10 Myths About Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid used to manage severe pain, especially cancer-related pain and postoperative discomfort. While its medical applications are invaluable for those suffering from intense pain, there has been a marked increase in its illegal production and distribution, contributing to the ongoing opioid epidemic. Given its potency and the resultant risks, it’s crucial to dispel any myths surrounding fentanyl to foster understanding and awareness. This article aims to address some of the prevalent myths about fentanyl and provide factual information to clarify misconceptions without endorsing or downplaying the legitimate medical uses of the drug. By promoting a more informed dialogue about fentanyl, we can collectively work towards safer and more knowledgeable communities.

Myth 1: Fentanyl Is Safe When Prescribed by a Doctor.

Fentanyl is indeed a legally prescribed medication utilized for its powerful pain-relieving properties, especially in cases where other pain relievers are ineffective. However, the term “safe” can be misleading. Even when used according to prescribed guidelines, fentanyl carries significant risks due to its extreme potency.

It’s essential for patients to strictly adhere to their doctor’s instructions when using fentanyl due to the narrow margin between a therapeutic dose and a lethal dose. Misuse (such as taking a higher dose or using it more frequently than prescribed) can result in overdose and death.

Doctors are trained to weigh the benefits and risks when prescribing medications. They consider factors such as the patient’s medical history, other medications, and individual health conditions before prescribing fentanyl. It’s prescribed when its benefits in managing severe pain outweigh the associated risks.

Even when taken as directed, fentanyl can cause side effects, including drowsiness, nausea, confusion, constipation, and respiratory depression (a slowed breathing rate that can be fatal if it becomes severe). The risk of harmful effects increases if the individual consumes alcohol or combines fentanyl with other CNS depressants, including benzodiazepines and certain medications.

Individuals are advised to discuss their medical history, concerns, and any other medications they are taking with their healthcare provider to minimize the risks. Using medication exactly as directed, storing it securely away from children or pets, and properly disposing of any unused medication are vital steps in ensuring the safe use of fentanyl.

Myth 2: Fentanyl Is Always Prescribed Legally.

While fentanyl can be prescribed legally for valid medical reasons, a considerable amount of fentanyl found today is illicitly manufactured and distributed, often leading to unintentional overdoses. When fentanyl is legally prescribed, it usually comes in patches, lozenges, or injectables and is administered under careful medical supervision due to its high potency and risk of overdose. Healthcare providers consider an individual’s overall health, pain level, and other medications before prescribing fentanyl due to its serious risks.

Illicitly manufactured fentanyl is a significant and escalating public health concern. It’s often created in clandestine laboratories and can be mixed with other illicit drug products, like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, without the consumer’s knowledge. Adding fentanyl to other illicit drug products significantly escalates the risk of overdose, as individuals may be unaware of the fentanyl content and consume a dose that they believe to be safe based on their experience with the other substance alone. The unpredictable potency of illicitly manufactured fentanyl increases the likelihood of overdose.

Awareness and education regarding the risks of fentanyl exposure, as well as the availability of naloxone—a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose, and access to substance use disorder treatment, are essential components in addressing the issues posed by both illicit and prescription fentanyl. Understanding that fentanyl is not always legally prescribed and recognizing the signs and risks of fentanyl overdose can help prevent accidental overdoses and save lives.

Myth 3: Fentanyl Is Similar to Other Prescription Pain Relievers.

While fentanyl is indeed a prescription pain reliever, it’s far more potent than most other opioids available medically. Its unique properties and potency make its medical use and abuse distinct from other opioids. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and about 50 times more potent than heroin. Given this high potency, fentanyl is typically reserved for severe pain management, such as cancer patients or post-operative cases where other pain relievers are ineffective. The dosages are meticulously calculated and are usually administered in a controlled medical setting.

The high potency of fentanyl elevates the risks of overdose and respiratory depression significantly compared to other opioids. Even a small amount can lead to serious adverse effects, making it crucial for individuals to strictly adhere to the medical guidelines provided by their healthcare provider. Illicit fentanyl, often mixed with other illicit drug products, poses even greater risks due to variable and unknown potency and composition.

Fentanyl’s medical forms, including patches, injectables, and lozenges, are distinct from common opioid pills like oxycodone and hydrocodone. Each form of fentanyl has specific instructions and precautions to minimize the risks of misuse and overdose. Patients prescribed fentanyl must follow their healthcare provider’s instructions meticulously, communicate openly about any other medications they take, and promptly report any side effects. This ensures that any potential adverse reactions or interactions can be addressed promptly to prevent serious consequences.

Understanding the distinct properties, potency, and risks of fentanyl compared to other prescription pain relievers is crucial for both patients and the general public. It promotes responsible use, helps recognize signs of misuse or overdose early, and fosters informed conversations between patients and their healthcare providers about pain management options and associated risks.

Myth 4: Consuming Alcohol With Fentanyl Is Safe as Long as Prescribed.

This statement is incorrect. Consuming alcohol while taking fentanyl is hazardous, regardless of whether the fentanyl is prescribed. Both substances depress the central nervous system, and their combined effects can lead to severe respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.

Alcohol and fentanyl each have substantial sedative effects. When consumed together, these effects are not just additive but can be multiplicative, significantly increasing the risk of respiratory depression. This condition slows or stops breathing, leading to a lack of oxygen to the brain, which can result in coma, permanent brain damage, or death.

Healthcare providers strongly advise against the concurrent use of alcohol and fentanyl. Individuals prescribed fentanyl should adhere strictly to medical guidelines and avoid alcohol consumption to prevent adverse reactions. Following healthcare provider instructions and discussing any concerns or queries about medication interactions is vital for patient safety.

Awareness about the potential dangers of combining alcohol with fentanyl or any other opioid is crucial. Understanding the risks and complying with medical advice can prevent severe health consequences and ensure the safe and effective use of prescribed medications. Education on the possible interactions and their consequences should be a standard part of prescribing practice for fentanyl and similar substances.

Myth 5: It’s Easy to Tell if Fentanyl Is Present in a Drug.

This is not true. Fentanyl is often undetectable when mixed with other substances as it has no distinct color, smell, or taste that can be easily identified. Even individuals with a history of substance use disorder might be unable to detect fentanyl in a mixture with other illegal drugs, making every use a potential risk for overdose. This makes it incredibly risky as people may unknowingly consume fentanyl, leading to accidental overdoses.

Given the inability to visually detect fentanyl, harm reduction strategies involve the use of fentanyl test strips. These strips can identify the presence of fentanyl in illicit street drugs, potentially preventing accidental overdoses. This is especially crucial for counterfeit drugs, where contents and purity are unknown and unreliable.

It’s important for individuals to be aware of the risks involved with using counterfeit prescription drugs, including the possibility of fentanyl contamination. Public education about these risks and the availability and use of testing methods like fentanyl test strips is essential in preventing accidental overdoses and deaths.

Myth 6: Fentanyl Can’t Be Detected in Drug Tests.

Contrary to this myth, fentanyl can indeed be detected through specific drug tests. However, it’s crucial to understand that standard opioid tests may not always detect fentanyl due to its synthetic nature, and specialized tests may be required to identify its presence accurately.

Fentanyl, being a synthetic opioid, does not always metabolize in the body in the same way that natural opioids do. Because of this, specialized fentanyl tests, often utilizing urine or blood samples, are needed to identify the drug accurately. Many laboratories and testing centers have the capability to conduct these specialized tests to detect fentanyl and its metabolites.

Standard opioid tests typically detect natural opiates like morphine and codeine and semi-synthetic opioids like heroin. However, they may not be sufficient to detect synthetic opioids like fentanyl due to the differences in their chemical structures and metabolic pathways. Therefore, relying solely on standard opioid tests could lead to false negatives for fentanyl use.

Accurate testing for fentanyl is essential, especially in medical and legal settings, to ensure appropriate interventions, treatments, and actions are taken. Knowing whether fentanyl is present can influence medical treatment decisions, particularly in suspected overdose cases, and can guide legal decisions in substance use evaluations.

Myth 7: Only Addicts Die From Fentanyl Overdoses.

This is a common misconception. Fentanyl overdoses can occur in anyone, regardless of whether they have a substance use disorder or are using it as prescribed for pain management. The high potency of fentanyl makes it extremely dangerous, and even a small amount can be lethal.

Fentanyl overdoses can affect a broad spectrum of individuals, from those who inadvertently consume it (accidental exposure to fentanyl) to those who may be using it under a doctor’s prescription. Overdoses are not exclusive to any specific demographic or group and can occur in individuals who may be using opioids for the first time or those with a long history of opioid use disorder. The risk of fentanyl overdose is ever-present.

Many overdoses occur because people unknowingly consume illicit fentanyl, often mixed with other illegal drugs to increase potency. Individuals may be unaware of the presence of fentanyl in these substances, leading to accidental overdoses due to its strength. There have also been cases of accidental exposure to fentanyl, leading to overdoses in non-intended consumers, such as children, pets, or first responders, highlighting the widespread risk associated with this potent substance.

Educating the public about the dangers of fentanyl exposure, promoting harm reduction strategies, and increasing access to overdose-reversing drugs like naloxone are crucial steps in preventing fentanyl-related deaths across all populations.

Myth 8: Naloxone Cannot Reverse Fentanyl Overdoses.

This is not true. Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, including those caused by fentanyl. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that opioids bind to, effectively displacing the opioids and reversing the effects. It’s available in different forms, including nasal sprays and auto-injectors, making it accessible for use by both emergency responders and bystanders in emergencies.

Fentanyl overdoses are characterized by profound respiratory depression, and naloxone can be a crucial tool in restoring normal breathing patterns in overdose victims. While fentanyl is extremely potent, timely administration of naloxone can be effective in reversing the overdose, potentially saving a life.

In cases of a fentanyl overdose, it’s crucial to administer naloxone as quickly as possible. The potency of fentanyl may sometimes necessitate multiple doses of naloxone to reverse an overdose fully, so it’s important to call emergency services immediately, even if naloxone has been administered, to ensure that the individual receives appropriate medical attention.

Increasing public access to naloxone and training on its use are essential components in reducing opioid overdose deaths. Many regions have implemented policies to make naloxone available without a prescription, and some have programs to distribute naloxone to individuals at risk of opioid overdose and their loved ones.

Educating the public on the signs of opioid-related drug overdoses and how to administer naloxone is crucial. Symptoms of an overdose include shallow or stopped breathing, blue lips and fingernails, and unresponsiveness. Knowing how to properly respond to these symptoms, including the administration of naloxone and performing rescue breathing, can be lifesaving.

Myth 9: Fentanyl Patches are Not Abusable or Dangerous.

This is not true. Despite being designed to deliver the medication steadily over time, Fentanyl patches can be abused, and their misuse poses significant risks. The patches are intended to provide prolonged pain relief by releasing fentanyl through the skin steadily, but any alteration or misuse can lead to potentially life-threatening consequences.

Individuals might abuse fentanyl patches by removing the gel that contains fentanyl and ingesting or injecting it, leading to a rapid and potent release of the drug, significantly higher than the intended therapeutic dose. This form of abuse can result in an immediate, high risk of overdose due to the extreme potency of fentanyl. Misusing fentanyl patches can lead to severe respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and overdose, all of which can be fatal without prompt medical intervention. Even when used as directed, the patches carry a risk due to the strength of fentanyl, and misuse magnifies this risk substantially.

It’s crucial for individuals who are prescribed fentanyl patches to use them precisely as directed by their healthcare provider and to store them securely to prevent theft or unintended use by others. Disposing of used or unneeded patches properly is also essential to avoid potential misuse or accidental exposure.

Increasing public awareness and education about the potential risks and proper usage of fentanyl patches is vital in preventing misuse and resulting adverse outcomes. Healthcare providers play a key role in informing patients about the appropriate use, storage, and disposal of fentanyl patches and the risks associated with misuse.

Myth 10: Fentanyl Addiction Is Rare.

This statement is incorrect. Given its high potency, even individuals using fentanyl as a legitimate pain management solution under medical supervision can develop dependence and, potentially, addiction. Furthermore, individuals using fentanyl illicitly are also at risk of developing an addiction due to its powerful opioid effects.

While fentanyl is used medically to treat severe and chronic pain, its potency makes it a high-risk substance for developing dependency, even when used as prescribed. Regular, prolonged use can make the body accustomed to the drug, necessitating higher doses to achieve the same pain-relieving effects, ultimately leading to addiction.

Illicit fentanyl use poses an even higher risk of addiction. Many people who use illicit fentanyl may already have a history of substance use and might be seeking a more potent opioid experience. The intense euphoria and the rapid development of tolerance can quickly lead to physical dependence and addiction.

Fentanyl addiction can have severe and life-altering consequences, including deteriorating physical and mental health, strained interpersonal relationships, financial hardship, legal issues, and increased risk of overdose and death.

Addressing fentanyl addiction requires specialized treatment, often involving pharmacological and holistic interventions. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment are crucial for overcoming addiction and reducing the risk of fatal overdoses. Raising awareness about the risks associated with fentanyl, including the potential for addiction, is essential. Education initiatives can help people understand the signs of dependency and addiction and encourage those struggling with fentanyl to seek help promptly.

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we are your partners in the journey towards hope and healing. Our compassionate team of experts specializes in evidence-based treatment, providing a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of substance use disorders. We understand that no two journeys are the same and aim to provide personalized treatment plans to meet our client’s unique needs and requirements. Contact Futures Recovery Healthcare today and start your journey towards the healthy life you deserve.

The numerous myths surrounding fentanyl are often misleading and can potentially be harmful. This powerful synthetic opioid carries significant risks, whether used medically or illicitly. It’s crucial to be informed about the realities of fentanyl use, misuse, and dependency rather than relying on common misconceptions and false beliefs about fentanyl. By fostering a more informed understanding, we can all contribute to more responsible and safe use of fentanyl and better address its challenges and concerns. The onus is on individuals, healthcare providers, and the wider community to spread accurate information and awareness regarding fentanyl and its effects to mitigate risks and protect public health.