The opioid epidemic is far from over, and despite the heartbreaking toll it has taken on our nation, new opioid medications are still being introduced. DSUVIA, a painkiller 10 times stronger than fentanyl, is now under consideration by the FDA for approval. While it’s designed to offer quick, powerful pain relief, it comes with serious concerns—especially given its potential for misuse and overdose. Let’s break down what DSUVIA is, and why many are questioning whether we need a new opioid on the market.
What is DSUVIA and How Is It Used?
DSUVIA is a new, potent drug that combines a fast-acting applicator with a powerful painkiller. When administered, the tablet is placed under the tongue, where it dissolves almost instantly, delivering rapid relief for severe pain. It’s designed for patients who can’t find relief from other pain medications, but this quick action comes with a heightened risk of overdose and dependence.
Because of DSUVIA’s potency and potential for misuse, it’s only available through a highly regulated program known as REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy). If approved, DSUVIA will only be administered in certified healthcare settings—where trained professionals can closely monitor its effects. While it might seem like a good solution for managing severe pain, it’s a strict measure to ensure safety and prevent misuse. The FDA is expected to make a final decision regarding the approval of DSUVIA no later than November 3, 2018.
DSUVIA and the Risk for Drug Diversion
Drug diversion is defined as the deflection of prescription medications from medical sources into the illegal market. Next to benzodiazepines and prescription stimulants used to treat ADHD, opioids are among the most common types of medications diverted for illegal use. Drug diversion can happen when people steal or buy medications from others, change or sign prescriptions, and visit multiple doctors to get extra prescriptions.
While DSUVIA is only supposed to be administered by healthcare professionals, the reality is that potent opioids like this are still vulnerable to misuse and theft. Once the drug leaves the medical setting, there’s always the chance it could fall into the wrong hands. And given DSUVIA’s strength—up to 10 times stronger than fentanyl—this is a real danger for overdose and fatal consequences. The risks of diversion and misuse are a major concern for both patients and the healthcare system.
Short-Term Use & Addiction Concerns of DSUVIA
Like most opioids, DSUVIA carries the risk of addiction, especially if used beyond the recommended duration. While it’s effective for short-term pain management (72 hours or less), prolonged use can lead to physical dependence. It’s crucial to use DSUVIA only under strict supervision to manage pain effectively and avoid falling into the trap of addiction. That said, for those with severe pain, it’s important to balance the risk of dependence with the need for relief—under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Side Effects of DSUVIA & What to Watch For
As with any potent opioid, DSUVIA comes with serious side effects. Overdose is a real risk, especially with misuse, and symptoms can include extreme dizziness, slow heartbeat, shallow breathing, or even loss of consciousness. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention. If you or someone you love is using DSUVIA, make sure you’re aware of these signs and get help right away if needed.
Opioid and Fentanyl Overdose Statistics
- More than 115 people in the U.S. die from an opioid overdose every day.
- Between 21 and 29% of people who use opioids for chronic pain misuse their medications.
- The number of opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. increased 4.1-fold from 2002 to 2017.
- More than 350,000 people in the U.S. died from opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2016.
- Between 4 and 6% of people who misuse their painkillers end up transitioning to heroin.
- Between 8 and 12% of people who use painkillers end up suffering from opioid use disorder, which can be safely treated at drug rehab using medical detox.
- Roughly 66% of the estimated 63,600 drug overdose deaths in 2016 involved opioids.
- Synthetic opioids like fentanyl were involved in nearly 50% of opioid-related deaths in 2016.
These statistics reveal the growing danger opioids pose to public health, especially with powerful drugs like DSUVIA entering the market. The fight against this epidemic requires greater awareness, safer prescribing practices, and expanded access to addiction treatment.
Why Detox is Critical in Opioid Addiction Treatment
Opioids are highly addictive drugs that can be difficult to stop using on behalf of severe drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Many who try quitting opioids on their own without professional treatment end up relapsing to relieve their symptoms and end up suffering an unintentional overdose.
Drug detox for opioids involves the use of medications that relieve opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms so people can safely overcome opioid dependence with a reduced risk for relapse and overdose. Drug detox in California is safest when conducted in an inpatient residential rehab center where patients can be closely monitored by medical staff during withdrawal. After opioid detox, patients can receive therapies that treat the underlying causes of their addiction, such as stress and mental health disorders, so they can stay abstinent long-term following their treatment programs.
If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid dependence, there’s no need to face it alone. At America’s Rehab Campuses, we offer personalized care that includes medically supervised detox and a variety of evidence-based therapies to help you break free from the cycle of addiction. Reach out to us today to take the first step toward a healthier, opioid-free future.
