Fentanyl addiction
Fentanyl addiction refers to a compulsive and uncontrollable pattern of drug abuse involving the potent synthetic opioid called fentanyl. Fentanyl is a highly potent pain medication that is typically prescribed for severe and chronic pain. However, it is also illegally manufactured and sold as a recreational drug due to its intense euphoric effects.
Fentanyl is significantly stronger than other opioids, such as morphine or heroin, making it particularly dangerous and associated with a high risk of addiction, overdose, and death. Due to its potency, even small amounts of fentanyl can lead to overdose or respiratory depression.
Signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction may include:
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Compulsive drug use: Feeling an intense and uncontrollable urge to use fentanyl, despite negative consequences and a desire to quit or cut back on use.
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Increased tolerance: Needing higher doses of fentanyl to achieve the desired effects or experiencing reduced effectiveness with the same amount of the drug.
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Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or reduce fentanyl use. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cold flashes, and intense drug cravings.
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Neglected responsibilities: Failing to fulfil personal, professional, or educational obligations due to fentanyl use. This can include poor work or school performance, absenteeism, and neglecting personal relationships.
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Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from social activities, hobbies, and relationships in favour of fentanyl use. Individuals may isolate themselves from loved ones and spend an increasing amount of time seeking, using, and recovering from the drug.
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Health issues: Experiencing a range of physical and mental health problems as a result of fentanyl use. These can include respiratory depression, overdose, impaired cognitive function, mood swings, depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric disorders.
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Financial difficulties: Experiencing financial problems due to spending a significant amount of money on acquiring fentanyl. Individuals may deplete their financial resources, accumulate debt, or engage in illegal activities to support their addiction.
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Failed attempts to quit: Making repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit or reduce fentanyl use, often due to the powerful hold that addiction has on the individual.
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is crucial to seek professional help. Addiction specialists, healthcare professionals, and addiction treatment centres can provide guidance, support, and appropriate treatment options to address fentanyl addiction. Overcoming fentanyl addiction often requires comprehensive treatment that includes medical supervision, detoxification, behavioural therapies, counselling, support groups, and aftercare planning. Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking help is the first step towards regaining control of your life and achieving long-term sobriety.
Help with Fentanyl addiction is very easy to get if you are talking Fentanyl. In fact you can get addicted to Fentanyl in 5 to 10 days when using daily. This is even if you are taking the dose the doctor told you to take. If you are taking more than your prescribed dose, then you are heading for trouble. It is very hard to stop the addictions as Fentanyl is a heavyweight opiate. This is a highly addictive painkiller. If you have got yourself in a bit of a mess with Fentanyl, get professional help now. It could save your life. Fentanyl abuse can be fatal. Always follow your doctors advice. This is not a drug to mess about with. As with all addictions. They will get worse without medical care.
What is Fentanyl addiction treatment?
Fentanyl addiction treatment involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction to fentanyl, a potent opioid painkiller. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly stronger than other opioids like morphine or heroin, and it carries a high risk of addiction and overdose. Here are some common components of fentanyl addiction treatment:
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Medical detoxification: The first step in fentanyl addiction treatment is often medical detoxification. This process involves the supervised withdrawal from fentanyl, with the use of medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure the individual’s safety and comfort. Medical professionals closely monitor the process and provide appropriate care.
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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Medications such as buprenorphine or methadone may be used as part of a medication-assisted treatment approach. These medications help to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and stabilise individuals in early recovery. MAT is often combined with counselling and therapy for comprehensive treatment.
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Behavioural therapies: Various behavioural therapies are used to address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop coping mechanisms and skills to overcome fentanyl addiction. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing are common approaches used to modify thoughts, behaviours, and attitudes related to drug use.
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Individual counselling: One-on-one counselling sessions with a therapist or counsellor provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore the underlying causes of their addiction, identify triggers and high-risk situations, and develop strategies for relapse prevention.
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Group therapy: Group therapy sessions, facilitated by a therapist or counsellor, offer a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, gain insights, and receive encouragement from others who are facing similar challenges. Group therapy provides a sense of community and fosters peer support.
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Family therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process can be helpful in repairing relationships, improving communication, and providing support to both the individual in treatment and their loved ones. Family therapy sessions address family dynamics, educate family members about addiction, and help develop healthy coping strategies.
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Support groups: Participating in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or other addiction recovery groups provides ongoing support, fellowship, and accountability. These groups offer a sense of community and provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others in recovery.
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Dual diagnosis treatment: Many individuals with fentanyl addiction may also have co-occurring mental health disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both the addiction and any underlying mental health conditions, ensuring comprehensive care.
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Aftercare planning: Developing a comprehensive aftercare plan is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery. Aftercare planning may involve continued therapy or counselling, participation in support groups, accessing community resources, and establishing a strong support network.
It is important to consult with healthcare professionals who specialise in addiction treatment to create an individualised treatment plan that addresses specific needs and circumstances. Fentanyl addiction treatment requires a holistic approach that combines medical interventions, therapy, and ongoing support to achieve sustained recovery.
How does Fentanyl Addiction Treatment Work?
Fentanyl addiction treatment typically involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. The specific treatment plan may vary depending on individual needs, the severity of addiction, and available resources. Here are some common components of fentanyl addiction treatment:
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Assessment and evaluation: The treatment process often begins with a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals who specialise in addiction. They will evaluate the extent of the addiction, assess physical and mental health, and identify any co-occurring disorders.
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Medical detoxification: For individuals with significant fentanyl dependence, a medically supervised detoxification process may be necessary. This helps manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure the safety and comfort of the individual during the withdrawal phase. Medications may be used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Medications such as buprenorphine or methadone may be used as part of a medication-assisted treatment approach. These medications help to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and stabilise individuals in early recovery. MAT is often combined with counselling and therapy for comprehensive treatment.
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Behavioural therapies: Various behavioural therapies are used to address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop coping mechanisms and skills to overcome fentanyl addiction. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing are common approaches used to modify thoughts, behaviours, and attitudes related to drug use.
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Individual counselling: One-on-one counselling sessions with a therapist or counsellor provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore the underlying causes of their addiction, identify triggers and high-risk situations, and develop strategies for relapse prevention.
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Group therapy: Group therapy sessions, facilitated by a therapist or counsellor, offer a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences, gain insights, and receive encouragement from others who are facing similar challenges. Group therapy provides a sense of community and fosters peer support.
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Family therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process can be helpful in repairing relationships, improving communication, and providing support to both the individual in treatment and their loved ones. Family therapy sessions address family dynamics, educate family members about addiction, and help develop healthy coping strategies.
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Support groups: Participating in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or other addiction recovery groups provides ongoing support, fellowship, and accountability. These groups offer a sense of community and provide a platform for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others in recovery.
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Dual diagnosis treatment: Many individuals with fentanyl addiction may also have co-occurring mental health disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both the addiction and any underlying mental health conditions, ensuring comprehensive care.
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Aftercare planning: Developing a comprehensive aftercare plan is crucial for maintaining long-term recovery. Aftercare planning may involve continued therapy or counselling, participation in support groups, accessing community resources, and establishing a strong support network.
It is important to work with healthcare professionals who specialise in addiction treatment to create a tailored treatment plan that suits individual needs. Fentanyl addiction treatment requires a multidimensional approach that combines medical interventions, therapy, support, and relapse prevention strategies. Recovery is a lifelong process, and ongoing support and aftercare are essential for maintaining sobriety and overall well-being.
How do I know if I need Fentanyl addiction help?
Recognising the need for help with fentanyl addiction can be challenging but crucial for your well-being and recovery. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the need for professional assistance:
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Compulsive drug use: If you find that you are unable to control or stop your fentanyl use, despite negative consequences such as health issues, relationship problems, or legal troubles, it may be a sign of addiction.
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Increased tolerance: Needing higher doses of fentanyl to achieve the desired effects as your body adapts to the drug. You may find that the same amount of fentanyl no longer produces the desired pain relief or euphoria.
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Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms when you try to reduce or stop using fentanyl. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, restlessness, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, and intense drug cravings.
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Neglected responsibilities: Failing to meet your obligations at work, school, or home due to fentanyl use. You may find that your performance suffers, you miss deadlines, or you neglect personal and professional responsibilities.
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Social withdrawal: Withdrawing from activities, hobbies, and relationships that were once important to you in order to prioritise fentanyl use. You may isolate yourself from loved ones and spend increasing amounts of time focused on obtaining and using the drug.
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Health issues: Experiencing physical and mental health problems as a result of fentanyl use. These can include respiratory problems, heart issues, gastrointestinal complications, memory problems, mood swings, depression, and anxiety.
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Financial difficulties: Facing financial problems due to spending a significant portion of your income on acquiring fentanyl. You may struggle to pay bills, accumulate debt, or engage in risky behaviours to obtain the drug.
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Failed attempts to quit: Making multiple unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back on fentanyl use on your own, despite a strong desire to do so.
If you identify with several of these signs or symptoms, it is highly recommended to seek professional help. Consulting with a healthcare professional, addiction specialist, or contacting a local addiction helpline can provide you with guidance, support, and appropriate resources to address your fentanyl addiction. Remember, reaching out for help is a courageous step towards recovery, and you do not have to face addiction alone.
Fentanyl addiction
Fentanyl addiction refers to a condition in which an individual becomes dependent on and struggles to control their use of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. Fentanyl is commonly prescribed for severe pain management, but it is also illegally manufactured and sold on the black market. Due to its potency, fentanyl carries a high risk of addiction, overdose, and fatality.
Here are some key points about fentanyl addiction:
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Addiction potential: Fentanyl is highly addictive due to its potency and rapid onset of effects. Even individuals who use fentanyl as prescribed can develop a dependence on the drug.
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Physical and psychological dependence: Fentanyl addiction involves both physical and psychological dependence. Physical dependence occurs as the body adapts to the presence of the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. Psychological dependence refers to the compulsive desire and cravings for fentanyl, often driven by the pleasurable effects it produces.
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Risk factors: Several factors can contribute to the development of fentanyl addiction, including a history of substance abuse, genetic predisposition, untreated mental health conditions, and environmental influences.
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Signs and symptoms: Signs of fentanyl addiction can include:
- Increasing tolerance to the drug, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or stop fentanyl use.
- Spending a significant amount of time and effort obtaining and using fentanyl.
- Neglecting responsibilities and activities due to fentanyl use.
- Experiencing relationship problems, financial difficulties, and legal issues related to fentanyl use.
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Dangers and overdose risk: Fentanyl is significantly more potent than other opioids, making it highly dangerous. Accidental overdose is a significant risk due to its potency, and combining fentanyl with other substances, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, further increases the risk.
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Treatment options: Treatment for fentanyl addiction often involves a combination of medical, psychological, and social interventions. Medical detoxification may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be used to help stabilise individuals in early recovery. Behavioural therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, and support groups, are essential for addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Developing a comprehensive aftercare plan is also crucial for long-term recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is important to seek professional help and support. Addiction specialists, healthcare professionals, and addiction treatment centres can provide guidance, treatment options, and resources to help individuals overcome fentanyl addiction and achieve lasting recovery.
Unmasking the Lethal Grip and Seeking Lifesaving Recovery
Introduction: Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has emerged as a grave threat in the realm of addiction. With its immense strength and devastating consequences, fentanyl addiction has claimed countless lives and devastated communities. This article aims to shed light on the dangers of fentanyl addiction, including its risks, effects, and available treatment options. By raising awareness, we hope to ignite compassion, understanding, and support for those grappling with fentanyl addiction.
Understanding Fentanyl Addiction: Fentanyl belongs to a class of opioids known for their powerful pain-relieving properties. As a synthetic opioid, it is significantly stronger than heroin or morphine, making it highly sought after by both legitimate users and those seeking an intense high. However, the potency of fentanyl presents a grave risk for addiction and overdose.
Fentanyl withdrawal
Fentanyl withdrawal refers to the set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when an individual who is dependent on fentanyl stops or significantly reduces their use of the drug. Withdrawal symptoms arise as the body adjusts to the absence of fentanyl, which it had become accustomed to.
The onset and duration of fentanyl withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the individual’s level of dependence, the amount and frequency of fentanyl use, and their overall health. Common withdrawal symptoms associated with fentanyl include:
- Physical symptoms:
- Muscle aches and pains
- Joint pain
- Restlessness
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sweating
- Chills
- Tremors or shaking
- Gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Dilated pupils
- Psychological symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- Cravings for fentanyl
Fentanyl withdrawal can be challenging, and it is strongly recommended to seek professional help and support to manage the process safely and effectively. Medically supervised detoxification is often the preferred approach to ensure the individual’s well-being and increase the likelihood of successful withdrawal management. Medical professionals can provide appropriate medications and closely monitor the individual’s vital signs and overall condition.
While the acute withdrawal symptoms typically peak within the first few days after the last use of fentanyl, some individuals may experience a more extended period of post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). PAWS can involve lingering psychological symptoms, such as mood swings, anxiety, and cravings, which can last for weeks or months.
To manage fentanyl withdrawal, healthcare professionals may employ the following strategies:
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Medications: Certain medications, such as clonidine, can help alleviate some physical symptoms, such as muscle aches, sweating, and restlessness. Other medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone, may be used as part of a medically assisted detoxification or long-term maintenance program to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
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Supportive care: Adequate rest, hydration, and nutrition are important during the withdrawal process. Supportive care can also involve over-the-counter pain relievers for muscle aches and non-addictive sleep aids to address insomnia.
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Psychosocial support: Counselling, therapy, and support groups can be beneficial in addressing the psychological symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal, providing coping strategies, and helping individuals develop relapse prevention skills.
It is crucial to seek professional guidance for fentanyl withdrawal, as sudden cessation of fentanyl without proper medical supervision can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Healthcare professionals can provide the necessary support, monitoring, and treatment to help individuals safely navigate through fentanyl withdrawal and move towards recovery.
Causes of Fentanyl Addiction:
Several factors contribute to the rise of fentanyl addiction:
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Prescription misuse: Fentanyl may be prescribed for severe chronic pain or used in hospital settings. However, individuals may misuse or divert prescription fentanyl, leading to addiction.
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Illicit fentanyl: The illicit production and distribution of fentanyl have surged in recent years, often mixed with other substances like heroin or cocaine, heightening the risk of addiction and overdose.
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Opioid tolerance: Individuals who have developed tolerance to other opioids may seek out fentanyl to achieve the desired effects, inadvertently exposing themselves to a higher risk of addiction.
Effects of Fentanyl Addiction:
Fentanyl addiction can have devastating consequences for individuals and their communities:
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Increased risk of overdose: Due to its potency, fentanyl greatly increases the risk of fatal overdoses. Even small amounts can suppress the respiratory system, leading to respiratory distress and potentially death.
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Physical and mental health deterioration: Fentanyl addiction can result in respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, hormonal imbalances, mental health disorders (such as depression and anxiety), cognitive impairments, and an overall decline in physical and mental well-being.
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Social and economic impact: Addiction to fentanyl often strains relationships, causes social isolation, financial instability, loss of employment, and legal troubles. The ripple effects extend to families, communities, and healthcare systems.
Treatment Options for Fentanyl Addiction:
Overcoming fentanyl addiction requires a comprehensive and individualised approach:
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Medically-assisted detoxification: Fentanyl withdrawal can be intense and challenging. Medically-supervised detoxification helps individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms while providing medical support and monitoring.
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Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Medications such as buprenorphine or methadone, when combined with counselling and support, can aid in reducing cravings, preventing relapse, and supporting long-term recovery.
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Behavioural therapies: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing have proven effective in addressing the psychological and behavioural aspects of addiction, helping individuals develop coping skills, and promoting lasting change.
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Support groups: Participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or fentanyl-specific groups can provide a sense of community, shared experiences, and ongoing support throughout the recovery journey.
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Holistic approaches: Complementary therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, exercise, and art therapy can support overall well-being, manage stress, and promote healing.
Fentanyl addiction represents a dire public health crisis, claiming lives and ravaging communities. Understanding the risks, effects, and available treatment options is crucial for individuals affected by fentanyl addiction and their support systems. By advocating for evidence-based treatment, raising awareness, and fostering compassion, we can save lives, promote recovery, and work towards a future where fentanyl addiction no longer holds such a deadly grip.
Why do hospitals use Fentanyl
In our hospitals in the UK, Fentanyl is used for server pain. It is also used a lot in Hospices for end of life patients with chronic pain conditions. It is a prescribed drug from your doctor.
Fentanyl mixing
Fentanyl gets mixed with Cocaine and heroin regularly. This can bring on an overdose when Heroin is injected. Other effects if taken with the following Alcohol, Benzos, Heroin, Cocaine, are depression, respiratory problems, drowsiness, and it can be lethal.
Drug dealers are commonly using Fentanyl as a mixer with Heroin and other drugs. If injected, this becomes very lethal.
Fentanyl – What does it do
Help with Fentanyl Addiction. Fentanyl is a man made drug, and meant to be used for pain relief for severe pain. In hospitals it can be mixed with other drugs. This will increase its strength. The pain relief on prescribed Fentanyl is normally around 2 hours. Fentanyl give pain relief for last 24 hours.
Fentanyl sadly, is commonly used as a recreational drug on the streets. This is a known be be going on worldwide. The drug dealers worldwide also mix their other drugs such as Heroin and Cocaine with Fentanyl to make more money. Some dealers are even mixing it with Cannabis resin to make it much more addictive.
Fentanyl is a Class A drug. The highest class in the UK.
Fentanyl Street Names – Fentanyl addiction
The street names for Fentanyl used by drug dealers and users who use it illegally are as follows: TNT, Serial Killer, China girl, Goodfella, Murder8, Jackpot and Apache.
Is Fentanyl strong
Yes, in fact it is very strong. The only painkiller we have stronger in this country is a drug called Carfentanil. Did you know Fentanyl is 50x stronger than street Heroin, and 100x
stronger than Morphine. So as you can imagine. If it is cut with other illegal drugs. It is very easy to overdose. Carfenyanil is 10,000 times stronger than Fentanyl. This is used for tranquillising elephants. It is a bit frightening that Fentanyl is so strong, and given out to patients who have no idea how strong it is.
Side effects of Fentanyl addiction
As with most drug, prescribed or not. There are side effects. With Fentanyl the side effects are as follows. Sleepiness, headaches (even through it is s pain killer), blurred vision, Urinary retention, Seeing things, dry mouth, Confusion and sweating. Mixing Fentanyl with other drugs or alcohol will bring on worst side effects, and can be fatal. Overdose is very common when Fentanyl is mixed with Heroin.
Withdrawal side effects – Fentanyl addiction
Side effects from withdrawing from Fentanyl can start just a few hours after taking your last dose. Here are the common side effects when you are withdrawing from Fentanyl. Sickness, upset stomach, sweating, headache, sickness, aches and pains, depression, cravings just too name a few.
If you are struggling with a Fentanyl addiction, call us now on 07811 606 606. We can help you.