Fentanyl is an opioid usually used in general anaesthesia, due to which it is
also called an analgesic drug. These drugs can relieve the pain within the body by
blocking the neurotransmitters or chemicals that cause pain in the body. Opioids can
work in both the ascending pathways of the brain as well as the descending pathways
of the brain for pain modulation. Fentanyl is more potent than morphine and herion.
Fentanyl is also given as transdermal patches or lozenges in the treatment of pain
management. Fentanyl is also sold illegally and can cause of death too when abused.
Because of its strong property to be addicted, fentanyl also is mixed with the heroine.
Moreover, fentanyl has its own effects during withdrawal, which causes behaviour
changes. Fentanyl can bind to μ-opioid receptors (MORs) to exert its effects. In
addition, fentanyl abuse is becoming more common globally. Fentanyl causes the brain
to suffocate by decreasing the oxygen supply, causing hypoxia and hyperglycemia as
well. Fentanyl abuse can cause serious cognitive issues, leading to severe structural
damage manifested as hormonal and neuronal disturbances. By suppressing the two
brainstem areas, opioids cause disturbances to breathing.
Keywords: Addiction, Decreasing oxygen supply, Hyperglycemia, Opioid, μ-opioid receptors (MORs).
