How addictive is fentanyl? Fentanyl is an extremely potent opioid that is highly addictive and more than 50 times stronger than morphine.
While it is legally prescribed for severe pain, fentanyl is also illicitly manufactured and sold. Due to its high potential for misuse and the risk of psychological and physical dependence, fentanyl is classified as a schedule II controlled substance.
This guide explores the addictive potential of this synthetic opioid and shows you how to connect with treatment in Southern California.
What is Fentanyl Addiction?
Fentanyl addiction, is a subtype of opioid use disorder that is characterized by the compulsive and problematic use of fentanyl. DSM-5-TR (revised fifth edition of APA’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) outlines 11 criteria for the diagnosis of fentanyl addiction:
- Taking larger amounts or using fentanyl for a longer time than intended.
- Trying unsuccessfully to cut down or control fentanyl use.
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from fentanyl.
- Experiencing strong cravings or urges to use fentanyl.
- Neglecting major responsibilities at work, school, or home due to fentanyl use.
- Persisting in fentanyl use despite social or interpersonal problems caused by the drug.
- Giving up important activities due to fentanyl use.
- Engaging in hazardous situations while under the influence of fentanyl.
- Continuing fentanyl use despite being aware of physical or psychological problems caused by it.
- Developing tolerance and requiring higher doses of fentanyl for desired effects.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms or using fentanyl to avoid withdrawal.
- To be diagnosed with fentanyl addiction, an individual must experience at least two of these symptoms within a one-year period. The severity of the addiction can range from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms present.
Fentanyl addiction is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires professional help and intervention for successful treatment and recovery.
Why is Fentanyl so Addictive?
Why is fentanyl addictive? The synthetic opioid is especially addictive due to several factors. Firstly, its potency is significantly higher than other opioids like morphine or heroin. This means that even small doses of fentanyl can produce intense euphoria and sedation, making it highly attractive to individuals seeking a powerful and immediate high.
Beyond this, fentanyl’s rapid onset of action and short duration of effects contribute to its addictive potential. The intense rush of pleasure experienced after using fentanyl can create a strong psychological and physical craving for more, leading to repeated use and the development of physical dependence.
Additionally, fentanyl’s high affinity for mu-opioid receptors in the brain results in a rapid tolerance buildup. This means that over time, individuals need increasingly higher doses of fentanyl to achieve the desired effects, further fueling the cycle of addiction.
The withdrawal symptoms associated with fentanyl addiction can also be severe and uncomfortable. When individuals try to quit or reduce their fentanyl use, they may experience intense cravings, anxiety, depression, muscle aches, nausea, and insomnia. These withdrawal symptoms often drive people to continue using the drug to avoid the distressing effects, perpetuating the addiction.
Additionally, the illicit production and distribution of fentanyl have contributed to its widespread abuse. Illegally manufactured fentanyl, often mixed with other substances or sold as counterfeit pills, increases the risk of overdose and addiction. Many individuals may unknowingly consume fentanyl, believing it to be another less potent opioid, which further contributes to the addiction crisis.
Fentanyl FAQs
Is fentanyl more addictive than heroin?
Fentanyl is considered to be more potent than heroin, which means it can be more addictive due to its high potency and rapid onset of effects. That said, individual susceptibility to addiction can vary.
What is fentanyl used for?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid primarily used for pain management. It is often prescribed for severe pain relief, especially in cases where other opioids may not be effective.
Does fentanyl make you sleep all the time?
Fentanyl can cause drowsiness and sedation as common side effects. The extent to which it affects sleep can vary among individuals, though, and it is not expected to make someone sleep all the time.
Is fentanyl longer-acting than morphine?
Fentanyl is generally shorter-acting than morphine, but it can depend on the specific formulation and administration route. Some fentanyl formulations, such as extended-release patches, can provide longer-lasting effects than immediate-release forms.
What are the side effects of fentanyl?
Common side effects of fentanyl include nausea, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, respiratory depression, and potential dependence or addiction. It can also cause severe respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
Get Treatment for Fentanyl Addiction at California Detox
If you or a loved one have fallen prey to the fentanyl epidemic, we provide a selection of evidence-based treatment programs at California Detox in Laguna Beach, CA.
Most cases of fentanyl addiction benefit from supervised medical detoxification. Our fentanyl detox program offers access to medications and emotional care to streamline the intensity of opioid withdrawal. Following detox, you can move into ongoing treatment at our luxury beachside rehab.
Take advantage of the smoothest pathway to inpatient or outpatient rehab with our supervised medical detox program. Access medications to streamline withdrawal and mitigate cravings. Following detox, you can transition directly into an inpatient program (residential rehab) that utilizes the following interventions:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Psychotherapy
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
- Family therapy
- Holistic therapies
- Aftercare support
When you are ready to embrace life fentanyl-free, call admissions at 949.694.8305.
