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Fentanyl as a Public Health Concern Essay

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Introduction

It is important to note that the opioid crisis in the United States is an epidemic of massive proportions. The given analysis will focus on fentanyl, a synthetic and deadly opioid, and three concepts to be used endorphins, neurotransmitters, and the hypothalamus. The evaluation of the drug will address its effects on three levels, which include mind-body, relational, and societal impacts. Thesis: The use and abuse of fentanyl demonstrate the complex interplay between the mind and body, strain interpersonal relationships, and contribute to societal challenges, making it a significant public health concern.

Mind-Body Impact

Firstly, one should be aware that fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid, which deeply impacts the tight interconnection between one’s mind and body. It stimulates the brain by acting as a neurotransmitter, where it binds to specific mu-receptors, which leads to a reduced feeling of pain. The given process stimulates endorphin release, which can be considered the body’s natural pain relief mechanism (Spencer et al., 2019). The outcome of the process is euphoria, drowsiness, and relaxation. In addition, both GABA and glutamate neurotransmitters can be at play as well since they have a role in mood and pain regulation. The drug does not contain dopamine, but it indirectly affects dopamine release by triggering the reward pathway in the brain.

The interaction between neurotransmitters, endorphins, and various parts of the brain, such as the hypothalamus, shapes the experience of someone using fentanyl. One study examined how fentanyl and naloxone impacted glutamate and GABA release rates in the front part of the hypothalamus in rats that could move freely (Pourzitaki et al., 2018). This research showed that the drug could adjust the balance of stimulating and calming signals in this crucial brain area. As a result, people who take fentanyl notice significant changes in how they perceive pain and their emotional well-being.

Relational Impact

Secondly, fentanyl can severely impact a person’s relationships with others, especially close family members and friends. Prolonged fentanyl use may negatively affect personal connections as it alters mood, actions, and judgment. This disruption can hinder social interactions and strain family ties, work dynamics, and intimate partnerships (Spencer et al., 2019). The consequences of chronic use can lead to isolation and fractured support systems, compounding the challenges faced by those grappling with addiction. Therefore, fentanyl can make an addict deeply isolated from the most important people in a person’s life.

Societal Impact

Thirdly, the most devastating effect of fentanyl is its societal impact, which manifests itself in an epidemic. As a major contributor to the opioid crisis, fentanyl has led to a surge in overdose fatalities and placed substantial strain on healthcare providers, law enforcement, and local communities. The illegal production, trade, and distribution of drugs also drive criminal enterprises, giving rise to additional problems in society (Spencer et al., 2019). The far-reaching impacts of fentanyl touch countless lives, demanding urgent action to address this growing public health emergency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fentanyl is a major public health concern because it heavily alters the mind and body, strains interpersonal relationships, and contributes to societal disruptions. The drug’s complex effects on brain chemistry, coupled with its capacity to disrupt personal relationships and exacerbate public health issues, highlight the need for comprehensive and targeted interventions. Addressing this crisis demands collaborative efforts from healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to tackle addiction, support recovery, and ultimately safeguard the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

References

Pourzitaki, C., Tsaousi, G., Papazisis, G., Kyrgidis, A., Zacharis, C., Kritis, A., Malliou, F., & Kouvelas, D. (2018). . European Journal of Pharmacology, 834, 169-175. Web.

Spencer, M. R., Warner, M., Bastian, B. A., Trinidad, J. P., & Hedegaard, H. (2019). . National Vital Statistics Reports: From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, National Vital Statistics System, 68(3), 1-19. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2024) 'Fentanyl as a Public Health Concern'. 22 May.

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IvyPanda. 2024. "Fentanyl as a Public Health Concern." May 22, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/fentanyl-as-a-public-health-concern/.

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