Fentanyl: Devastating Effects on the Human Body

Fentanyl: Beyond Euphoria: Understanding Its Side Effects

Reading time : 1 minute, Discovery Chepe Id-545-SAL
Published in 11-30-2024

Photo Myriam Zilles
Fentanyl, due to its extreme potency and ability to be synthesized in clandestine laboratories, comes in a variety of forms on the illicit drug market. These forms can vary by region and production method.

Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid that is used medically to relieve severe pain. However, its recreational use has increased significantly in recent years, leading to a global public health crisis.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. This means that a very small amount can have devastating effects on the human body.

#fentanyl https://t.co/zzoUgcxFka
— Ni.co.le (@speedybabsi) November 28, 2024

The Effects of Fentanyl: A Reality You Need to Know

Photo Altin Ferreira

How does fentanyl affect the body?
The effects of fentanyl can vary depending on the dose and individual tolerance, but generally include:

Short-term effects:
1-Euphoria: Feeling of extreme well-being.
2-Sedation: Drowsiness and decreased consciousness.
3-Slow breathing: Respiratory depression is one of the main causes of death from fentanyl overdose.
4-Nausea and Vomiting.
5-Confusion and disorientation.
6-Itching.
7-Constipation.

Long-term effects:
a) Addiction: Fentanyl is highly addictive and can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
b) Tolerance: With continued use, the body develops tolerance to fentanyl, requiring increasingly higher doses to achieve the same effect.
c) Withdrawal syndrome: When fentanyl is discontinued, severe withdrawal symptoms may be experienced, such as muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, and insomnia.
d) Organ damage: Long-term use of fentanyl can damage organs such as the heart, lungs, and liver.

Fentanyl Overdose Risks
Fentanyl overdose is a medical emergency that can be fatal. Signs of an overdose include:

1-Slow or shallow breathing.
2-Cold, clammy skin.
3-Pinpoint pupils.
4-Loss of consciousness.
5-Bluish discoloration of the lips or nails.

Prevention and Treatment
Prevention is the best way to combat the fentanyl crisis. Some preventative measures include:

a) Education: Educate yourself about the risks of fentanyl.
b) Addiction treatment: Seek professional help if you have a problem with fentanyl.
c) Access to overdose-reversal medications: Carry naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a fentanyl addiction, seek help immediately.