Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid similar to morphine, initially synthesized for extreme pain relief for those with chronic conditions or cancer. It is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for abuse and addiction. Have you ever wondered how potent Fentanyl is compared to heroin, though?
The risks associated with fentanyl addiction are potentially deadly and only increase when the addiction is left untreated. Residential treatment is one of the most effective ways to treat opioid addiction early on before it has a chance to spiral out of control. At CeDAR, our programs designed for residential addiction treatment in Aurora, CO, provide targeted care and support, which is essential for people struggling with addiction. For more information on how our residential addiction treatment programs help teach individuals the skills needed to heal from addiction, reach out to our team of experts today at 720.848.3000.
How Strong Is Fentanyl Compared to Heroin?
Fentanyl is an opioid drug often used in treating severe pain, such as cancer pain, and is also used as an anesthetic. Recently, it has become infamous for its role in the deadly and worsening opioid epidemic.
Fentanyl is actually a much more potent drug than heroin. It can be up to 100 times more powerful, meaning a minimal amount can be enough for an overdose. This makes it potentially much more dangerous, as it is easier to overdose on fentanyl than heroin.
However, what is worse is that many overdose deaths in the past few years have been attributed to drug users who have confused heroin with fentanyl. The same dose of heroin, when confused with fentanyl, can be way too much for the body to handle and lead to respiratory failure and, eventually, death. This makes it very important for anyone addicted to heroin to seek treatment as soon as possible before a case of mistaken identity turns out to be fatal.
Despite their differences, fentanyl and heroin do share some similarities. They are both opioids, meaning they act on the same receptors in the brain to produce their effects. They also both produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation and are incredibly addictive chemicals.
Risks of Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl is quickly becoming one of the most, if not the most, dangerous drugs in the world. Due to drug dealers using Fentanyl as a cheaper replacement for Heroin and other opioids, individuals who struggle with addiction have never been at a higher risk for accidental overdose.
Some of the principal risks of fentanyl abuse to be aware of include the following:
- Fentanyl is much more potent than heroin and can be lethal in tiny doses. The exact quantity of heroin in fentanyl runs a very high risk of overdose.
- Fentanyl abuse can quickly lead to addiction and dependence. All it takes is a single use of Fentanyl to become addicted to its potentially potent and dangerous effects.
- Fentanyl can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to death. Fentanyl can quickly and easily cause death by shutting down the body’s respiratory system, even with “small” doses.
- Fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, which increases the risk of accidental overdose. Cartels use fentanyl in drug mixtures to save money. If any drug you use is laced with fentanyl, the effects can be so strong that your body cannot cope.
The risks for fentanyl addiction are high and should be taken seriously. Reach out to the experts at an addiction treatment center to get help today.
Find Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in Colorado at CeDAR
The dangers of fentanyl are clear. The drug is immensely more potent than heroin and can lead to overdose quickly. For those who struggle with addiction, the chance of an unfortunate accident is one of the leading dangers they face. At CeDAR, we strive to support those struggling with addiction and increase access to treatment and education regarding the dangers of fentanyl. With concerted effort, we can progress in preventing overdose deaths related to fentanyl use.
For more information on how our staff of treatment professionals can help provide the tools necessary to achieve lasting recovery, contact CeDAR today at 720.848.3000.