In recent years, a dangerous trend has emerged in the world of illegal drugs: the use of fentanyl as a deadly additive. Fentanyl, is a powerful painkiller that’s up to 100 times stronger than morphine.
While it has legitimate medical uses, its potency has also made it attractive to drug dealers looking to increase the strength of their products. This practice of lacing drugs with fentanyl has led to a sharp rise in overdose deaths, prompting concerns among health officials and law enforcement agencies worldwide.
It’s crucial to delve into why this is happening and understand the risks associated with fentanyl-laced drugs. So, why are drugs laced with fentanyl? Let’s explore the answers to this pressing question.
What is Fentanyl?
Do you know where fentanyl comes from and is fentanyl an opioid? Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid, which means it’s created in a laboratory rather than extracted from plants like opium. Fentanyl is originally developed for medical use. It’s primarily prescribed to manage severe pain, especially for patients undergoing surgery or those with advanced cancer pain.
However, its potency sets it apart, making it one of the strongest opioids available. Here’s what you need to know:
- Synthetic Origin: So, how is fentanyl made? Unlike opioids derived from opium poppies, such as morphine or heroin, fentanyl is entirely synthetic. This means it’s produced through chemical synthesis in a laboratory, allowing for precise control over its properties and potency.
- Potency: Fentanyl pills is exceptionally potent. In fact, it’s estimated to be roughly 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and significantly stronger than heroin. Unfortunately, it can be very easy to reach the fatal dose of fentanyl. Even a small fentanyl dosage can have a powerful effect on the body, making it both effective for pain relief and dangerous if misused.
- Medical Uses: Why do people take fentanyl and is fentanyl legal? Fentanyl is typically reserved for managing severe pain that’s not adequately controlled by other opioids because of its potency. It’s commonly used in medical settings such as hospitals, surgical centers, and hospices to provide pain relief to patients undergoing procedures or experiencing intense pain from conditions like cancer.
- Administration: Fentanyl can be administered in various forms, including patches, lozenges, injections, and nasal sprays. The method of administration depends on factors such as the patient’s condition, the severity of their pain, and their individual response to the medication.
- Risks and Side Effects: Like all opioids, fentanyl carries risks, especially when used improperly or without medical supervision. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, and respiratory depression. Additionally, misuse or overdose can lead to more severe effects, including respiratory arrest and fentanyl death.
For individuals struggling with addiction to fentanyl or other substances, seeking professional help is crucial. Inpatient rehab centers offer comprehensive treatment programs in a residential setting, providing round-the-clock care and support for individuals on their journey to recovery.
The Risks of Fentanyl
Fentanyl’s potency comes with significant risks, especially when it’s misused or used without proper medical supervision. Understanding these risks is crucial for anyone who may encounter fentanyl, whether in a medical setting or on the illicit drug market. Here’s what you need to know:
- Lethal Overdose: Perhaps the most alarming risk associated with fentanyl is its potential to cause a lethal overdose, even in small doses. Because it’s so potent, a tiny amount of fentanyl can overwhelm the body’s opioid receptors, leading to respiratory depression, coma, and death. This risk is particularly high when fentanyl is used illicitly or when individuals unknowingly consume drugs laced with fentanyl. It’s estimated that as little as 2 milligrams can be the lethal dose of fentanyl. For individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction, detoxification is often the first step toward recovery. Fentanyl detox involves safely managing withdrawal symptoms as the body adjusts to the absence of the drug.
- Unpredictable Strength: Another danger of fentanyl is its unpredictable strength. Street drugs laced with fentanyl may contain varying amounts of the drug, making it challenging for users to gauge their dose accurately. This variability increases the risk of overdose, as individuals may inadvertently consume a higher concentration of fentanyl than they realize.
- Addiction and Dependence: Like other opioids, fentanyl has the potential to cause addiction and dependence with prolonged use. Individuals who misuse fentanyl may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. This cycle of increasing dosage can quickly spiral out of control, leading to addiction and all its associated consequences. Our inpatient rehab in Los Angeles can help you or anyone you know who is struggling with fentanyl addiction.
- Respiratory Depression: Fentanyl suppresses the respiratory system, slowing down breathing rates. In cases of overdose, this effect can be particularly dangerous, potentially leading to respiratory arrest and death. Even at therapeutic doses, fentanyl can cause respiratory depression, especially in individuals with underlying respiratory conditions or when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
- Accidental Exposure: Fentanyl poses a risk not only to those who intentionally use it but also to others who may be accidentally exposed. Healthcare workers, law enforcement personnel, and even bystanders can be at risk of fentanyl exposure, especially in situations where the drug is present in powder form or as a residue on surfaces.
- Addiction and Dependence: Like other opioids, fentanyl carries a high risk of addiction and dependence with prolonged use. Individuals who misuse fentanyl may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. Our addiction treatment center can provide the support and resources needed to overcome fentanyl addiction and achieve long-term recovery.
Why Are Drugs Laced with Fentanyl?
The practice of lacing drugs with fentanyl has become increasingly prevalent in the illicit drug market, raising concerns among health officials and law enforcement agencies alike. Understanding the motivations behind this dangerous trend is essential for addressing its consequences effectively. Here are some key reasons why drugs are often laced with Fentanyl:
- Increased Potency: Fentanyl’s potency makes it a desirable additive for drug dealers seeking to enhance the effects of their products. By lacing drugs like heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit prescription pills with fentanyl, dealers can create a more potent and potentially more addictive product, thereby increasing demand and customer loyalty. For those battling addiction to fentanyl-laced drugs or any other substances, reaching out to drug rehab centers is crucial. They have a myriad of tailored regimens meticulously crafted to guide individuals along their path to healing and renewal.
- Profit Motives: Beyond simply stretching their supply, dealers may also stand to profit from the addictive properties of fentanyl. Because of its potency, fentanyl-laced drugs can quickly lead to physical dependence and addiction in users. This can result in repeat business for dealers as individuals become hooked on the potent combination and seek out more of the drug to satisfy their cravings.
- Market Demand: Ultimately, the demand for fentanyl-laced drugs is driven by consumer preferences and market dynamics. Individuals seeking drugs may unknowingly purchase products laced with fentanyl due to its prevalence in the illicit drug supply chain. Additionally, some users may actively seek out Fentanyl-laced drugs for their perceived potency and intensity of effects.
For individuals struggling with addiction to fentanyl or other substances, seeking professional help is crucial. Los Angeles rehab center offers evidence-based treatment programs designed to support individuals on their journey to recovery.
Do You Need Help with Fentanyl Addiction? Call LA Wellness Home Today!
Fentanyl can cause more harm than good when abused. We’ve discussed above some of the risks and consequences that you might face when you consume it in doses higher than the recommended values.
For those struggling with addiction, LA Wellness Home offers treatment programs to support recovery. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services.
