What Is Fentanyl?

Someone prescribed pain medication may wonder what is fentanyl and how strong is it? This drug is a powerful opioid that is stronger than heroin or morphine. Therefore, most medical professionals do not prescribe it for long-term use. Most people take fentanyl to deal with short-term, painful conditions. Others take it after surgery to ease discomfort. Some doctors even prescribe it for people with terminal illnesses. Others may also take it after building a tolerance to other opiate medications.

What is Fentanyl Brand Names?

Fentanyl blocks pain receptors in a person’s brain. At the same time, it increases the production of dopamine, which is a happiness-inducing chemical. The many forms and brand names of fentanyl include:

• Abstral is a quick-dissolve tablet placed under the tongue and taken by opioid-tolerant people with cancer pain. This version of fentanyl provides immediate relief.
• Actiq is in lozenge form. It is also administered under the tongue for people who are already taking pain medications.
• Duragesic is a patch first introduced in the 1990s. People use it for moderate to severe pain. It offers relief for up to three days.
• Lazanda is a nasal spray most often used by people with cancer. These individuals use it the same as a nasal decongestant spray.
• Sublimaze is an injectable form of fentanyl that doctors use in hospitals before and after surgery.
• Subsys is also a breakthrough for cancer pain. Users spray it under the tongue for immediate relief.

Fentanyl also has several different street names such as dance fever, crush, Chinese girl and apache.

What is Fentanyl Addiction?

The neurochemical changes from taking fentanyl can impact a person’s central nervous system. Excess amounts of dopamine eventually alter the brain and cause the person to become dependent on the drug. They may turn to illegal ways of getting fentanyl after their prescription runs out. Developing tolerance causes the person to depend on fentanyl to feel normal. The only way to reach previous sensations is to take more of the drug. This can cause many reactions to having a strong need for this highly addictive drug. They may experience hallucinations, chest tightness, and abnormal thoughts.

What is Fentanyl Effects of Abuse?

There is a strong chance that a person will become addicted and abuse fentanyl when taken in any form. They experience a sense of relaxation and euphoria that is like heroin. Outwardly, a person may have seizures, headaches, and dizziness. Blurred vision, constipation and slowed breathing are other symptoms of fentanyl abuse. This a particularly dangerous situation for a person without tolerance to opioids. Fentanyl is an automatically elevated risk that multiplies for that person.

Regaining Control Over Your Life is Just a Phone Call Away

Addiction to fentanyl can be severe for a person to overcome. But, winning the struggle is possible. Ardu Recovery Center in Provo, Utah is here to help you through this challenging time. We offer programs and services that include:

• Holistic and medication-assisted detox
• Individual and group therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Mindfulness-based interventions

Contact Ardu Recovery Center to learn more about our fentanyl addiction treatment program. We can help you rise up and begin living the life you deserve.