A synthetic drug called fentanyl has emerged as a driving force behind our nationwide opioid epidemic. Its potency and prevalence have made it one of the deadliest substances. Whether taken knowingly or unknowingly, fentanyl has caused a surge in overdoses and fatalities in communities coast to coast, leaving many people touched by this drug to wonder if fentanyl addiction is here to stay.
Why Is Fentanyl So Dangerous?
Fentanyl is approximately 100 times stronger than morphine. While it has a legitimate medical use for patients experiencing severe pain, illicitly manufactured fentanyl now dominates the black market. Because it is inexpensive to make, drug dealers often mix it with or disguise it as other substances, including heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit prescription pills.
Even a trace amount of fentanyl – equivalent to a few grains of salt – can cause a fatal overdose. The following factors compound its dangers.
- Resemblance to other drugs: Fentanyl can be nearly indistinguishable from legitimate prescription medications or recreational drugs. Some people who use these products never suspect they are consuming fentanyl unless they accidentally overdose.
- High overdose risk: As a central nervous system suppressant, fentanyl can cause rapid-onset respiratory distress. When people suddenly stop breathing, it leaves bystanders little time to administer lifesaving interventions like naloxone.
- Unpredictability: The lack of regulation in illicit drug manufacturing means doses are inconsistent, further increasing the risk of overdose.
Fentanyl’s Prevalence in the U.S.
Fentanyl is a significant driver of the ongoing opioid epidemic, which has devastated communities across the U.S. The epidemic initially began with the overprescription of opioid painkillers, eventually leading many people to switch to more accessible, affordable alternatives like heroin. Fentanyl has since flooded the illicit market, exacerbating the crisis by increasing the lethality of drug use.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fentanyl is a leading contributor to drug overdose deaths nationwide. Its prevalence has disproportionately affected younger populations, as many teens and young adults unknowingly ingest it in counterfeit pills designed to look like prescription medications such as Adderall, oxycodone, or Xanax.
Fentanyl Test Strips: A Tool for Prevention
One way to reduce the risk of accidental overdose is by using fentanyl test strips, a harm reduction tool that can detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs. These are available online and are simple to use.
First, dissolve a small sample of the drug in water and dip the test strip into the solution. If the strip detects fentanyl, an indicator line will appear. While test strips are not foolproof, they help many people make informed decisions and potentially avoid fatal overdoses.
Seeking Help for Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl’s widespread availability, extreme potency, and leading role in the opioid epidemic suggest it will remain a public health challenge for the foreseeable future. Combating fentanyl addiction requires a multifaceted and judgment-free approach, including comprehensive treatment services to help people break free from opioid dependence.
NEM Recovery provides compassionate, evidence-based care to support your goals. From medical detox to residential treatment, we will equip you with the tools you need to overcome addiction and build a healthier future. Connect with us today to learn more about our comfortable, homelike retreat.