What to know about Opioids/Fentanyl

  • The opioid crisis is a public health emergency characterized by a sharp increase in opioid-related overdose deaths. Opioids are powerful pain relievers, both prescription and illicit, that can be highly addictive.

  • Opioids are a class of drugs that work on the nervous system to relieve pain. They can be natural, semi-synthetic, or synthetic.

    • Natural opioids: Derived from the opium poppy plant, such as morphine and codeine.

    • Semi-synthetic opioids: Chemically altered forms of natural opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone.

    • Synthetic opioids: Man-made opioids, such as fentanyl and tramadol.

  • The opioid crisis has led to a significant increase in overdose deaths, addiction, and other health problems. Factors contributing to the crisis include:

    • Overprescription of opioid pain medications

    • Increased availability of illicit opioids, such as heroin and fentanyl

    • Lack of access to treatment and recovery services

  • If you're concerned about someone who may be struggling with opioid addiction, here are some steps you can take:

    1. Express your concern: Talk to the person openly and honestly about your worries.

    2. Encourage professional help: Suggest seeking help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.

    3. Avoid enabling behavior: Avoid covering up or making excuses for the person's behavior.

    4. Seek support for yourself: Consider joining a support group or talking to a therapist.

    • Even small amounts can be deadly.

    • Overdose can cause slowed breathing, unconsciousness, and death.

    • Accidental exposure is a major concern due to its presence in the drug supply.

  • Small, constricted pupils  

  • Slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression)  

  • Loss of consciousness  

  • Blue or gray coloring of the lips and/or fingertips (cyanosis)  

  • Cold, clammy skin  

  • Confusion  

  • Drowsiness  

  • Dizziness  

  • Nausea  

  • Vomiting  

Signs and symptoms of fentanyl overdose can include:

Withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Agitation

  • Muscle aches

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Insomnia

  • Intense cravings

There are a number of things you can do to avoid fentanyl:

  • Do not use illegal drugs. This is the best way to avoid fentanyl, as it is often mixed with other drugs without the user's knowledge.  

  • If you must use drugs, do not use alone. If you use drugs with someone else, you can help each other in case of an overdose.  

  • Use fentanyl test strips. These strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in drugs.  

  • Start low and go slow. If you are using drugs, start with a small amount and wait to see how you feel before using more.  

  • Carry naloxone. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.  

Individuals struggling with drug addiction should not hesitate to seek assistance. Support resources are readily available

*Do not own any rights to video credit due to Addiction Policy Forum