Local Rehab Investigates Fentanyl & Heroin

Newport, TN - ReVIDA® Recovery released a new blog exploring the differences between fentanyl and heroin. A leading provider of addiction treatment, ReVIDA® Recovery works to educate the public on all current topics surrounding substance use disorder.

“Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. It can be prescribed or used illicitly. When people use it medically, it treats severe pain after surgery. In prescription form, it can be known as Actiq® (fentanyl citrate) or Duragesic® (fentanyl transdermal system) and can be found as a shot, lozenge, or patch. When used illicitly, it takes the form of a powder and is often put into eye droppers or pills resembling other medications. Dealers commonly mix fentanyl with other substances, such as heroin, to create a more substantial effect. It also makes the substance stronger and increases the supply of the product.

Heroin is an opioid made from morphine. It can appear as a white or brown powder or a black sticky substance called black tar heroin. It is 100% illegal to possess heroin in all forms, and it is twice as potent as morphine. People who use heroin will snort, smoke, sniff, or inject heroin. People who use heroin also have an increased risk of developing HIV and hepatitis,” the article states.

Those who use heroin regularly are likely to feel withdrawal symptoms between uses. These symptoms include anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, runny nose, diarrhea, vomiting, agitation, and intense cravings. Similarly, fentanyl use can lead to withdrawal symptoms as well and are almost identical to heroin withdrawal symptoms. The severity of symptoms may be more intense in those who use fentanyl than those who use heroin.

Side effects of both fentanyl and heroin use are also similar, and it is possible to overdose on either one. An overdose occurs when too much of a substance is in the body at one time. In Tennessee, Narcan® (naloxone) is available with or without a prescription and is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. If an overdose of heroin or fentanyl is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. Giving Narcan® (naloxone) even when the person is not overdosing will not harm them.

“Both heroin and fentanyl use disorders have similar signs. If you suspect a loved one is using fentanyl or heroin, they might have burnt spoons, syringes, missing shoelaces, or small bags with powder. They might also have behavioral signs, including a change in attitude or personality. Changes in hobbies and sports may happen. Grades and work performance might decrease. They might also avoid family or friends, including isolation and secretive behavior.

Physical signs might also be present in those using heroin and fentanyl. One such sign is a decreased breathing rate. They might be drowsy and have intense flu-like symptoms. Others will lose or increase their appetite, which can lead to weight loss or gain. If people inject either substance, they might wear long sleeves or hide their arms,” the article continues.

ReVIDA® Recovery has been helping many reclaim their lives from opioid use disorder. Their program offers medication-assisted treatment and outpatient therapy to treat heroin and fentanyl use disorders. With locations throughout Appalachia in Tennessee and Virginia, they are easily accessible and offer same-day appointments. They take private insurance as well as Medicaid.

To learn more about ReVIDA® Recovery, call 423-631-0432 or visit their website.