Fentanyl’s strength causes overdose, especially when the person combines substances such as alcohol and benzodiazepines with Fentanyl increases the risk of overdose and death by respiratory arrest.
The following are signs of overdose:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Blue lips and skin color.
- Cold, clammy skin
- Markedly constricted pupils
- Stupor
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma
An overdose of Fentanyl can be fatal. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect one. Medical experts can give naloxone, an opioid receptor blocker that acts as an “antidote” to reverse the effects of Fentanyl. Naloxone is available in several forms, such as intravenous or intramuscular injection or as a nasal spray.
It may be possible for some regular fentanyl users to keep naloxone at home in case of an overdose. However, it is strange that a person would be prepared to take naloxone themselves during an overdose, so family members and loved ones must be familiar with using the medication in whatever formulation is on hand.
Buprenorphine and methadone are also opioid receptor agonist drugs. They activate the same receptor that Fentanyl acts on to reduce cravings and prevent Fentanyl from producing effects.
Behavioral therapies also help people adjust thinking patterns and behaviors around fentanyl use, develop better coping skills, and react more to any triggers encountered. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is perhaps the most well-known of these therapies.