Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, significantly more potent than heroin and morphine. It binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, particularly in the areas that control pain and emotions, leading to an intense release of dopamine. This surge of dopamine can create sensations of relaxation, and euphoria.

Fentanyl is used by doctors in highly controlled environments such as post surgery but is not generally available as a prescription. Fentanyl’s potency makes it exceptionally dangerous and highly addictive. Even a tiny amount can lead to overdose, making it one of the deadliest drugs in circulation.

Fentanyl can appear in various forms, including powder, spiked onto blotter paper, mixed with or substituted for heroin, or as counterfeit pills.

Fentanyl addiction can present itself in a variety of ways, with signs that may vary from person to person. Some common indicators include:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Pinpoint pupils
• Extreme drowsiness
• Neglect of personal hygiene
• Failure to meet family or work responsibilities
• Social withdrawal from family and friends
• Agitation, irritability, and frequent mood swings
• Theft or dishonesty towards loved ones

Not everyone will display all these symptoms, and their severity can vary depending on the duration and method of fentanyl use.

Short-term and potentially dangerous physical effects of fentanyl use include slowed breathing, nausea and vomiting, sedation, intense itching, and forgetfulness. Longer term fentanyl use can have a severe impact on a person’s health and over time can cause long lasting health issues like depression, insomnia, memory loss, poor circulation, and higher risk of infection.

The severity of these symptoms tends to get worse the longer fentanyl is abused. If a person builds up a tolerance to fentanyl, they’re at a higher risk for overdose. Fentanyl is a depressant, that means that overdose is very dangerous because it slows and can stop heart rate and breathing.

Habitual fentanyl use creates physical dependence. This leads to painful side effects when use suddenly stops, which is why many people who try to detox from fentanyl by themselves start using the drug again for relief from its withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal can include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Intense aches and pains
• Insomnia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Extreme sweating
• Restlessness
• Severe cravings
• Despair

These symptoms can begin to appear within hours of the last time fentanyl is used, and may continue for weeks or months afterwards. These symptoms can begin very soon after a person’s last fentanyl use and can range from uncomfortable to dangerous, making withdrawal difficult to go through all alone. That’s why it’s so important to seek help when trying to quit fentanyl. A team of trained addiction specialists will have the tools to help make withdrawal easier and safer.