Why is Fentanyl So Dangerous?

According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is a very powerful synthetic opioid that is 30-50 times more potent than heroin, and 50-100 times more potent than morphine.

This substance is typically used on patients who need to treat severely chronic pain; however, the effects of fentanyl can be deadly when misused. This drug in its purest form is a white powder that looks similar to small salt grains, and it only takes a very small dosage to cause destruction. The treatment experts at Banyan Treatment Center Chicago provide addiction treatment for any substance. We want to warn you of the dangers of fentanyl. Becoming aware of these dangers is extremely important because your life can be on the line with misuse.

The Effects of Fentanyl and Where to Find It

The effects of fentanyl resemble those of heroin, and the high can be so euphoric that it can quickly lead to addiction. “Fentanyl is a Schedule II narcotic under the United States Controlled Substances Act.” This drug is approved by the FDA for very limited use as a pain reliever medicine; however, fentanyl is often sold illicitly. This substance is most often trafficked from China and Mexico. Dealers are known to sell fentanyl as heroin to users, which can be extremely dangerous without knowing the potency. The rise in overdose rates is an alarming wakeup call that heroin and other opiate users are using fentanyl and they may not even realize it. Taking too much fentanyl can lead to stoppage of breathing and a coma. Unfortunately, death can be a common effect as well.

Like any substance, the constant use of fentanyl will quickly turn into a full-blown tolerance that gives users painful withdrawal symptoms. It’s crucial that all fentanyl users get the help they need before it’s too late.