Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse

by Admin on Tuesday February 14, 2017

Fentanyl Addiction:

Fentanyl is a very powerful synthetic opioid that is between 50 and 100 times more potent than morphine and oxycodone. It's a prescription drug that is typically used for severe pain management and treatment. Fentanyl is primarily taken in the form of a lozenge or candy (lollipops, mostly), though it can also be administered via injection or a transdermal patch. Fentanyl addiction has become a widespread epidemic in Grand Rapids and there are many signs and symptoms of fentanyl abuse that everyone should be aware of.

Fentanyl works by clinging to the body's opioid receptors, which are located in the area of the brain associated with our emotions. Because these receptors are blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain whilst increasing the brain's dopamine levels (better known as the "pleasure" chemical), this creates for a mellowing, euphoric high that can be extremely addictive and difficult to resist a craving for.

Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse:

Often sought out for illicit purposes due to its powerful pain-relieving and relaxing, euphoric effects, signs and symptoms of fentanyl abuse can lead to very unpleasant and extremely dangerous withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may include:

Swollen Extremities
Migraine Headaches
Slowed Heart Rate
Dizziness and Lightheadedness
Nausea and Vomiting
Dry Mouth
Severe Constipation
Drastic Weight Loss
Itching or Hives
Retention of Urination
Difficulty Breathing
Nightmares
Difficulty Sleeping
Excessive Sweating or Shaking

And more...

Fentanyl abuse can also drastically affect a user mentally, exhibiting symptoms such as: paranoia, depression, lack of motivation, confusion, delusions, hallucinations, and social withdrawal. In more serious cases, fentanyl abuse can lead to respiratory distress, coma, or death. These mental or behavioral changes can even aid in increasing the physiological signs and symptoms of fentanyl addiction.

Because fentanyl is a physician-prescribed medication, criminal acts are used to maintain or support fentanyl addiction, primarily through hospital, pharmacy, and nursing home thefts.

Fentanyl Abuse Epidemic:

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, there have been a reported 19 deaths associated with fentanyl abuse in Wayne County, MI just in the past 6 months alone. Because this number rises more and more each month, drug enforcement agencies and other Michigan health officials have announced that there is a nationwide effort to alert and educate the public on this dangerous drug.

Also known as heroin's lethal cousin, Fentanyl is still up to 50 times stronger than heroin and with a side-by-side comparison, the two "cousin drugs" look very similar. Because of this significant power ratio between the two drugs, even just a few micrograms of fentanyl can cause even the most seasoned heroin addicts to overdose and die. Every time a fentanyl abuser uses the drug, they are essentially playing a very dangerous game of Russian roulette – of which, the odds are superlatively against their favor.

Fentanyl Addiction Recovery:

Fentanyl addiction is no different than any other dangerous drug addiction that negatively affects the lives of the addict and their loved ones. Without utilizing the necessary tools, obtaining information, and receiving the right support, an addict cannot fully or properly recover.

If you or your loved one is suffering from fentanyl addiction, let the staff at Alcohol Drug Treatment Grand Rapids help you find a rehab facility that meets your needs.

You, along with all others suffering from the disease/effects of the disease, deserve a life of happiness, healthiness, and fulfillment. You don't have to do it alone. Call Alcohol Drug Treatment Grand Rapids at (616) 828–4790 now to begin your journey on achieving the life that you seek.

Resources:

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl

http://www.narconon.org/drug-abuse/fentanyl-signs-symptoms.html

http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2016/10/19_overdoses_prompt_warning_on.html

https://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/26/us/heroin-fentanyl.html?_r=0