Fentanyl

Abstract

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.