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

These charts paint a stark picture of the devastating impact of fentanyl on our communities. Each data point represents a life tragically cut short – our neighbors, family members, and friends lost to this crisis. This information, sourced from a trusted the CDC, Statista and NIH, underscores the human tragedy that demands our collective attention and action. We must understand the gravity of this situation to fuel the urgency for change, prevention, and support.

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