Did you know that fentanyl, inarguably one of the deadliest components of the Opioid Crisis, was designed to help patients? Originally, doctors administered this potent medication to men and women who were suffering from unimaginable pain, typically the kind experienced after surgery or during cancer treatment. How unfortunate has the situation become, when a helpful medication has become a proponent of addiction and death? Needless to say, we could place that blame on all opioids, but fentanyl, besides heroin and oxycodone, holds a unique rank of infamy in our country. Let’s take a closer look at the deadly secrets of street fentanyl.
Half of Opioid Deaths
So how much destruction has fentanyl carved into our country? Consider the fact that, out of the 42,000 overdose-related deaths that took place in 2016, about 50% (19,000 deaths) were triggered by this deadly opioid. Ultimately, the danger lies in its potency. Fentanyl is roughly 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, a naturally-occurring opioid, so imagine what damage it can inflict on someone who doesn’t need to alleviate any excruciating pain.
I Found It on the Street
However, that is not the only reason fentanyl is so dangerous. The other reason is drug dealers’ schemes. Street drugs, like cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fake prescription drugs, are cut with this powerful opioid. In the end, the dealers don’t spend a boatload of cash on manufacturing drugs and can ensure their customers stick around. Being more potent than morphine, fentanyl guarantees that consumers will keep coming back.
Many times, the addicts don’t intend to overdose. In fact, people who consume heroin will most likely not know they are injecting a spiked mixture. Likewise, people who purchase fake prescription drugs off the street can die after consuming fentanyl-laced anti-depressants. Just ask Prince and Tom Petty, two singers who tragically died after unintentionally taking fentanyl.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
