Local Rehab Warns About Fentanyl-Laced Weed

Bradenton, FL – Clean Recovery Centers recently published a blog warning about the dangers of fentanyl-laced weed. They have been a leading provider of addiction treatment in the Gulf Coast area and have helped hundreds to get clean, live clean, and stay clean.

“Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin. It works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and central nervous system. Taking fentanyl causes a euphoric rush followed by drowsiness and relaxation. Weed can vary in effects, and can mimic a depressant, stimulant, or hallucinogen. Whether accidentally smoking fentanyl-laced weed, or ingesting fentanyl and weed at the same time, the risks are still hefty. Marijuana usually amplifies the mood that you are in. If you are feeling anxious or nervous, weed can make those feelings stronger. Even mixing with fentanyl may not help you relax, and can lead to an increased risk of hallucinations and psychosis. These are especially dangerous as you may engage in reckless behaviors you wouldn’t normally do. Driving erratically, unprotected sex with different partners, and increased substance use can all happen when using fentanyl-laced weed,” the article states.

Fentanyl and marijuana have different effects that can interact with each other. Common side effects of smoking fentanyl include nausea or vomiting, insomnia, chronic dry mouth, increased anxiety or depression, lethargy, and chronic lung infections. Side effects of marijuana use include amplified mood, altered sense of time, difficulty focusing or making decisions, psychosis, slowed or impaired movements, and hallucinations.

One of the dangers of fentanyl-laced weed is behaving differently. The person may engage in reckless behaviors such as driving erratically, possibly leading to serious injuries and accidents. Engaging in unprotected sex can lead to contracting HIV/AIDS. Psychosis can cause these situations not to be remembered, causing increases in depression and declines in mental health.

“Fentanyl is very potent, and as little as a few grains of sand can become lethal. When fentanyl-laced weed is ingested, both substances begin to work within the central nervous system. Fentanyl will slow vital systems such as breathing and heart rate. Marijuana can contribute to feeling even more relaxed, and increase the drowsiness already brought on by the fentanyl. The person may enjoy this feeling and continue to use the fentanyl-laced weed. This causes a build-up of fentanyl in the body, and it cannot process it fast enough. Breathing can slow and stop, causing unconsciousness. If left untreated, oxygen cannot get to vital organs, and body systems begin to shut down. This can lead to permanent organ damage, coma, and death,” the article continues.

The best way to stay protected from fentanyl-laced weed is to use fentanyl test strips. To use fentanyl test strips, place a small amount of the substance into water. Dip the test strip in the mixture and wait 2 minutes for results. A red line on the left is positive for fentanyl, while two red lines indicate a negative result. If the red line is on the right, the results are inconclusive. Fentanyl test strips have been decriminalized in Florida and are no longer considered paraphernalia.

Clean Recovery Centers educates the Suncoast communities on topics surrounding substance use disorders. Their program utilizes a unique, three-phase approach that addresses all facets of addiction: spiritual, mental, physical, and social. The team at Clean Recovery Centers is also capable of diagnosing and treating mental health conditions no matter the phase of treatment the person is in.

To learn more about Clean Recovery Centers, call (888) 330-2532 or visit their website.