Understanding Fentanyl: Why Its So Dangerous & How to Stay Safe

Because of that, your body cannot respond to how long does fentanyl stay in your system low levels of oxygen or high levels of carbon dioxide. “That is why it works so much better, and stronger than some of the other opioids.” If sedated or groggy, a person might be more likely to aspirate vomit and choke, particularly when alcohol and other sedatives are used.

Brain Injury and Neurological Risks

You’ll then need more of the drug to feel that same euphoric rush, and your brain ultimately stops working in the same way it did before you used opioids. When you take a drug like fentanyl and it binds to these receptors, they flood your brain’s reward centers with dopamine. Dopamine occurs naturally, but not at levels like it does when someone takes fentanyl. This flood of dopamine is what creates euphoria and a sense of extreme relaxation. Fentanyl is considered to be 100 times more potent than morphine, which is one of the reasons why it has such a significant potential for abuse. While fentanyl addiction is daunting, recovery is possible with the right treatment and support.

• The impaired circulation of blood and oxygen can make matters worse for the depressant effects on your central nervous system, increasing the risk of severe complications.
• This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment.
• Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and sedating antihistamines synergize with opioids to suppress breathing.
• Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
• Fentanyl can be detected in urine tests 24 to 72 hours after last use; in blood tests up to 48 hours; and in hair up to three months after last use.

How Does Fentanyl Make You Feel? Effects and Risks Explained

This includes support from family and friends, as well as participation in support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Engaging with others who have experienced similar struggles can provide encouragement, accountability, and a sense of community. Fentanyl addiction often leads to significant behavioral changes. Individuals may become isolated, neglect responsibilities, and engage in risky behaviors to obtain the drug. These changes can strain what is alcoholism relationships and make it difficult to maintain employment or academic performance, further entrenching the individual in a cycle of addiction.

What Does Cocaine Do to Your Body? Dangers of Excessive Cocaine Use

Relationships suffer as emotions swing between detachment and irritability. Work or school performance declines as concentration and energy fade. Physical health deteriorates as the body grows weaker under constant suppression.