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Get the Facts on Fentanyl

Fentanyl
Overdose
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What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. Fentanyl has been found in substances such as heroin, meth, MDMA (ecstasy/molly), cocaine, and other recreational drugs due to its low cost. It is estimated that fentanyl may be responsible for 75% of all drug overdose-related deaths. 

Why Is Fentanyl Dangerous?

The high potency of fentanyl greatly increases the risk of overdose. People may not be aware they are consuming it because it can be disguised as other drugs and is nearly impossible to detect. Fentanyl has no specific look or smell, and without being aware of its presence, it can be easy to underestimate how much is being consumed, resulting in overdose. As little as a grain of fentanyl can be enough to cause harm or even a fatal overdose. 

Infographic reading "Why is fentanyl dangerous? Fentanyl is 50-100x more potent than morphine, increasing risk of overdose. And is responsible for 75% of all drug overdose deaths. Only 2 milligrams can cause a lethal overdose. Fentanyl is nearly impossible to detect because it lacks a specific look, taste, or smell."
Infographic reading "7 out of 10 counterfeit pills contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. If you don't know the source of a substance, you don't know what it contains."

What Are The Signs Of An Overdose?

An overdose occurs when a drug produces serious adverse effects and life-threatening symptoms. When people overdose on fentanyl, their breathing can slow or stop. This decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches the brain, leading to a coma, permanent brain damage, and even death.

Common signs of an overdose & how to stay safe. Slowed heartbeat or no detectable pulse; non-responsiveness to sound or stimulation; pale or blue skin that is cold or slimy to the touch; may resemble sleep or excessive alcohol consumption; difficulty breathing, walking, or talking. Carry naloxone: naloxone is an over-the-counter nasal spray that reverses the effects of opioid overdose. Multiple doses may be needed. If someone is not experiencing an overdose, Naloxone has no negative effects.

If you suspect someone has overdosed, the most important step to take is to call 911 so they can receive immediate medical attention. 

Banner reading "Learn more about naloxone & who should use it."

Naloxone is a medicine that can be given to a person to reverse a fentanyl overdose. Even if a person is not experiencing an overdose, giving them naloxone will not hurt them. If you notice the signs of overdose, always provide naloxone anyway to be safe and call 911. To learn more, read our blog What is Naloxone and who should carry it? 

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