Overdoses on fentanyl have claimed numerous lives for years. But according to recent research, this concerning pattern showed a tremendous increase in 2021.
This pandemic contributed to the increase in fentanyl users and death. Lockdowns and restrictions affected the mental health of every American. Increased anxiety disorders, depression, and other mental illnesses lead people to use opioids to ease their mental health illnesses.
Not only that, but studies show that 175 people die because of fentanyl overdoses alone.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used to manage severe pain, particularly the kind that results from surgery or cancer treatments. The pharmacological effects are comparable to morphine, although fentanyl is 50 to 100 times stronger.
This prescription medication is given intravenously, orally, or through a skin patch. Doctors keep an eye on its use because fentanyl overdose has the potential to be fatal.
Although fentanyl is a prescription medication, people who abuse this drug illegally source it underground and from the streets. This kind of fentanyl is made inside illegally made labs.
Most illegal dealers of fentanyl mix this with other drugs to produce a more potent high but at a cheaper price tag. Users with no idea that their sourced pills are a mixture of fentanyl and other substances might overdose and lead to death.
What are the Effects of Fentanyl?
Fentanyl works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain that regulate pain and emotions. When fentanyl and these receptors meet, discomfort and feelings are absent. Also, the brain will adapt that this drug is the only thing that can bring pleasure. Some of the effects of fentanyl include:
- Extreme Happiness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Sedation
- Difficulty Breathing
- Unconsciousness
Continuous use of fentanyl can cause body tolerance, so when it happens, the body will require you to take a higher dose to feel the effect of fentanyl.
It is harmful because fentanyl addiction starts from it.
Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms
A sudden stop in using fentanyl can cause a withdrawal, and these withdrawal symptoms can vary from mild to severe.
Here are the common withdrawal symptoms from fentanyl:
- Yawning
- Sweating
- Runny Nose
- Tearing Up
- Restlessness
- Chills
- Backache
- Joints and Muscle Pain
- Muscle Weakness
- Stomach Cramps
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Diarrhea
- Elevated Heart Rate
- Hypertension
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Pupil Dilation
Additionally, fentanyl withdrawal can cause hallucinations, mania, and extreme behavior. Without medical supervision, these symptoms are difficult to manage at home.
Fentanyl Detox in Dallas, Texas
Bouncing back from addiction can be extremely difficult, but it is possible. With the help of rehab centers like Mallard Lake Detox Center near Dallas, Texas, recovery is attainable.
We take pride in our scientific-based treatments like Fentanyl Detox Treatment. Aside from this, we have luxury accommodations that will help in achieving a faster recovery.
If you are decided and ready to take back your life from fentanyl abuse – talk to us today.