Alex's Answer

Hi there and welcome to Ask Alex, 

You have asked us to compare cocaine and fentanyl, so without further explanation, we will tell you of the dangers associated with both.. Both drugs are very dangerous and pose a great risk to the health of those who take them, or even imminent death. We want to stress the fact that neither of them should be chosen, and we will explain why. 

Following the information of drugs.ie, cocaine is a strong but short acting stimulant drug which comes in a white powder.  As a stimulant, it will give a rush to the body, a boost of energy, confidence or alertness for a short period of time. Taking cocaine regularly can lead to insomnia, tightness in the chest, inability to relax, mood swings, aggressiveness, eating disorders, nose and kidney damage, breathing problems, paranoia, to name but a few. Overdosing on cocaine can cause epileptic fit, stroke, breathing problems and heart attack. 

Fentanyl is a prescription drug used to treat severe pain. It’s also made and used illegally for recreational purpose. This addictive, synthetic opioid is about 50-100 times more potent than morphine, according to the www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/index.html.  Illegal fentanyl is sometimes mixed into other drugs—often without the user’s knowledge. A potentially lethal dose of fentanyl could be the size of a grain of salt. This means that, if cocaine contains just two small milligrams of fentanyl, there is a tall chance the user will not wake up from it. Fentanyl side effects are often serious. Overdosing leads to slowed or stopped breathing which subsequently can cause brain damage. If left untreated, overdose from cocaine with fentanyl can result in death. 

We are unsure of the ultimate motive of your question, and we are worried that you could be asking as if trying to choose which one to take. As we said above, neither should be taken. If you are feeling pressured into taking these illegal drugs this article from the Childline website may be helpful www.childline.ie/drugs-alcohol-and-smoking/. If you are experiencing addiction, know that there are services around you who could support you. Please, click on this HSE link to find out which services are available in your area www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/addiction/. If you are experiencing low mood or suicidal ideation, please note Pieta House would be the service to contact. www.pietahouse.ie.  

If you need someone to talk to regarding the above, and talking to someone you trust is not possible, know Childline is always here for you. We can be contacted through our freephone number 1800 66 66 66 or you can use the Live Chat on our website www.childline.ie.  We are here 24/7 for you, should you need us. You do not have to go through anything on your own. There are people and supports services available for you.

We hope this helps. Please take care of yourself, 

Alex