Why Is Fentanyl So Deadly?

Fentanyl has become one of the significant causes of death across the United States over the past few years. Due to the proverbial "perfect storm" that was the pandemic, using substances like fentanyl has become more common as people's lives have been turned upside down and agents of stress relief have become even more sought after. 

Fentanyl, even in the most minute dose, is a killer. There are over 170 people who die each day because of fentanyl poisoning, and there are more individuals in danger of overdose as the stakes continue to rise.

Why Is Fentanyl the Leading Cause of Death?

The danger of Fentanyl is not a new concept to Americans. Fentanyl has been found in multiple different drugs on the street and has led to countless overdoses. For example, in 2019, suicide accounted for over 21,000 deaths, and Fentanyl 22,000. However, in 2020 the numbers increased dramatically.

Suicide rates continued to increase; however, fentanyl-induced death from overdose increased to over 35,000. That is a massive jump in only a single year. Why would fentanyl be the leading cause of death? The answer becomes apparent when looking into substance use as a whole.

The level of substance use has increased over the previous years and accounts for over 64% of the deaths recorded. The recent pandemic contributed to a considerable rise in statistics regarding individuals using substances because of the impact on their mental health.

When an individual's mental health is neglected, or stress reigns supreme, most people try to find ways to cope with it. Substance use can be one of the easiest ways to do so. Over time, as individuals continue to use drugs and alcohol, they may unknowingly and unintentionally lead themselves into a substance use disorder. 

Frequently using more of a substance can easily become a problem. When individuals use substances more often, they put themselves at risk for potential overdose and fatal outcomes.

Another reason why fentanyl is a leading cause of death is outside drug lacing. Many inexpensive illicit drugs on the street are now laced with fentanyl because it produces a stronger, more potent drug than previously manufactured. Some of the street drugs laced with fentanyl include ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin. When individuals have a substance use disorder, regardless of the substance, and are unaware of the fentanyl inside, they are more likely to overdose.

The Fear of Withdrawal From Fentanyl

Fentanyl is known to be one of the most potent chemicals in the streets. It is cheap and inexpensive to create, therefore, more drugs are contaminated with it. Fentanyl poisoning has become a common danger within society, and it is essential to notify someone when suspecting a substance use disorder. Many individuals find it challenging to eliminate substances from their life even if they know it is dangerous.

Some of this can be attributed to the withdrawal phase, as many people fear the pain, discomfort, and other unpleasant symptoms. Additionally, some withdrawal symptoms can be psychological and impact an individual's decision-making and behavior. This can cause them to experience a dangerous state without professional help.

Many individuals feel that they have no choice to stop using and will continue to as a means to cope with the stress of day-to-day life. Some individuals may even consume more of the substance to avoid withdrawal symptoms. This decision leads to potentially severe risks of overdose and fatalities. This reinforces fentanyl to be one of the leading causes of death across the United States.

Reaching out and speaking to someone is the first step to eliminating vulnerability. It may seem scary at first to talk to an addiction recovery specialist, but there are treatment programs put into place to help individuals stop substance use in a medical setting where they can have support and comfort.

In a professional environment such as an addiction center, individuals can detox safely and comfortably. It is essential to know that some of the substances on the street are cut with fentanyl, and individuals may be at risk even if they feel their drug is "clean."

Everyone deserves to eliminate the stress from their lives and instill healthy habits to regain control and happiness.

Don’t Be A Statistic – Seek Help Today

If you want to stay safe, reaching out for help is a way for you to avoid being a statistic. With professional help from The Forge Recovery Center, our admissions specialists can talk to you about your specific situation and your needs.

Minimize your risk of being part of the leading cause of death in the United States and find a way to eliminate the stress in your life. Call the Forge today.

Written by

Brian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

May 11, 2022