The Hidden Dangers of Fentanyl: Life-Saving Facts Everyone Should Know

Paramedics at work

There are numerous substances out there that are major issues when it comes to addiction. However, some can be even worse when it comes to their life-threatening potential. One such substance that has been a significant problem, especially in the past decade, has been fentanyl. So, let’s take a closer look at what fentanyl is and life-saving facts to know about it.

What is Fentanyl?

The first question many people have is, what is fentanyl? Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is most commonly used to treat severe pain in those with chronic or post-surgical pain. It is one of the most powerful opioids available, which is why it is typically only prescribed in cases of severe pain. To put it in perspective, fentanyl is around 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.

Fentanyl Facts: The Dangers of Fentanyl

One of the most dangerous issues with fentanyl is that it is being produced illicitly on the streets. This has led to an epidemic of overdoses as a result of unregulated counterfeit pills and laced substances. Let’s take a look at some of the fentanyl facts that can help to portray how dangerous this drug can be.

  • We saw a slight decline in the number of synthetic opioid deaths from 2022 to 2023, but it has been on a significant rise over the past several years.
  • One kilogram of fentanyl distributed by traffickers has the potential to kill 500,000 people, according to the DEA.

So, while these are certainly not pleasant facts, they serve to illustrate how much of a problem fentanyl has been in recent times.

Fentanyl Overdose

The potency of fentanyl gives it a massive potential for overdose. Moreover, this is more likely when people are using counterfeit pills or unknowingly consuming fentanyl in laced substances. Fentanyl overdose can result in symptoms like:

  • Slow or no breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Disorientation
  • Sedation
  • Clammy skin
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pupillary constriction

In the event of these symptoms, emergency services should be contacted immediately. If those around the overdosing individual have Naloxone on hand, this can be administered as well to save the person’s life.

Naloxone is a medication that can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It does this by attaching to the opioid receptors to reverse and block the effects of opioids.

Seeking Addiction Treatment Before It’s Too Late

The best thing to do for fentanyl or opioid addiction is to seek help before it ever reaches the point of overdose. Of course, this isn’t always what happens, as sometimes it takes an overdose for an individual to realize they need help. Naloxone and other emergency services can help to save an individual’s life in that current moment. However, the overall solution is addiction treatment to help them achieve sobriety and prevent further incidences.

Narconon Suncoast: Your Path to Sobriety

Overcoming addiction can be a tough battle, but it becomes a more achievable goal with the right addiction treatment program, like Narconon Suncoast. Our incredible holistic treatment program has helped innumerable people take their lives back from addiction. To learn more about what people have to say about our program, check out the fantastic testimonials from our graduates.

Take the first steps toward overcoming addiction, and give us a call today. We look forward to helping you achieve sobriety.

AUTHOR
SS

Suncoast Staff

NARCONON SUNCOAST

DRUG EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION