Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is a prescription drug used for treating severe pain from surgeries.
Also, doctors give fentanyl medication to people with chronic pain that develop tolerance to other opioid pain medications.
Doctors give fentanyl medication thru injections, patches, or lozenges. Illegal fentanyl is available on the streets and is created in a lab.
People with fentanyl addiction most likely will keep their addiction a secret. But with keen eyes and genuine concern for your loved one, even the unnoticeable will be easy to pick up.
7 Warning Signs of Heroin Addiction
If you feel your loved one has fentanyl abuse disorder but are uncertain, we listed here the seven warning signs of heroin addiction.
1. Behavioral Changes
Fentanyl is an extremely potent drug that leads to very noticeable changes in an individual’s behavior. Some behavioral changes include:
- Extreme lethargy
- Mood swings
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Engaging in dangerous behavior
- Neglecting own health and wellness
2. Psychological Changes
Aside from behavioral changes, fentanyl also affects the psychological aspect of a person. Fentanyl, like any opioid drug, binds itself with the opioid receptors in the brain which control pain sensitivity and emotions. Because fentanyl affects the brain psychological changes might happen like:
- Confusion
- Impaired judgment
- Disorientation
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Rapid mood swings
- Depression
- Hallucinations
3. Physical Changes
Physical signs of fentanyl use and addiction include:
- Labored or shallow breathing
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Convulsions
- Lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Pale skin
- Ulcers or sores in the mouth
- Sunken eyes
4. Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone is a frequent user of fentanyl, a missed dose can cause fentanyl withdrawal. Because the body is dependent on fentanyl, it cannot function normally without the drugs.
Fentanyl withdrawal symptoms include:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Flu-like symptoms
- Weakness
- Muscle aches and pains
- High blood pressure
- Elevated heart rate
- Upset stomach
5. Overdose
Fentanyl is an extremely potent opioid. When used in a larger dose, it can cause life-threatening consequences like an overdose.
Signs of an overdose include:
- Depressed breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- A faint pulse
- Loss of coordination
- Unconsciousness
6. A tendency to seek drugs
People with fentanyl abuse disorder will move mountains and rivers to support their addiction. They will try different doctors to acquire the drugs or even do an awful thing like stealing just to buy fentanyl.
7. Negative Life Outcomes
There are many consequences associated with fentanyl addiction, including financial hardships, loss of friends or family, job loss, and legal problems. But people with addiction will not see it until it is too late.
If you suspect your loved one to be addicted to heroin, Mallard Lake Detox Center is here to help.
We offer Fentanyl Detox Treatment and other treatments to help and guide your loved one to get back on track. We serve people near and around Houston, Texas.
If you have questions, our helpline is 24/7, call us today!