Opioids - Fentanyl Addiction: Potency, Overdose Risk, and Treatment
Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and is now the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in New Jersey. Understanding fentanyl use disorder is the first step toward treatment.
Why Fentanyl Is So Dangerous
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50-100 times more potent than morphine by weight. A dose of 2 milligrams, roughly equivalent to a few grains of salt, can be lethal. It binds to opioid receptors with extreme affinity, producing rapid and intense euphoria followed by severe respiratory depression at overdose doses.
In NJ, illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF) is now found in the supply of nearly every street drug, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills, creating overdose risk even for people who have never intentionally used opioids.
Signs of Fentanyl Dependence
- -Using fentanyl more frequently or in larger amounts than intended
- -Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using (flu-like symptoms, severe anxiety, muscle pain)
- -Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from fentanyl
- -Continuing to use despite awareness of harm
- -Carrying naloxone (Narcan) due to overdose risk
Treatment for Fentanyl Use Disorder
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine (Suboxone) or methadone is the gold standard for opioid use disorder, including fentanyl dependence. MAT reduces cravings, prevents withdrawal, and cuts overdose mortality by 50% or more. It is combined with behavioral therapy for best outcomes.
Archangel Centers provides assessment and referral for fentanyl use disorder treatment at 44 Apple St STE 3, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724. Call (732) 889-5400 to speak with our admissions team today.