Heroin and fentanyl are both opioids, a type of drug synthesized from chemicals endemic to the poppy plant. Some opioids are prescribed for pain relief, especially in cases of severe or chronic pain, but neither heroin nor fentanyl is widely used in any medical application, save for some post-surgery situations. Instead, these two opioids are frequently abused for their elating effects and are commonly manufactured illicitly.
Fentanyl might make up a relatively small portion of total substance abuse, but it remains one of the deadliest and most unassuming drugs on the criminal market. If you or a family member are routinely taking heroin or fentanyl, it’s vital to get help before the worst can occur. At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we can intervene and help overcome addiction before it becomes critical. Call us today at 877.920.6583 to learn more about how our program for heroin addiction treatment in Greater Boston can bring relief to those struggling with heroin or fentanyl addiction.
The Consequences of Heroin, Fentanyl, and Opioid Abuse
While both heroin and fentanyl are distinctly different drugs, the two being opioids does mean they will function in some similar ways. For example, both are effective in providing a short rush of energy. The two are also highly addictive, but heroin remains the more popular drug. Using either results in a distinct effect on the eyes, in which users’ pupils shrink to the size of a needlepoint.
As for their undesirable effects, heroin use tends to result in the following:
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Impaired mental function
- Reduced heart rate
- Reduced rate of breathing
A combination of these effects in tandem with other substances, such as alcohol, can potentially lead to more adverse effects, such as a coma or cardiac arrest.
Overdosing Is Common With Heroin and Fentanyl
All opioids have some abuse potential, but when it’s prescribed, pharmacists make an effort to minimize it as much as possible. Totally unregulated drugs, however, come with no safe dosage and are much more likely to be overdosed upon. This is especially the case with drugs that received no screening whatsoever. Most heroin and fentanyl available through illicit means has no quality assurance guarantee and can have wide-ranging effects as a result.
Additionally, fentanyl is commonly used as a cheap, effective padding for more expensive drugs, such as cocaine. While it may be cheaper, it grants a much more potent high and can put drug users unaware of its presence at a much higher risk of death.
While it is never advised to take fentanyl for the safety of yourself or another, fentanyl test strips are inexpensive and can quickly indicate if a drug has been laced. Keep in mind fentanyl is far from the only filler drug that can cause sudden death. The safest course of action is to avoid the substance altogether.
Reach Out to Greater Boston Addiction Centers for Heroin Addiction Treatment Today
The most important commonality between heroin and fentanyl is that the two pose a real risk to the health of the people using them. Addiction to either substance or to one that contains an amount of fentanyl is a matter that grows more pressing with each use. Addiction is something that worsens with each use and becomes a harder habit to break with time.
Overcoming addiction takes dedication, planning, and perseverance. At Greater Boston Addiction Centers, we offer programs that cater to the individual needs of each client, teaching them the skills they need to not only beat addiction but to keep on living without it. Our team is compassionate, skilled, and prepared to help you or a loved one recover from heroin addiction. Take action today, and learn about our heroin addiction treatment center in Greater Boston by calling 877.920.6583 or by reaching out to us online.
