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What Is Fentanyl & Why Is It So Dangerous?

As time goes on and the opioid epidemic continues to affect those all around the country, we keep hearing more and more about Fentanyl. So what exactly is Fentanyl? Why is it so dangerous? Why are so many people overdosing from Fentanyl? Why is Fentanyl being added to illicit drugs? Today, Clear Horizons Healthcare, a local addiction clinic in Audubon, New Jersey will be providing some insight. Got additional questions? Interested in fentanyl addiction treatment? We would be happy to help, simply reach out.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a man-made opioid which has been used to treat severe pain in medical settings. In comparison to other opioids, it is about 50-100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl works like other opioids, interacting with receptors in the brain to relieve pain while improving relaxation, pleasure and contentment.


Fentanyl Side Effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Stomach Pain
  • Heartburn
  • Weight Loss
  • Trouble Urinating
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Unusual Thinking
  • Insomnia
  • Dry Mouth
  • Skin Reddening
  • Shaking
  • Back Pain
  • Chest Pain
  • Swelling (Arms, Hands, Legs, Feet)

Along with these more common side effects, you should notify 911 in the event you or a loved one experience:

Shallow Breathing
  • Slow Breathing
  • Trouble Breathing
  • Trouble Swallowing
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Fainting/Loss of Consciousness

These symptoms can be a sign of an overdose and require immediate medical attention.


Why Is Fentanyl Being Added To Other Drugs?

Along with heroin, there has been a rise in other narcotics such as cocaine being laced with Fentanyl. The reason for this is that Fentanyl is extremely cheap to produce and much more addictive than most drugs. This makes production cheaper and addiction much more likely. Unfortunately, Fentanyl is so strong that it has resulted in a lot more deaths than used to be seen.


Start Fentanyl Addiction Treatment in Audubon, NJ Today

Are you or a loved one addicted to Fentanyl? Interested in kicking your habit for good? We offer medication-assisted, outpatient addiction treatment in Audubon, New Jersey and would be more than happy to help. Reach out today to schedule an appointment.

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