Fentanyl is a highly addictive synthetic opioid that is commonly used to treat chronic and severe pain. It’s similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times stronger. Presently, it is believed that three million people in the United States are battling an addiction to opioids. Access the best interventions with us!
Here at Fresh Start Clinic, we believe that a key preventive strategy against substance abuse disorders is to raise the public’s awareness of them. This way, people will be better equipped to avoid them in the first place.
As experts in addiction treatment in Hamilton, Ontario, allow us to share common questions about fentanyl addiction in the hopes of shedding light on the matter:
- How do people use fentanyl?
As prescribed by a doctor, it can be administered as an injection, a patch applied to the patient’s skin, or lozenges taken like cough drops. The illegally used fentanyl most commonly related to recent overdoses is marketed illegally as a powder, blotter paper, eye droppers, nasal sprays, or tablets that resemble other prescription opioids. - How does fentanyl affect the brain?
It operates by attaching to opioid receptors in the body, which are present in parts of the brain that govern pain and emotions. Its effects include intense happiness, sleepiness, and nausea among others. - Can you overdose on fentanyl?
Yes. When this happens, the amount of oxygen that reaches the brain may decrease. This can result in a coma, lifelong brain damage, and even death.
If your loved one requires a comprehensive assessment in Ontario, please don’t hesitate to contact us.