Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid with a powerful analgesic effect. This is why it is often prescribed to terminal cancer patients. At the same time, fentanyl is a powerful drug. It is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. More than 80% of fatal overdoses in the United States are caused by the use of drugs containing fentanyl.
What are the dangers of fentanyl
Despite the absence of fentanyl in free sale, many clandestine laboratories synthesize this substance or its analogues in large quantities. This drug looks like a powder, the color of which can be from white to brown depending on its purity. It is consumed intravenously, by snorting, by smoking, by patch.
Effects on the body
Like any other drug, at first fentanyl gives the patient calmness, peace and happiness. The pain goes away, leaving only relaxation and joy.
After a few hours, the following side effects may occur:
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lethargy and drowsiness;
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nausea and vomiting;
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constipation;
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difficulty breathing;
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low blood pressure.
Fentanyl acts within 8-10 hours, so it quickly causes physical and psychological dependence. The patient has to use the drug several times a day, gradually increasing the dose. Dependence appears after the fourth intake.
The longer the duration of drug use, the more irreversible the consequences of its effect on the body. If timely rescue measures are not taken, the patient may die from overdose or withdrawal.
Overdose
Given the fact that fentanyl is a powerful drug, patients often get an overdose of the substance. This is usually due to the fact that other psychoactive drugs have been added to it. As a result, an addicted person may experience respiratory and cardiac arrest. Without timely help, death occurs within minutes.
Withdrawal syndrome
When voluntarily refusing to take fentanyl, the following withdrawal syndrome symptoms can be observed in just a few hours:
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onset of pain throughout the body;
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depressive or aggressive state;
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mood swings;
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insomnia;
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diarrhea or constipation;
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fluctuations in body temperature and blood pressure.
These symptoms may occur for 1-4 weeks after the last dose. Many patients continue to have a strong desire to return to fentanyl use for several years. This is why it is important to seek treatment for detoxification, therapy, and subsequent rehabilitation.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Compared to other types of opioid addiction, fentanyl addiction treatment is longer lasting. It is impossible to overcome cravings for this drug without qualified medical help.
Choosing a rehabilitation option
It is recommended to treat the disease in an inpatient facility. This applies especially to the first stages of the fight against addiction, when the craving for the drug is especially great, and therapy requires constant monitoring by specialists. After passing the acute phase, outpatient treatment is possible, which implies a clear fulfillment of doctors’ recommendations and active participation of the patient in rehabilitation.
The main stages of treatment
Basic techniques used to help fentanyl addicts:
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Detoxification program. It includes ridding the body of the drug with constant monitoring of vital parameters;
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Relief of withdrawal syndrome. It is carried out by replacing the drug with other drugs, relieving symptoms with painkillers, sedatives, anticonvulsants and other drugs. In overdoses, naltrexone may be used. This drug blocks opioid receptors and can save life with respiratory depression;
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Correction of the physical and mental state of the patient with the help of medications and vitamins;
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Rehabilitation psychotherapy.
Each of these stages is very important. But the hardest thing is to help a person solve internal problems that caused the development of addiction. It is impossible to completely cure drug addiction. A person will have to struggle with the desire to use a dose of a substance all his life. But experienced doctors and constant support can significantly reduce the craving for fentanyl and develop a special attitude towards themselves and their loved ones.
Preventive measures
Prevention of fentanyl addiction includes going through a rehabilitation program during periods of acute stress, creating a positive environment in the family and at work, creating new social connections with people who lead a healthy lifestyle.
