According to the DEA (United States Drug Enforcement Administration), Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as an analgesic (pain relief) and anesthetic. It is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic.
Fentanyl patches, shots, and lozenges are used to treat severe pain from cancer, surgical recovery, or the drug is given to patients with chronic pain that other synthetic painkillers cannot treat. It was created to relieve pain but it has become a nightmare for the highly addictive synthetic opioid that continues to drive the overdose epidemic.
It’s important to notice that The Non-Medical Use of Fentanyl is affecting more people in the USA right now because of the availability for recreational use, and it is sold illegally in powdered or pill form. It’s also put in eye droppers and nasal sprays and can be mixed with other drugs without the user’s awareness.
Some important facts about fentanyl
Opioid Crisis: Fentanyl has become a major driver of the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, often produced in clandestine labs, has flooded the market, exacerbating the epidemic. It is cheaper to produce than other opioids, making it attractive to drug traffickers.
Overdose Deaths: Fentanyl has contributed to a rise in drug overdose deaths across the country. Due to its potency, even small amounts of fentanyl can be lethal. It is often mixed with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit prescription pills, without the user’s knowledge, leading to unintentional overdoses.
Synthetic Variants: Fentanyl is available in various synthetic forms, including carfentanil, which is even more potent and primarily used as a large animal tranquilizer. These potent variants further increase the risk of overdose and pose challenges for law enforcement and public health officials.
Vulnerable Populations: Individuals with a history of substance abuse, those using opioids for pain management, and those with limited access to addiction treatment and harm reduction resources are at higher risk.
Law Enforcement Efforts: Law enforcement agencies are actively working to combat the illicit fentanyl trade. They focus on targeting drug traffickers, seizing fentanyl shipments, and disrupting supply chains. However, the widespread availability and constantly evolving nature of fentanyl pose ongoing challenges.
Public Health: Public health agencies and organizations are addressing the fentanyl crisis through various strategies. These include expanding access to naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, promoting harm reduction measures like safe consumption sites and needle exchange programs, and increasing access to substance abuse treatment and recovery services.
Addiction to fentanyl
An addiction is a mental health disorder that is characterized by the compulsive use of a substance or activity that gives rewarding feelings, despite experiencing adverse consequences. Addiction is a complex condition influenced by both biological and environmental factors and is often considered to be a brain disease.
If you are currently suffering addiction to fentanyl, at Life and Therapy we want you to know that there is hope, that you’re not alone and it’s important to remember that many people battle with these issues every day and it is vital to get the support you need.
How to stop using fentanyl
Raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl is crucial. Efforts are being made to educate healthcare providers, individuals who use drugs, and the general public about the risks associated with fentanyl, recognizing its presence in counterfeit pills, and promoting safe drug use practices.
Our counselors at Life and Therapy are sharing some tips to helping with addictions:
Acknowledge the Problem: Recognize and acknowledge that you have a problem with fentanyl use. Acceptance is the first step towards seeking help and making positive changes.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: Reach out to a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or addiction specialist, who can assess your situation and guide you through the recovery process. They can provide medical advice, recommend appropriate treatment options, and help create a personalized plan.
Detoxification: Depending on the severity of your addiction, a medically supervised detoxification program may be recommended. This involves gradually reducing the fentanyl dosage under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure your safety.
Counseling and Therapy: Engage yourself with counseling sessions with therapists experienced in substance abuse treatment. These sessions will help you understand the underlying reasons for your drug use, develop coping mechanisms, and learn strategies for relapse prevention.
Support Systems: Surround yourself with a strong support network of family, friends, or support groups like Narcotics Anonymous. It’s always a good idea to share experiences and learning from others who have successfully overcome addiction can be invaluable during your journey to recovery.
Lifestyle Changes: Make positive changes in your daily routine and environment. This may involve avoiding triggers and situations associated with drug use, adopting healthy habits such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, and finding alternative activities or hobbies to occupy your time and focus.
Long-Term Aftercare: Recovery from fentanyl addiction is an ongoing process. It’s important to engage in long-term aftercare programs, such as continued therapy, counseling, or participation in support groups, to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.
Remember, everyone’s journey to recovery is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s crucial to seek professional guidance to develop a personalized plan that suits your specific needs and circumstances.
Counseling at Life and Therapy
At Life and Therapy, we’re here ready to walk this road with you! We apply harm-reduction, cognitive and behavioral strategies as well as relapse prevention techniques in a warm, caring environment. We also cover learning the common triggers to relapse and a self-guided approach to healthy living. Contact us today and let us be part of your new beginning!