Everyday Pills to Avoid If You're Addicted to Fentanyl
Fentanyl addiction is a growing concern in the United States. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. It is commonly used to manage severe pain, such as that experienced by patients with cancer or chronic pain. However, it is also being increasingly used illicitly as a recreational drug. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl was involved in more than 36,000 overdose deaths in 2019 alone, making it the most commonly identified drug in overdose deaths in the United States.
If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is important to be aware of the everyday pills that you should avoid taking. Certain medications can interact with fentanyl and potentially lead to serious health complications or even overdose.
Opioid Pain Medications
One of the most important pills to avoid if you are addicted to fentanyl is any type of pain reliever that contains opioids. Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain medications such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine, as well as illicit drugs such as heroin. Fentanyl is also an opioid.
Taking other opioids while using fentanyl can be dangerous because they act on the same receptors in the brain and can increase the risk of respiratory depression. Respiratory depression is a serious condition that occurs when breathing slows down or stops altogether, leading to a lack of oxygen in the body and potentially causing brain damage or death.
If you have been prescribed an opioid pain medication for a medical condition, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping the medication or switching to a non-opioid pain medication. Abruptly stopping opioids can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
Sedatives and Tranquilizers
Sedatives and tranquilizers, such as benzodiazepines, are medications that are used to manage anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. Benzodiazepines work by slowing down activity in the brain and nervous system, which can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation.
However, taking benzodiazepines with fentanyl can be dangerous because both drugs can cause respiratory depression. When taken together, the risk of respiratory depression increases, which can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body and potentially cause brain damage or death.
Other medications that can interact with fentanyl in a similar way include barbiturates, which are a class of drugs that are used to treat seizures, and certain sleep medications, such as zolpidem.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are a class of drugs that are used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. There are several different types of antidepressants, each with its own unique mechanism of action.
However, certain antidepressants can interact with fentanyl and increase the risk of respiratory depression. These include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). MAOIs are an older class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. TCAs work by increasing the activity of these neurotransmitters in the brain.
If you are taking an antidepressant and are concerned about how it may interact with fentanyl, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual situation.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are medications that are used to manage allergies, colds, and other conditions that cause sneezing, runny nose, and itching. There are several different types of antihistamines, including first-generation and second-generation antihistamines.
While antihistamines are generally safe and effective medications, certain types can interact with fentanyl and cause adverse effects. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, can cause drowsiness and sedation, which can increase the risk of respiratory depression when taken with fentanyl.
Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine and cetirizine, are less likely to cause drowsiness and sedation. However, they can still interact with fentanyl and should be used with caution.
Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants are medications that are used to relieve muscle spasms and stiffness. They work by reducing muscle activity and promoting relaxation.
However, muscle relaxants can also interact with fentanyl and increase the risk of respiratory depression. Common muscle relaxants include carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine, and methocarbamol.
If you are taking a muscle relaxant and are concerned about how it may interact with fentanyl, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual situation.
Other Medications to Avoid
In addition to the medications mentioned above, there are several other types of medications that you should avoid if you are addicted to fentanyl. These include:
Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while using fentanyl can increase the risk of respiratory depression and potentially lead to a dangerous overdose.
Stimulants: Stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can counteract the effects of opioids and increase the risk of overdose.
Certain antibiotics: Some antibiotics, such as erythromycin and clarithromycin, can increase the levels of fentanyl in the body and potentially lead to an overdose.
If you are addicted to fentanyl, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with other medications and substances. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new medications or substances, and never mix fentanyl with other drugs or alcohol.
Getting Help for Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl addiction is a serious condition that requires professional help and treatment. If you are struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
There are several different types of treatment options available for fentanyl addiction, including:
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): MAT involves the use of medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management, can help individuals develop coping skills and strategies to manage their addiction.
Support groups: Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals in recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with fentanyl addiction, it is important to seek help and support. With the right treatment and resources, recovery is possible.