While marijuana has been at the center of many debates worldwide, recently, concerns about the illicit mixing of fentanyl with cannabis have begun to trickle into mainstream discussion. But is there any truth to this fear? And if so, how can you protect yourself?
Fentanyl addiction doesn’t discriminate, but overcoming it is possible with the right help. Call 1-800-RECOVERY today to learn about your options for fentanyl addiction treatment at Recovery Centers of America.
Is Fentanyl in Marijuana?
There’s no denying it; it’s a dangerous possibility. However, the likelihood that fentanyl is intentionally mixed with marijuana at production centers or dispensaries stands at an incredibly low probability. The real danger lies in the drug’s tightening grip on society, with cases of street drugs containing fentanyl increasing.
It’s not unheard of for street drugs to be contaminated or laced with fentanyl without the user’s knowledge, and marijuana, while not a likely suspect like heroin or cocaine, may still come with this hidden risk. The harsh reality is that fentanyl, an opioid 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, doesn’t discriminate in finding its way into users’ systems.
Dangers of Fentanyl
Fentanyl has been linked to thousands of accidental overdose deaths in recent years, with even tiny amounts proving potentially lethal. As a synthetic substance, fentanyl’s pharmacological effects can vary depending on its concentration and other factors.
Fentanyl might not commonly share space with marijuana, but its standalone risks are enough to warrant understanding and alarm. Risks associated with fentanyl use include:
- Overdose – Fentanyl is up to 100 times more potent than morphine, and even a small amount can lead to overdose and death. This risk amplifies when fentanyl is consumed unknowingly, as the user is unaware of the dose of fentanyl they have consumed.
- Respiratory depression – The most significant risk of fentanyl is its ability to slow down breathing. Suppressing this life-sustaining function can lead to anoxia, brain damage, and in the worst cases death.
- Addiction – Fentanyl, like all opioids, carries a high risk of dependency. Addiction can occur rapidly, even in individuals who believe they are using the drug responsibly for pain management.
- Social impacts – The ripple effects of fentanyl addiction extend beyond the user. Families, relationships, and communities suffer the strain of this powerful addiction, contributing to broader societal issues and personal despair.
For those who believe they may have been exposed to fentanyl or who struggle with substance abuse, it’s critical to seek professional help. Recovery Centers of America (RCA) offers a network of support, offering comprehensive treatment centered around the individual.
The Importance of Seeking Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Seeking professional treatment for fentanyl addiction is so important because of the substance’s high potency and the severe nature of dependence it can create. Unlike some other drugs, fentanyl addiction can rapidly spiral out of control, leading to life-threatening consequences. Professional treatment centers offer a structured environment where individuals can receive medical detoxification, which is essential for managing withdrawal symptoms as comfortably as possible. These centers also provide comprehensive therapy sessions aimed at addressing the root causes of addiction, helping individuals develop coping strategies that are vital for long-term recovery.
Trying to manage fentanyl addiction without professional help poses significant risks. Due to the intense withdrawal symptoms and the high chances of relapse and overdose, it’s not only less effective but can also be dangerous. Centers specialized in addiction treatment understand the complexities of substance use disorders and are equipped with the tools and expertise for a level of care and support that cannot be found elsewhere. Seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming control over one’s life, and it’s a decision that anyone struggling with addiction should be encouraged to make without delay.
Contact RCA Today for Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Recovery Centers of America is ready to help those struggling with fentanyl addiction reclaim control of their lives. With a compassionate, research-based approach, RCA works with patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that leads to lasting recovery. To take the first step today, call 1-800-RECOVERY or contact us online.
