Fentanyl is an extremely potent drug, first synthesized in 1959 by Paul Janssen. Although it is used primarily as an anesthetic or for pain relief, it is often consumed recreationally with dangerous consequences. If you’re wondering if fentanyl is deadly, the answer is yes. For effective fentanyl addiction treatment for you or a loved one, reach out to Northpoint Seattle’s specialized fentanyl addiction treatment program in Washington.
Fentanyl can be injected, ingested, smoked, or snorted. As an illicit plain white powder, it is often sold as heroin or oxycodone to unsuspecting customers, leading to fatal complications and overdoses. To know more about how deadly fentanyl is and our fentanyl addiction treatment options, call us at 888.483.6031.
Is Fentanyl Deadly?
Fentanyl is one of the deadliest synthetic drugs. It is to be used in specific medical cases, such as for cancer patients or post-surgical pain relief, under the strict supervision of a doctor. However, many people illegally obtain fentanyl for recreational purposes, leading to addiction or overdose.
How Deadly Is Fentanyl?
If you’re wondering how deadly fentanyl is, here are some key facts:
- Fentanyl and similar drugs are responsible for the most drug overdose-related deaths in the United States
- Consuming fentanyl just once carries the risk of addiction and overdose
- Even a small dose of fentanyl, such as two milligrams, can be fatal
- It is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine
- When combined with alcohol or other drugs, the side effects are more adverse, and the risk of overdose multiplies
- A fentanyl overdose usually results in respiratory depression, and death can even occur in two minutes
Thus, not only is fentanyl deadly, it is often frequently misused. To cut costs and increase the chances of addiction, drug dealers may lace their drugs with fentanyl or even use fentanyl as a substitute. Since the shape, size, and smell remain the same, it is impossible to tell if the substance contains fentanyl. In case of an overdose, this can also delay correct treatment, resulting in the loss of life.
If someone you know is struggling with fentanyl addiction, arrange for medical intervention as early as possible. In case of an overdose, the person must be immediately hospitalized and administered naloxone.
What to Expect in Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Even though fentanyl is more potent than other drugs, it can be treated like any other substance use disorder.
A fentanyl addiction treatment program may include some or all of the following:
- Detox, to clear the body of toxins
- FDA-approved medications to ease the painful withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- One-on-one counseling to uncover the root causes of addiction and develop effective coping mechanisms
- Holistic therapies, such as yoga or exercise, to improve physical fitness and promote inner calm
With detox, medication, and personalized behavioral therapy, it is indeed possible to make a full recovery and commit to lifelong wellness and sobriety.
Get Help and Healing at Northpoint Seattle
At Northpoint Seattle, it is never too late to get help. Whether you’re struggling with a complex mental disorder such as schizophrenia or fentanyl addiction, our expert staff will get you back on your feet in no time.
We offer a variety of outpatient services, with flexible timings and personalized recovery plans, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care. As part of our dual diagnosis approach, we not only address the physical symptoms of addiction but also prioritize the patient’s emotional well-being. Using a mixture of medication, evidence-based therapies, and holistic practices, we guide our patients through every step of the recovery process.
A better and more beautiful life awaits you. Contact us at 888.483.6031 and commence your healing journey today.