Health

Symptoms and Treatment Options for Fentanyl Overdose in Houston

Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opiate used to treat severe pain, like that triggered by operations or late cancer. In another way fentanyl, like all other opioid painkillers, works by binding to opioid receptors found throughout the body and brain. The following are possible adverse effects of fentanyl:

  • Pain relief
  • Sedation
  • Euphoria
  • Relaxation
  • Sleepiness
  • Delayed breathing including drowsiness.
  • Nausea
  • Urine retention
  • Vomiting

Fentanyl Poisoning from an Excessive Dosage

Opioids are commonly measured in milligrams. Two hundred milligrams is the fatal dose of morphine. Fentanyl is described in micrograms, 1,000 times smaller than a milligram. As per the DEA, fentanyl and a similar drug, carfentanil, have lethal doses as low as 2,000 micrograms or 2 milligrams. Even police officers and other first responders risk their lives by going to the scene of a suspected fentanyl overdose. There’s no guarantee that they won’t accidentally contact the substance.

Fentanyl has evolved into a significantly more lethal substance in recent years. Used for elephant tranquilization, carfentanil is a 10,000-fold more potent opioid than morphine.  Fentanyl and its counterparts are the most dangerous narcotics on the market, so it’s not surprising.

Fentanyl Overdose Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of a fentanyl overdose are identical to those of other opioid overdoses. With recreational fentanyl usage, these signs are more noticeable, but they can equally occur with prescription fentanyl. Overdose symptoms include the following:

  • Dizziness: it will be challenging to maintain a straight and upright position with an overdose of that magnitude.
  • An oxygen deficiency might lead to sleepiness.
  • People suffering from fentanyl overdose may be utterly unaware of their current situation, such as whether or not they have taken the drug.
  • Unlike erratic, fast breathing, hypoventilation is characterized by slow breathing. Opioids like fentanyl can affect the brain’s respiratory system.
  • Faintness is a common sign of weakened muscles and joints. Even the limbs may be affected by a lack of mobility.

Fentanyl Overdose Signs and Symptoms

Equivalent to a heroin overdose, a fentanyl overdose exhibits the same signs as an overdose of heroin. The victim should be monitored closely. Take immediate action if you notice any of the following:

  • Heartbeats that are sluggish
  • Inability to concentrate.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Lips and fingernails that are stained blue

A sudden loss of consciousness should be dealt with as soon as possible. Any responder should be alarmed by these additional warning signs and the obvious danger. You should be aware of the symptoms of fentanyl poisoning. If you fear someone has overdosed on fentanyl, you need to act quickly. As soon as possible, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. Medical personnel who suspect fentanyl is present will most likely administer naloxone. This drug can help reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if given as soon as feasible.

Skyward Offers Quality Fentanyl Addiction Treatment

After a fentanyl overdose, individuals must get immediate treatment to address their addiction and overuse of the drug. As a first step, patients should check into a good medical detox facility like Skyward Treatment Center to be monitored and treated for the symptoms of fentanyl withdrawal. Fentanyl addiction can be treated with behavioral therapy and medication, as has been the case with other opioid addictions.