There are several different types of opioids, and fentanyl and heroin are two of the most common ones. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and heroin is derived from morphine. Fentanyl is the more potent of the two, but heroin is incredibly fast acting, making them both highly addictive and dangerous.
Fentanyl – The Man Made Opioid
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that may be prescribed in controlled doses for special cases, but it is mostly created on the street illegally. When abused, fentanyl damages the brain’s serotonin production – forcing users to become dependent on the drug to feel joy or happiness.
Fentanyl commonly makes users feel extreme euphoria, followed by drowsiness. Other effects of fentanyl include nausea, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and respiratory issues. When near overdose, users can also experience loss of consciousness or memory issues.
What makes fentanyl so dangerous on the streets is the fact that there’s no way to confirm what is mixed into it and whether or not it’s been mixed into something else. Because fentanyl is so potent it has a high risk of overdose when abused.
Heroin – A Natural Opioid
Heroin is an opioid that comes from morphine and the poppy plant. The drug often comes in the form of powder or “black tar heroin,” which is a sticky substance that is smoked or injected.
What makes heroin so dangerous is its fast acting properties. This opioid can be injected, snorted, or smoked – allowing it to enter the bloodstream rapidly. Heroin is known to be quite dangerous because like fentanyl, there is no way to know if other substances have been mixed into the drug.
When used, heroin gives a rush of euphoria. When abused, heroin makes users experience drowsiness, trouble breathing, nausea, dry mouth, and fatigue. Heroin overdose is difficult to treat because it’s hard to determine how much heroin was consumed and how strong the substance was. When overdose occurs it looks like shallow breathing, blue lips and fingers, clammy skins, convulsions, and in extreme cases coma or death.
Detoxing from Fentanyl or Heroin
The opioid detox process should always be done under medical supervision in an accredited detox facility. Fentanyl and heroin detox is a complex process that can become dangerous if attempted alone or at home. During medical detox, doctors can prescribe certain medications to ease pain, reduce nausea, and make the client more comfortable. Common medications prescribed during detoxification include buprenorphine and naltrexone. If you or someone you know could benefit from opioid detox and rehabilitation, give the admissions team at Sobriety Options a call. We work with your insurance coverage and your needs to place you in a treatment center that encourages you to meet your sobriety goals.
About Sobriety Options
Sobriety Options is open 24/7 to provide support and care for those seeking substance abuse or mental health treatment. A branch of Solution Based Treatment, we serve as a central admissions office for seven different branches throughout Southern California. Our team is able to help you find the best sober living option for yourself or your loved one to help them get the care they need. For more information visit our website at sobrietyoptions.com or give us a call at (855) 485-0071.
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