Fentanyl is a controlled substance that is sometimes prescribed to treat severe pain levels. Some people also use it recreationally or to self-medicate. It’s made from opioids, but it’s also much stronger than other commonly prescribed ones, like morphine or oxycodone. Although it can help people under a doctor’s orders, fentanyl is extremely addictive and easy to depend on. Some people sell fentanyl while pretending it’s oxycodone or another opioid on the street level. Fentanyl poisoning is more common than you may think, and it can be very dangerous and life-threatening. If you’re struggling with dependency, you should consider finding opioid addiction treatment.
Choosing Oceanfront Recovery for your addiction treatment needs means you’ll work with expert professionals to find the root of your substance abuse disorder and begin to heal. We offer many different treatment programs and therapy styles, including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR therapy, and family therapy. We’d love to help you find the approach that works best for you. Oceanfront Recovery strives to offer a treatment experience that keeps you safe and comfortable, from detox to aftercare. To learn more about our services or ask any other questions, contact us today by calling 877.296.7477.
The Dangers of Fentanyl
Overdosing on fentanyl is a primary danger of using the substance. Fentanyl poisoning can be very dangerous, and it’s not always easy to predict. If you buy street fentanyl, thinking it’s oxycodone, you’re likely to take a dose that would be appropriate for one substance and not for the other. This kind of overdose can be even more dangerous, as you don’t know what your body reacts to. Here are some common signs of fentanyl poisoning.
- Drowsiness or being unable to keep yourself from falling asleep
- Cold, clammy hands or skin
- Labored, snore-like breathing
- Unresponsiveness
- Decreased or slower heart rate
- Blue lips or fingertips
- Slowed or stopped breathing, which can lead to hypoxia, coma, or death
Other dangers of fentanyl include a myriad of side effects you may experience after using the drug. Common side effects include confusion, trouble concentrating, itching, sweating, and dry mouth. Several of these side effects are shared with other commonly abused painkillers. The rarer side effects, including dyskinesia, heart arrhythmia, kidney damage, and chest pain, can be more serious.
Painkiller Abuse and its Effects
The dangers of fentanyl use are very serious, but any kind of painkiller abuse comes with negative consequences. An addiction to painkillers of any kind can uproot and destroy the life of anyone. When you’re dependent on opioids, it’s easy to let other aspects of life slip by. For this reason, prescription painkiller abuse is associated with financial distress, job loss, legal trouble that can include arrests and jail time, and more.
Addiction also damages personal relationships and can contribute to or exacerbate mental illness. People who suffer from an addiction to painkillers are at higher risk for developing other substance abuse disorders and major depressive disorder. The toll that addiction can take on human life is not to be underestimated, but it’s also not the end of the road.
Get Addiction Treatment at Oceanfront Recovery
At Oceanfront Recovery, we love to see people find their path once again. You’ll feel secure and cared for with 24/7 specialist care in our drug and alcohol detox center if detoxification is needed. Then you’ll be able to complete a treatment plan that’s been customized to fit your individual needs. After completing that program, we offer excellent aftercare resources and services. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to painkillers or another substance, don’t wait. Contact us today by calling 877.296.7477 or completing our secure online form.
