Fentanyl is a type of narcotic analgesic. Going under such brand names as Actiq, Abstral, and Instanyl, this drug has had a history of severe addiction issues associated with it due to the rapid onset of pleasurable sensations. In medical rooms around the world, it is commonly used in conjunction with anaesthetics in order to help treat breakthrough pain and prepare patients for future treatment.
The reason why the drug is used on a regular basis is that it is many times more powerful than morphine. 100 micrograms of this drug is equivalent to roughly 10mg of morphine. This is significant and is why hospitals prefer to use it only in very specific circumstances.
The delivery method comes through transdermal patches, Actiq lollypops, and standard tablets.
Side Effects
Fentanyl’s minor side effects occur include constipation, confusion, sweating, and diarrhoea. It is no surprise, therefore, that healthcare professionals prefer to use for morphine for pain treatment. These side effects are common and tend to reduce patient quality of life.
In fewer than 10 percent of patients, fentanyl’s more serious side effects manifest themselves. These include anything from dyspepsia, inability to urinate, hallucinations, anorexia, and abdominal pains.
Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Fentanyl was recently the subject of major action around the world. The numbers of people dying from fentanyl-related deaths had reached alarming proportions. In response, drug rehabilitation clinics around the world trained to deal with these addictions, whilst the medical world reduced the frequency of the drug’s use.
This is good news for patients because it means that they can get the best treatment possible. Addiction treatment clinics have extensive experience in dealing with these issues and targeting the heart of the addiction. Patients who undergo this sort of treatment can expect to have the influence of their triggers reduced and the tools needed to help them step into a clean and drug-free lifestyle.
