Have you wondered, “Is fentanyl an opioid?” Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that has become increasingly popular in the United States. It is classified as an opioid because it is a chemical cousin to morphine and other substances that bind to the brain’s natural opioid receptors.
Fentanyl is significantly more potent than most opioids and is often used in medical settings for pain management or in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. Fentanyl is also highly addictive, often used illicitly, and is associated with many overdose deaths.
MD M.A.T.T. offers opioid addiction treatment through medication-assisted therapies that include buprenorphine and injectable naltrexone. The FDA approves these medications to treat opioid addiction and help reduce cravings while promoting recovery. Reach out to us at 410.505.7434 to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one recover from opioid addiction.
What Is Fentanyl?
Is fentanyl an opioid? Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that’s been around for decades as an anesthetic and painkiller—and is usually prescribed after surgery or for cancer patients. It is now being sold illegally on the street in powder form or mixed with other drugs like heroin. Fentanyl is much more potent than heroin. Even small doses can be fatal.
While fentanyl is an opioid often used for medical purposes, its high potency and potential for misuse are a cause for concern. It is crucial to speak with a health professional if you have been prescribed fentanyl or have questions about opioid addiction.
Is Fentanyl an Opioid?
Fentanyl is an opioid because it binds to opioid receptors in the brain. It also produces similar effects as other opioids, such as morphine or codeine. However, fentanyl has a much more substantial impact than these drugs. It can be up to 100 times more potent than morphine, posing a greater risk of overdose and death than other opioids. This makes it particularly dangerous for people unfamiliar with its effects or who do not have access to proper medical supervision when using it.
MD M.A.T.T is here to help you or a loved one recover from opioid addiction and enter into long-term recovery. Our team provides evidence-based treatment solutions, such as medication-assisted therapy, that can make all the difference in a successful recovery.
The Dangers of Fentanyl
The potency of fentanyl means that even small amounts can cause serious side effects such as:
- Slowed breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Drowsiness and confusion
- Nausea
The long-term dangers of fentanyl include the following:
- Physical dependence
- Increased risk of overdose
- Organ damage
- Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression
In extreme cases, overdosing on fentanyl can lead to coma or even death due to respiratory arrest. It also carries a high risk of dependence and addiction because of its potent effects on the body and brain. Therefore, anyone considering fentanyl should proceed cautiously and get professional help.
Learn More About MD M.A.T.T.’s Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs
MD M.A.T.T.’s opioid addiction treatment programs help promote sobriety, wellness, and success. Our team of experts works diligently to meet the personalized needs of everyone who walks through our doors. We provide evidence-based methods such as counseling, group therapy, pharmacological therapies, and aftercare plans to help patients recover. Our team offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can reflect on their journeys, learn new skills for managing cravings and triggers, and create long-term goals that will lead them to recovery.
We aim to give everyone the resources needed to make lasting positive changes in their life while helping them see they are not alone in this fight against opioid addiction. Contact us today at 410.505.7434 to find a suitable program for you or a loved one.
