatment.
People who have experienced trauma, have a history of abuse or neglect, lack social support, or live in areas with high drug use are at a higher risk for developing an addiction to fentanyl.
It is important to remember that addiction is a complex disease with multiple causes and contributing factors. Anyone can become addicted to drugs like fentanyl, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Here are some common signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction:
Physical symptoms:
Behavioral symptoms:
Psychological symptoms:
It is important to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person and may not necessarily indicate addiction on their own. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms in conjunction with fentanyl use, it may be a sign of addiction and professional help may be necessary.
If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl use disorder, attending addiction treatment will be necessary to overcome the illness. At Jaywalker, we offer unique, clinically based methods of treatment that are unlike other facilities.
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