The Dangers of Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid substance that is based on the natural morphine compound. Like other legal prescription opioids, fentanyl is used to manage extreme pain among patients who have developed tolerance to other opioids like oxycodone, morphine and hydrocodone among others. Legally prescribed and illegally acquired fentanyl is targeted by drug abusers because it offers a great sense of euphoria and relaxation. Unfortunately, its high potency makes it highly addictive. As such, daily use and misuse of this drug can easily lead to addiction. Fentanyl addiction is characterized by misuse and overuse of the drug where the user is unable to limit how often and how much to use it. Therefore, an addict will continue to use fentanyl despite the many health and social problems it may be causing.
Fentanyl addiction is deemed very dangerous because the drug is a high addictive and potent opioid as compared to heroin and morphine. The most severe and immediate danger associated with fentanyl addiction is the risk of overdose that can be fatal if not reversed on time. Other fentanyl addiction dangers include; risk of developing mental health problems, long term health complications that include infectious diseases, homelessness and incarceration. To avoid or alleviate such dangers, fentanyl addiction requires professional treatment and counselling as offered in our Savannah, Low Country SC, Ridgeland and Hilton Head rehab centers.
Mental and physical health complications associated with fentanyl addiction
Prolonged fentanyl abuse causes serious health and mental complications that affect all life aspects. Heavy and repeated use of the drug can damage the heart and lungs because opioids slow respiration. Note that, the risk increases when fentanyl is used together with depressants like sleep aids, alcohol and other types of opioids. Slowed respiration predisposes abusers to cessation of breathing when sleeping. Being highly potent, fentanyl poses an inordinate risk of overdose and instant death.
Other health complications include the risk of contracting infectious diseases like hepatitis B, C and HIV from sharing needles. Intravenous use of the drug may also cause serious bacterial infections and collapsed veins. Long term fentanyl use can damage organs like liver and kidney. In addition, fentanyl can cause mental illnesses like depression and anxiety disorders. Note that, an addict may have an underlying metal illness that is triggered by use of the drug.