Sublimaze is the brand name for an opioid prescription also known as Fentanyl. This drug is marketed under other brand names such as Fentora, Actiq, Duragesic, Matrifen and Instanyl to name a few. In clinical research this drug presents as a potent analgesic that is at least 20 times stronger than heroin and approximately 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine. It has typically been used to alleviate breakthrough pain such as is connected with terminal illnesses like cancer.

Sublimaze is often used in combination with a class of psychoactive drugs called benzodiazepines. The anesthetic components of benzodiazepines work in conjunction with Sublimaze in pre-surgery preparation. Sublimaze can be administered as a flavored lozenge, a transdermal patch, in tablet form or as an intravenous injection. The drug is fast acting and has been proven effective for short term pain relief.

In addition to its benefits to the medical community, Sublimaze is widely used as an illegal substance. Users have been known to combine this drug with illicit substances such as heroin and cocaine. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes these drug combinations as dangerous because of the numerous overdose deaths that has been attributed to this practice. Street names for this drug may include but is not limited to; Dance Fever, China Town, Goodfellas, Great Bear, He-Man, Jackpot, Murder 8 and Tango and Cash.

Drug Classification

Sublimaze has been classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a Schedule II Controlled Substance. Drugs with this designation have accepted medical use but with severe restrictions because they have a high potential for abuse and physical and psychological dependence. The Drug Enforcement Administration regulate the manufacture, distribution, possession, use and abuse of all Schedule II drugs. Violation is considered a criminal offense that is subject to severe penalties enforceable under Federal law.

History of Sublimaze

Sublimaze as Fentanyl was originally synthetized by Dr. Paul Janssen in in 1959 who later received a patent for the drug under his company’s name. The drug was first used as Sublimaze after it was introduced as an intravenously administered anesthetic and adopted for use in hospitals. In the 1990’s a transdermal patch underwent numerous clinical trials before it was accepted for use by the medical community. Later a flavored Sublimaze (Fentanyl) lozenge was developed to help chronic sufferers to manage their pain.

Use and Abuse

Habitual use of Sublimaze to treat chronic conditions has led to widespread abuse and addiction to this drug. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that abuse of this drug may be difficult to detect and treat. Some common indicators that Sublimaze (Fentanyl) abuse is occurring may include:

  • Always running out of the drug before it is time to renew the prescription.
  • Doctor shopping or seeking alternate sources to purchase drugs.
  • Unethical or criminal behavior to obtain drugs such lying, stealing or forging prescription.
  • Financial depletion
  • Being secretive about spending and drug use activities.

Tolerance to this drug can develop at varying rates for each individual. Some individuals may experience high tolerance levels more quickly than others. Common side effects observed in patients as well as in clinical studies include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Frequent drowsiness
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Dehydration
  • Breathing problems
  • Edema
  • Easily distracted

When user’s overdose on this drug it usually result in severe cardiovascular collapse and/or respiratory depression that may lead to coma or sudden death.

Treatment for Sublimaze

Most patients suffering from long term addiction to Sublimaze will require a comprehensive, integrated treatment program to fully rehabilitate and enjoy long term sobriety. Unpredictable and unpleasant or life threatening withdrawal symptoms may necessitate a gradual drug elimination process. When users abruptly stop using the drug they may experience adverse physical effects due to the sudden drop in endorphin levels.

Our Drug Rehab Centers provides various treatment options to make recovery from Sublimaze dependence or addiction as effortless as possible. Patients can get help on an outpatient or inpatient basis. Our programs incorporate both holistic and conventional treatment protocols that includes medical detox, pain management, dual diagnosis, relapse prevention training and aftercare services. All our treatment programs are administered by board certified, experienced psychiatrists, doctors and nurses. Each treatment program is specifically designed and is based on a thorough physical and psychological evaluation of the client. The treatment process undergoes frequent assessments and if necessary adjustments that are in the best interest of the patient. Our primary goal is for each patient to progress at their own pace in order to achieve full recovery that is sustainable after rehab.

If you or a loved one is addicted to Sublimaze (Fentanyl) or have noticed signs of a developing dependency, get help immediately by calling our Drug Rehab Treatment Centers at 877-855-3470. We can help.