When people heard that the iconic singer Prince died from a fentanyl overdose, their reactions were most likely a mixture of sadness and shock. However, many Americans were probably asking, “What is this drug called fentanyl, and how could it kill someone so easily?” The tragic death of this music legend probably kickstarted many of your introductions to this powerful opioid, which has continued to carve a path of death into our country. Fentanyl might help cancer patients and people recovering from surgery, but it has claimed just as many lives as it has helped. Here is a closer look at the tragic reality of this painkiller in the United States.
An Army of Heroin
So how strong is this drug that kills so many people? Doctors have confirmed it is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. In fact, this drug is only designed for patients suffering from unbelievable pain.
Likewise, when officials seize fentanyl shipments, they have to wear high-grade Hazmat suits. Any contact between skin and this drug can be fatal. Now, you might see why fentanyl-related overdose deaths have boosted from 2013 to 2014 in the United States.
Cutting the Cost
Ultimately, drug dealers will also use fentanyl to cut heroin, cocaine, or other street drugs. Not only is this painkiller extremely effective, ensuring a lasting customer database, but it is ridiculously cheap. Affordable manufacturing + addicted buyers = success for drug dealers.
Fake Medications
In the case of Prince, the singer took pills laced with fentanyl, another unfortunate case in the United States. Drug dealers are also selling fake drugs that contain bits of this painkiller. So, if unfortunate people like Prince and, most recently, Tom Petty purchase cheap “anti-depressants,” they get more than they bargained for.
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.
