Which Opioid Is 100 Times As Potent As Morphine?

The prescription opioid fentanyl is between 50-100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl is one of the most potent opioids that is commonly abused.

Because of fentanyl’s potency, people who take this drug are at an increased risk of deadly overdose and may experience severe side effects and withdrawals.

What Does Fentanyl Do?

Fentanyl binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain, which facilitates dopamine release, pain relief, emotional regulation, and other functions.

Like other opioids that are abused, fentanyl slows down the central nervous system and can create feelings of intense euphoria.

Other effects of fentanyl use include:

• extreme happiness
• drowsiness
• nausea
• confusion
• constipation
• sedation
• problems breathing
• unconsciousness

Fentanyl Addiction And Dependence

A person can become both physically dependent on and emotionally addicted to fentanyl.

Addiction can cause drug cravings and a preoccupation with getting the substance, while dependence leads to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not present.

Some common withdrawals symptoms associated with fentanyl dependence include:

• fever symptoms
• muscle and bone pain
• insomnia
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• cold flashes
• goosebumps
• uncontrollable leg movements

Overdose Risk With Fentanyl Abuse

Because of fentanyl’s potency, it is very dangerous to take without a doctor’s supervision. A fentanyl overdose can result in permanent brain damage and death.

If recognized early enough, a potentially deadly overdose can be reversed by proper administration of naloxone (Narcan).

Some signs of an opioid overdose include:

• seizures
• blue fingernails/lips
• cold, clammy skin
• gurgling noises
• trouble breathing
• changes in pupil size
• coma

Recognizing Fentanyl

Fentanyl is commonly prescribed as a transdermal patch or in tablet form. Some prescription names include:

• Actiq
• Duragesic
• Sublimaze

Everyday Street Names For Fentanyl

Fentanyl can be illegally sold as a prescription medication or synthesized in illegal labs. People frequently take fentanyl by smoking, injecting, snorting, or swallowing pills.

• Apache
• Dance Fever
• Friend
• Goodfellas
• Jackpot
• Murder 8
• Tango & Cash

Other Potent Opioids

Carfentanil is 10,000 times as potent as morphine. It is typically used in veterinary applications as a veterinary sedative and pain medication.

Ingesting carfentanil in even the smallest quantity can lead to overdose and death.

Getting Help For Fentanyl Abuse

If you or a loved one abuses strong opioids like fentanyl, recovery is possible. Call our helpline to learn about the best treatment options for your needs. Don’t wait — we’re here to help.

Published on June 9, 2021

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff