Fentanyl Transdermal Patch Misuse and Dependence: Find Recovery at Drug Treatment Centers in Hagerstown, MD

Hagerstown got its nickname “Hub City” because it was a central point for many railroads and roads. It was a big deal for the Western Maryland Railway and an essential stop for other significant railroads, such as the Pennsylvania, Baltimore, and Ohio. Despite its progress and competitive edge compared to neighboring areas, Hagerstown also faces the challenge of the opioid crisis. From 2017 to 2021, Washington County, where Hagerstown is located, had an average of 82.6 opioid overdose deaths per year, which is an 84.31% increase. Despite making up only 2.51% of Maryland’s population, the county is significantly affected by opioid-related fatalities. [1]

One of the leading causes contributing to the surge in opioid overdose deaths in Washington County is the presence of fentanyl. This synthetic opioid, considerably more potent than morphine, poses a grave risk due to its potency and widespread availability in illicit drug markets. The transdermal formulation of fentanyl, often administered through patches, presents a particularly concerning aspect of this crisis. While designed for controlled pain management in patients with chronic conditions, these patches can also be diverted for misuse and abuse. Individuals seeking a quick and intense high may tamper with these patches to extract the concentrated fentanyl gel, leading to potentially fatal overdoses. Furthermore, the stealthy nature of transdermal fentanyl patch misuse presents challenges in detection and intervention, exacerbating the severity of the opioid crisis.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with fentanyl addiction, know that you’re not alone in facing this difficult journey. Maryland drug treatment centers offer professional assistance and compassionate support to help individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives from the grip of fentanyl. Seeking help from these Hagerstown drug treatment centers can also provide valuable guidance and resources to navigate the challenges of addiction recovery.

How Many Overdoses Are There in Maryland?

Since July 2013, Maryland has been facing a severe problem with illicit fentanyl overdose deaths. From July 2013 to February 2015, a study analyzed data from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. They found 266 fentanyl-related deaths. The number of monthly deaths generally rose from July 2013 to June 2014, then dropped sharply in August 2014 before steadily increasing until February 2015. The deaths initially started in Baltimore City and then spread across the state in the following years. [2]

In 2021, Maryland experienced a staggering 2,737 overdose deaths, equating to a chilling rate of 42.8 deaths per 100,000 people (age-adjusted), highlighting a severe and urgent public health crisis. [3] During the same year, Maryland recorded 2,460 deaths from opioid overdoses, making up 90% of all drug overdose deaths in the state. Nationally, opioid overdoses comprised 75% of all drug overdose deaths in the U.S. [4]

Fentanyl, a highly potent narcotic, is often prescribed for severe, chronic pain due to its potency and quick action. However, its properties have led to the development of patches for dosing. In the 1990s, there was a surge in prescribed fentanyl patches, which led to abuse and overdose deaths. From April 2005 to March 2007, there was an epidemic of illicitly produced fentanyl-related deaths in several states, claiming over 1000 lives in the U.SS. These deaths often involved fentanyl mixed with heroin or cocaine, indicating connections to illicit drug distribution networks. Since 2013, there has been a more recent surge in illegal fentanyl-related deaths, particularly in Ohio and Maryland, often in combination with heroin and cocaine. [5]

Can You Drink Beer While on a Fentanyl Patch?

If you’re using a fentanyl transdermal patch, it’s crucial to avoid alcohol. Here’s why:

• Interaction Risk: Alcohol can intensify the potent effects of fentanyl. Combined, they depress the central nervous system, leading to dangerous consequences.
• Nervous System Effects: Alcohol and fentanyl together can cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, and difficulty concentrating. Your thinking and judgment may also be impaired.
• Severe Outcomes: In severe cases, this combination can lead to low blood pressure, respiratory distress, fainting, coma, or even death.

Remember, safety comes first. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding any medication interactions, including fentanyl. Do not use more than the recommended dose of fentanyl, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you understand how the medication affects you.

Alcohol and Fentanyl Side Effects Table

Are you or someone you know struggling with alcohol or drug abuse? You’re not alone, and there is hope. AA meetings in Hagerstown offer a supportive community where individuals can share their experiences, receive encouragement, and find strength in their journey toward recovery. Combined with therapies and rehabilitation, attending AA meetings can be a crucial step towards overcoming addiction and reclaiming your life. Don’t suffer in silence. Join us at AA meetings in Hagerstown to connect with others who understand what you’re going through and to access professional help and resources.

What Food Interacts with Fentanyl Patches?

Fentanyl patches, as potent opioid medications, can interact with various foods due to their medical properties and potential alterations in drug absorption, metabolism, and distribution. Here are the most common types of foods that may interact with fentanyl patches:

• Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit contains compounds that inhibit a specific enzyme system, which is responsible for the metabolism of fentanyl. Inhibition of this enzyme can lead to increased fentanyl blood levels, potentially enhancing its effects and increasing the risk of respiratory depression and other opioid-related side effects.
• High-Fat Foods: Consumption of high-fat meals can delay the absorption of fentanyl through the skin. Fatty foods can affect skin permeability and blood flow, potentially altering the rate and extent of fentanyl absorption from the patch.
• St. John’s Wort: St. John’s Wort is an herbal supplement commonly used for depression and anxiety. It induces the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, which may accelerate the metabolism of fentanyl, reducing its efficacy and potentially leading to inadequate pain control.
• Licorice: Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which inhibits the enzyme involved in the metabolism of corticosteroids, which can affect the metabolism of fentanyl and increase blood levels.
• Tyramine-Rich Foods: Tyramine-rich foods, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and fermented products, can interact with fentanyl patches. Tyramine can stimulate the release of norepinephrine, potentially increasing blood pressure and heart rate, which may interact with the cardiovascular effects of fentanyl.
• High-Protein Foods: High-protein meals can affect gastric emptying and gastrointestinal motility, potentially altering the absorption of fentanyl from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Caffeine: Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and certain soft drinks, can stimulate the central nervous system. When combined with fentanyl, caffeine may exacerbate opioid-related side effects such as anxiety, agitation, and insomnia.
• Spicy Foods: Spicy foods containing capsaicin may increase blood flow and skin permeability, potentially affecting the absorption of fentanyl from transdermal patches.

It’s essential for individuals using fentanyl patches to consult with healthcare professionals regarding potential food interactions and to follow prescribed guidelines for medication use to ensure optimal safety and efficacy.

Fentanyl Patch Misuse and Drug Addiction Treatment Centers in Hagerstown, Maryland

Fentanyl and similar synthetic opioids are highly dangerous, even in tiny amounts, and are a significant cause of overdose deaths. Each day, over 150 people die from overdoses linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl in the US. [6] It’s crucial to understand that drugs might contain lethal levels of fentanyl without any visible signs. Testing your drugs with fentanyl test strips is essential, as it’s the only way to know for sure. These affordable test strips provide results in just 5 minutes, potentially saving lives. However, while these strips can detect fentanyl, they might not pick up on more potent substances like carfentanil, so caution is always advised.

While medicinal fentanyl patches are prescribed for severe pain management, they can also be as dangerous as illegally made fentanyl if misused or if the dosage isn’t closely monitored. It’s crucial to follow the doctor’s instructions precisely and never use more than prescribed. Moreover, keep fentanyl patches away from children and pets, as even small amounts can be fatal if ingested accidentally. If you have unused patches, dispose of them properly by following the instructions or returning them to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Always handle fentanyl patches with caution and seek immediate medical help if you suspect an overdose or encounter any adverse effects.

Recovery from fentanyl addiction can be challenging, but it’s crucial to take that first step towards a better life. At drug treatment centers in Hagerstown, medical professionals understand the challenges you may face and offer a variety of treatment options to help you overcome addiction and reclaim control.

• Fentanyl Detoxification: Starting with detox, they help rid your body of fentanyl and manage withdrawal symptoms, setting the stage for further treatment.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment: With medications like methadone and buprenorphine, they ease cravings and withdrawal, making recovery more manageable.
• Therapeutic Interventions: The personalized therapy options, including motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and group therapy, address the mental and emotional aspects of addiction.

Don’t wait to seek help—recovery is possible with the proper support. Contact drug treatment centers in Maryland today to begin your journey toward lasting sobriety.

Resources: 

[1] Overdose Deaths in Maryland – Maryland (.gov)

[2,5] Alexander RT, Hedrick CW, Alexander SD, Jufer-Phipps R, Fowler DR. Epidemic Fentanyl Deaths in Maryland: A Public Health Intervention Involving Geographic Information Systems and Collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration. Acad Forensic Pathol. 2016 Jun;6(2):301-314. Doi: 10.23907/2016.031. Epub 2016 Jun 1. PMID: 31239901; PMCID: PMC6507002.

[3] Maryland Priority Topic Investments – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

[4] Mental Health in Maryland – KFF (The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news.)

[6] Fentanyl Facts – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)