The fentanyl crisis in Arizona is escalating with a growing number of overdoses and deaths. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid and is the leading cause of opioid-related fatalities across Arizona. Read our guide of frequently asked fentanyl questions to learn about the drug, treatment options, and how to protect yourself from it.
Arizona Fentanyl Statistics
Here’s a breakdown of the statistics related to fentanyl in Arizona:
- There are around 2,000 deaths annually from fentanyl-related overdoses, or 5-6 deaths a day.
- Between January and October of 2023, nearly 12,000 opioid-related ER visits were reported in Arizona.
- There were about 21,900 emergency and inpatient visits in 2023 from opioid-suspected activity.
Beyond the human impact, the economic cost of fentanyl is high. In 2023, the fentanyl and opioid crisis cost Arizona about $58 billion. This includes the costs of hospital visits, substance treatment, law enforcement, and other related expenses.
With costs tripling over the last decade, Arizona is in desperate need of both affordable and accessible drug addiction treatment options.
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, used for pain relief for conditions like cancer and anesthetic for surgery. It is illicitly manufactured and sold on the black market, making it the leading cause of overdose deaths across the United States.
Is Fentanyl an Opioid?
Yes, fentanyl is a potent opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. By binding opioid receptors in the brain that control emotion, fentanyl works to reduce sensations of pain. But, its strength and the brain’s adaptability to it, make it extremely risky, especially when used without medical supervision.
Is Fentanyl Addictive?
Fentanyl is highly addictive, like other opioids. In a short period, regular use can create physical dependence and psychological addiction. Many people become addicted to fentanyl after being prescribed it for pain management. Other people unknowingly consume it when it’s mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine. Because it is less expensive to produce, it is often found mixed with other drugs.
How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
The effects of fentanyl are felt almost immediately after use, and it doesn’t stay in the body for long. Here is how long fentanyl typically lasts in the body:
- Urine Test: 24 to 72 hours after the last dose
- Blood Analysis: 5 to 48 hours after the last dose
- Hair Test: Up to three months after the last dose
- Saliva Tests: Can not be consistently detected, even if taken orally
Why is Fentanyl So Dangerous?
Small amounts of fentanyl can be deadly – its extreme potency is what makes it dangerous. Even two milligrams, or about 5-7 grains of salt, can cause a person to overdose. Because it is often laced with street drugs and counterfeit prescription pills, many people don’t even know they’re taking it.
How Much Fentanyl Can Kill You?
As little as two milligrams of fentanyl, an amount that could fit in the tip of a pencil, is fatal. Accidental overdoses are unfortunately very common, especially for those taking illicit drugs who didn’t know they had also ingested fentanyl.
Does Narcan Work on Fentanyl?
Yes, Narcan (naloxone, an opioid antagonist), usually available as a nasal spray, can reverse an opioid overdose, including fentanyl. Multiple doses might be necessary due to the potency of fentanyl to save someone from experiencing a fatal overdose. If you or someone you know is experiencing a suspected overdose of fentanyl, it is important to administer Narcan immediately and call emergency services.
How to Use Fentanyl Test Strips
To detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs, fentanyl test strips are an important resource. They are easy to use. Mix a solution of the drug with water and dip the test strip into it as a quick and easy way to detect if fentanyl is present. Using these test strips can help people make informed decisions and reduce the risk of accidental overdose.
Fentanyl & Drug Addiction Treatment Options
With the right support and resources, recovery from fentanyl addiction is possible. Drug treatment facilities in Arizona, including Axiom Care, offer options to overcome addiction. Our goal is to provide a safe and compassionate environment for those on the road to recovery.
Detox Treatment
Our medically supervised detox assists individuals in safely withdrawal from fentanyl and other substances. We offer 24/7 monitoring and support to minimize discomfort. Detox is the first and most crucial step toward recovery.
Inpatient Treatment
Residential inpatient treatment provides a structured and immersive environment to help individuals focus solely on recovery. Inpatient care at Axiom Care includes individual counseling, group therapy, skill-building, and life preparation to address underlying causes of addiction and identify potential triggers.
Crisis Care
For people in immediate need of fentanyl overdose or addiction care, Axiom Care’s Crisis Stabilization provides urgent medical support. From severe withdrawals to mental health crises, our team provides intervention and short-term care to stabilize individuals before transitioning to the next level of treatment.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT is a proven approach for treating opioid addiction, including fentanyl. At Axiom Care, our treatment combines medications like buprenorphine with behavioral therapies for a holistic approach to recovery. Using an approach like MAT can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 41% of people who experience MAT for opioid recovery achieve long-term sobriety.
Each person’s recovery journey is unique, so Axiom Care’s drug addiction treatment can be tailored to meet individual needs.
Reach Out to Drug Treatment Facilities Near You for Help
Fentanyl addiction is a serious and life-threatening condition. Recovery is possible for those suffering from addiction. At Axiom Care, our team provides drug addiction treatment options, including detox and inpatient rehabilitation. Contact our team for guidance and support today.