If you are getting ready for a surgical procedure, the surgeon will probably talk to you about how he or she will put you to sleep. They may also discuss how they will remove all feelings of pain and discomfort and keep you comfortable for the procedure’s duration. One of the drugs that may be used is called fentanyl. However, if you use fentanyl outside of the medical setting, this can lead to significant side effects that could end up being fatal. Therefore, take a look at some of the helpful information that we have put together below regarding a fentanyl overdose, fentanyl side effects, and what you need to know about this dangerous medication. If you struggle with an addiction to this or other opioids, reach out to Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge at 844.442.8673 for treatment.
An Overview of Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a drug that is able to treat pain. Usually, this medication can treat acute pain following a burn injury, a broken bone, or right before someone is about to undergo surgery. Fentanyl comes in a variety of forms. These include:
- In many situations, fentanyl is available as a transdermal patch that goes on the skin
- In other cases, you may receive fentanyl to chew and swallow
- Some forms of fentanyl can be placed under the tongue and absorb there
- Fentanyl can also be directly injected by a medical professional
- Fentanyl can also be administered as a nasal spray
Ultimately, fentanyl was one of the most potent pain medications on the planet. Unfortunately, this also makes it one of the most addictive.
Common Fentanyl Side Effects
Regardless of whether you have overdosed or have developed an addiction to fentanyl, several side effects may develop. A few of the most common side effects of fentanyl include:
- Your skin may turn red in the area where a patch has been applied
- Fentanyl can also cause people to develop nausea and vomiting
- Fentanyl commonly causes people to feel tired or dizzy
- This medication could also lead to constipation
- Some people develop a headache after taking this medication
- You may notice that your appetite decreases
These are merely side effects. These are symptoms that you may notice even if you have not taken a fentanyl overdose. A fentanyl overdose will present very differently.
What Happens in a Fentanyl Overdose?
If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have overdosed on fentanyl, there are severe, life-threatening symptoms that may develop. The most common concern involves shallow breathing. People who overdose on this medication will experience very shallow breathing that barely moves their chest at all. They may also pass out, fall unconscious, or enter a coma.
In addition, fentanyl can also cause your blood pressure to drop to dangerous levels. If your blood pressure drops too low, your brain, heart, and lungs do not have access to the oxygen and nutrients they need to keep functioning.
For all of these reasons, if you are concerned that someone has overdosed on fentanyl, it is essential to call 911 right away. An overdose means that someone needs immediate treatment in the emergency room. Then, treatment can start for substance abuse and addiction concerns. That is where we can help you.
Contact Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge Today
If you are concerned that you may be suffering from drug abuse and addiction disorders, Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge is here to help you. At Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge, we know that there are many people who suffer from chronic pain. Unfortunately, chronic pain can also lead to an addiction to opioid and narcotic medications. We want to help you protect your long-term sobriety. Please contact us today at 844.442.8673 to learn more about our programs.
