Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that, when prescribed, is used to treat severe pain. It’s one of the most potent opioids and is 100 times stronger than morphine. The drug binds to brain receptors responsible for controlling many sensations, including pain and pleasure.
In recent years, fentanyl-related deaths have increased significantly throughout the United States. The drug is commonly mixed with other drugs sold illegally, like cocaine or heroin, increasing potency and the risk of overdose.
If you or someone you love is battling a fentanyl addiction, many treatment options can help you achieve lifelong sobriety. On this page, we’ll explore an overview of fentanyl facts and statistics, learn about the short and long-term effects of fentanyl, find overdose information, and learn about addiction treatment.
Quick Fentanyl Facts and Statistics
Learn more about fentanyl by exploring these fentanyl facts and statistics:
- Fentanyl is fifty times stronger than heroin and one hundred times stronger than morphine.
- Powdered fentanyl looks similar to many other drugs. It’s commonly mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin, leading to unintentional use, addiction, and higher overdose risks.
- In the U.S., more than 150 people die from overdoses related to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids daily.
- When prescribed by a doctor, fentanyl also goes by brand names like Duragesic, Sublimaze, and Actiq.
The Short and Long-Term Effects of Fentanyl
Fentanyl affects everyone differently, and side effects can be more severe based on higher dosages or frequencies. However, some of the most common short and long-term effects of fentanyl use include the following:
| Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Effects |
|---|---|
| Dizziness and impaired balance | Constipation |
| Drowsiness and confusion | Hallucinations |
| Incoherent or slurred speech | Menstrual problems |
| Nausea and vomiting | Mood instability |
| Reduced appetite | Respiratory problems |
| Slow pulse and low blood pressure | Tolerance, requiring users to take higher doses to achieve the same effects |
| Weakness and fatigue | Worsening of co-occurring mental health disorders |
Overdose Information
Fentanyl is an incredibly dangerous drug with a high risk of overdose. Overdose can occur in as little as one use of fentanyl. In recent years, accidental fentanyl overdose occurs without a user knowing they are consuming the drug. The addition of fentanyl to other drugs is an illegal practice that is rarely disclosed to the end user. This practice can make other commonly used drugs cheaper, stronger, and more addictive; however, the end result can be deadly.
Here are some of the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose:
- Bluish complexion or lips
- Chest pain
- Coma
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Slow or labored breathing
- Death
If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing a fentanyl overdose, get help immediately. Overdoses can result in death. Go to your nearest emergency room or administer naloxone (Narcan), which can reverse the effects of opioids, including fentanyl. This drug is available over the counter or administered by healthcare professionals.
Fentanyl Test Strips
Fentanyl test strips are becoming more widely accessible due to the rising popularity of drugs being secretly laced with Fentanyl. Detecting traces of Fentanyl in other drugs can mean the difference between life and death. Consider utilizing test strips before use.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
If you or someone you care about is struggling with fentanyl addiction, there’s hope. At Buena Vista Recovery, we take a personalized approach to every patient in our care. We’ll help you get onto the road to recovery with a customized treatment plan, medically supervised detox and long-term support.
Fentanyl can be challenging to quit independently, and severe withdrawal symptoms can destroy even the strongest intentions. If you’re ready to escape an addiction or want to learn more about your options, contact Buena Vista today.
