Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and about 100 times stronger than morphine, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Under the supervision of medical professionals, fentanyl is commonly used to treat chronic severe pain or pain following surgery. But fentanyl is highly addictive and can cause dependence within a few weeks. Dr. Aleka Heinrici, Director of Substance Use Disorder Services as San Ysidro Health, explains.
Alcohol and drug addiction are referred to by medical professionals as Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). According to addiction specialists, SUDs result from changes in the brain that take place with repeated and uncontrolled use of alcohol or drugs. The most severe expression of the disorder is associated with changes in the function of brain circuits involved in pleasure (the reward system), learning, stress, decision making, and self-control. Dr. Heinrici breaks down how the addicted brain works.