Fentanyl Poisoning

The deadliest facet of America’s opioid epidemic, fentanyl poisoning has claimed millions of lives—and counting.

Fentanyl Poisoning in Young Adults

Fentanyl is a human-made opioid that used to be rare outside hospital settings. Only a few years ago, fentanyl poisoning was almost unheard of, but now this drug is leading the next wave of the opioid crisis.

Like all opioids, fentanyl binds to specialized receptors throughout the brain. It attaches itself to the areas responsible for mood and emotions, in addition to those that control breathing. Therefore, while fentanyl can create a more intense high for users, it is also far riskier to use because of its potential to cause an accidental overdose. A dose as small as two milligrams is enough to be fatal for many people.

The Dangers of Fentanyl Overdose

Often, drug dealers use fentanyl to cut batches of other drugs to make them go further. This substance binds more completely to opioid receptors in the brain than most other opiates do, which is what makes it so powerful and potentially deadly. Drug distributors may use it to get people hooked quickly and keep them coming back for larger doses.

Whether sold as a powder or blended with substances like heroin or cocaine, illicit black-market fentanyl is driving the dramatic rise in fentanyl poisoning deaths in recent years. People who take a fentanyl-laced drug are much more likely to experience an accidental overdose, which is what makes fentanyl use far more dangerous than other opioids.

Fentanyl’s Rising Impact

People who are physically or emotionally dependent on this drug use it to reach a more powerful high, while drug dealers lace their products with it because it can keep buyers returning for increasingly larger doses. Fentanyl’s ability to rapidly suppress central nervous system functioning makes it the most lethal drug.

Fentanyl poisoning can occur within minutes, so recognizing the following symptoms and immediately calling 911 can be lifesaving.

California Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at PACE Recovery

If you or someone you care about is addicted to fentanyl or any other opioid, find hope in the array of available possibilities for getting qualified help. Our Orange County residential rehab program addresses all facets of the disease of addiction, allowing young men to reclaim their full potential in life.

Break the cycle of opioid dependence with our specialized clinical tracks. Our industry-leading California facility provides mental and behavioral health treatment exclusively for young men. We also provide medical detox to stabilize clients before moving on to the next stages of residential extended care. PACE welcomes young men seeking a structured, intensive program for substance abuse, dual diagnoses and mental health disorders.

While fentanyl poisoning can be frightening, it may be the clarion call you need to turn your life around. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.