What is an Overdose?
An overdose happens when a substance causes severe side effects and potentially fatal symptoms. When individuals overdose on fentanyl, their respiration may diminish or stop. This can reduce the quantity of oxygen that reaches the brain, a condition known as hypoxia. Hypoxia may cause a coma, permanent brain damage, or even death.
This just shows how dangerous fentanyl overdose is and why is it vital to seek fentanyl addiction treatment in a reputable drug rehab like Skyward Treatment Center. Continue reading for more information regarding fentanyl overdose, including warning signs, what to do, how to administer Narcan, individuals at risk of fentanyl overdose, etc.
Fentanyl: What is It and Why is It So Lethal?
Fentanyl is a very strong synthetic opioid. The substance is sometimes prescribed to relieve severe or post-surgical pain, but it is also illicitly manufactured and marketed. Fentanyl is commonly available in powders, pills, as well as prescription patches. However, individuals have even started synthesizing fentanyl in liquid form.
Fentanyl is more lethal than other drugs for a variety of reasons. First, it is highly potent. Fentanyl is a hundred times stronger than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin. Even extremely tiny doses can be fatal. Fentanyl, depending on the type, is quick-acting. This quick action adds to the threat. Another reason fentanyl may be so lethal is because it is often cut with other illicit substances. Fentanyl traces can be found in heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit medicines. This means that someone may be unaware that the drug they are ingesting includes fentanyl.
Signs of Fentanyl Overdose
An overdose is a very risky and perhaps fatal occurrence. When it comes to fentanyl, knowledge can save lives. Recognizing the signs of an overdose is the initial step toward keeping those closest to you safe.
Warning signs of an overdose:
Each person’s experience with fentanyl overdose may vary. Some may suffer a few, while others may suffer all of these symptoms. Furthermore, the intensity of these effects might vary depending on the amount, manner of administration, and individual tolerance. Some of the signs to watch out for are:
- Choking
- Gurgling
- Limp body or trouble moving
- Trouble breathing
- Constricted pupils
- Slurred speech.
- Being unconscious or unresponsive
What Should I Do If Someone Is Experiencing Fentanyl Overdose
If you get to witness an opioid overdose, here are some actions that you should take:
- Call 911.
- Use Narcan (naloxone) if available. Due to fentanyl’s strong potency, repeated doses of naloxone spaced between two and three minutes may be required.
- Support the individual’s breathing. Make sure that their airway is clear, then start rescue breathing and perform chest compressions.
- To avoid choking on vomit, roll the sufferer onto their side & bend the upper knee.
- Wait for emergency personnel to arrive. Medical attention is required after administering naloxone even if the patient regains consciousness.
Treating a Fentanyl Overdose
Fentanyl, like other opioids, has an antidote. Fentanyl overdoses can be treated with naloxone (Narcan). It can immediately reverse the effects of fentanyl. This is often the first step that you or a medical team will take to address an overdose. Other therapies may be required for someone who has overdosed on fentanyl. Often, it takes a team of medical specialists to help someone recover from an overdose. This entails using various treatments and medications to maintain a constant pulse and breathing rhythm.
Steps on Administering Narcan
- Check for responsiveness. Tap the person and shout their name.
- Call 911. If there is no response, call emergency services immediately.
- Administer Narcan. Place the nasal spray in one nostril and press the plunger.
- Position the person. Lay them on their side to prevent choking.
- Monitor breathing. If they don’t wake up in 2-3 minutes, give a second dose.
- Stay with them. Keep them calm and wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Who is at Risk for a Fentanyl Overdose?
Individuals with opiate use or drug use disorders are especially susceptible to fentanyl overdose. They may have acquired a tolerance to the medication, necessitating progressively harmful dosages to obtain the same effects as previously. Particularly if your loved one has just started opioid usage after not using it for some time, they are at high risk. Their tolerance to the drug will be lower than it was before they stopped using it. They may continue to take the same dose, believing that everything will be alright despite the fact that their body is no longer capable of handling that quantity. This implies you should be especially cautious after a lengthy rehab stint, jail time, etc.
Next, due to its potency, fentanyl is often combined with other opioids, such as heroin or prescription medications. Individuals who use these medications may be unaware that they contain fentanyl, placing them in danger of an overdose. This is especially risky with counterfeit prescription medicines. These may contain fatal levels of fentanyl, and the dosing strength is unknown.
Take the First Step to Overcome Fentanyl Addiction. Reach Out to Skyward Center Today!
Fentanyl abuse is very dangerous. However, fentanyl addiction is manageable. Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), peer support, behavioral therapy, and other evidence-based therapies can assist someone in becoming clean and maintaining long-term recovery. If you or someone you care about is struggling with fentanyl addiction, call us to learn more about our Houston inpatient or outpatient drug addiction treatment programs. Admission navigators are eagerly waiting to assist you in starting the admissions process, exploring available payment options, or discussing the many levels of rehab available at Skyward Treatment Center.
