Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. It is a prescription drug that is also made and used illegally. Like morphine, it is a medicine that is typically used to treat patients with severe pain, especially after surgery or during advanced stages of cancer. However, the illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is sold illegally, has become a significant contributor to the opioid epidemic, responsible for a sharp increase in overdose deaths in recent years.

Street Names for Fentanyl:

•Apache

•China White

•Dance Fever

•TNT

•Goodfella

How is Fentanyl Made?

Pharmaceutical fentanyl is made in regulated labs and is prescribed by healthcare professionals for legitimate medical purposes. Illegally made fentanyl, on the other hand, is often produced in clandestine labs without regulation, making it highly dangerous. It is frequently mixed with other drugs such as heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine, which increases the risk of overdose, as users may not be aware that fentanyl has been added to these substances.

Why is Fentanyl Dangerous?

Due to its extreme potency, even a tiny amount of fentanyl can be lethal. It works by binding to the body’s opioid receptors, which are located in the areas of the brain that control pain and emotions. While it can provide effective pain relief when prescribed by a doctor, when used illegally or in unregulated doses, fentanyl can cause severe respiratory depression, leading to overdose and death.

How Fentanyl is Used:

•Medical Use: As a prescription, fentanyl can come in the form of a transdermal patch, lozenges, or injectable.

•Illicit Use: Illegally made fentanyl is often found as a powder, on blotter paper, mixed with other substances, or as counterfeit pills that mimic other prescription opioids.

Effects of Fentanyl:

•Euphoria

•Drowsiness

•Nausea

•Confusion

•Sedation

•Respiratory depression or arrest

Fentanyl Overdose Symptoms:

•Slowed or stopped breathing

•Blue lips or nails

•Cold, clammy skin

•Unresponsiveness

•Coma

Fentanyl vs. Methamphetamine:

While fentanyl is an opioid used primarily for pain management or abused for its euphoric effects, methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful, highly addictive stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Unlike fentanyl, meth produces heightened energy, alertness, and euphoria but can lead to severe physical and mental health issues.

Recovery Syndicate understands that recovery from fentanyl addiction is a lifelong journey and offers ongoing support to clients as they transition back into their daily lives. The center provides aftercare planning and support services to help clients maintain their sobriety and continue their progress beyond their time in treatment.

If you, or someone you love is struggling with addiction please call Recovery Syndicate at 480-409-4787 or visit them at recoverysyndicate.com for help or more information.