Fentanyl versus Morphine
Opioid addiction is a growing concern in the United States.
In 2018 alone, over 128 people died per day as a result of an opioid overdose.1 Two of the most common and potent opioids found in this study are morphine and fentanyl. When discussing fentanyl versus morphine, it’s important to keep in mind that although one may be more potent, both are definitely hazardous when taken irresponsibly. Although these drugs are usually prescribed and strictly monitored by a doctor, individuals who are using them are still at risk of developing an addiction. Our rehab facility in Boca wanted to break down and compare fentanyl and morphine.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid usually prescribed to treat individuals experiencing severe pain after surgery. It’s also used as an alternative way to treat pain in individuals who are addicted to other opiate (narcotic) pain medications. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.2 It affects the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. It doesn’t take long for the effects of fentanyl abuse to kick in.
Some of the signs of a developing addiction to fentanyl include:
- Drowsiness
- Stomach Pain
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Shallow breathing or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Fainting
Fentanyl’s high potency increases the risk of addiction for users, which can be difficult to overcome. Individuals who are suffering from an addiction to fentanyl can get help in our residential treatment program. There, recovering addicts will learn more about the source of their addiction and the tools they need to live a sober life.
Morphine
Morphine is an opiate often used to treat pain and other physical conditions. Like fentanyl, morphine works by adjusting the brain’s response to pain. Morphine tablets and capsules are usually prescribed to relieve severe and constant pain that is otherwise uncontrollable or cannot be treated by any other substance.3 This drug is very addictive, and the risk of substance abuse increases especially for individuals who rely on it to relieve their pain. As a result of morphine abuse, the body can undergo damaging changes
Some signs of developing morphine addiction include:
- Stomach pain
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Mood swings
- Change in heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures
You should look out for these signs if you or a loved one are taking morphine. This drug should only be taken if prescribed by a doctor and should be taken exactly as it’s prescribed. If an individual develops an addiction to morphine, we advise them to begin their recovery process in our opiate detox program. At Banyan Boca, we know withdrawal symptoms of opiate addiction can be uncomfortable and hazardous if they aren’t treated properly.
Fentanyl and Morphine Comparison
The battle of fentanyl versus morphine has been a constant topic of conversation within the medical world. Both substances are different in potency, but can still lead to addiction. Fentanyl is known to have a higher potency than morphine and can cause more severe side effects. Nonetheless, morphine shares similar symptoms with fentanyl, and the effects of both drugs depend on the dose taken. No matter the drug, it should only be taken if and as prescribed by a doctor.
Addiction is a disease that can destroy a person’s health and life. We advise individuals struggling with substance abuse to seek the right treatment to help them recover.
If you or someone you know is battling with substance abuse, do not wait to get help. Call us now at 888-280-4763 to get started on the road to recovery.
Sources:
- NIH- NIH Heal Initiative Research Plan
- NIH- Fentanyl
- NIH- Morphine
