Fentanyl: Myths and Facts
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. While it has legitimate medical uses, illegally manufactured fentanyl is the primary driver of the increase in U.S. overdose deaths.
Here are the key facts and common myths regarding fentanyl, according to health and law enforcement agencies:
Fentanyl Facts
High Potency: Fentanyl is extremely potent, and even a very small amount can lead to a fatal overdose.
Primary Overdose Driver: Synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl, are currently a leading cause of overdose deaths.
Two Types Exist: Pharmaceutical fentanyl is prescribed by doctors for severe pain, while illicitly manufactured fentanyl is sold through illegal markets and is often mixed into other substances.
Hidden in Other Drugs: Illicit fentanyl is frequently found in counterfeit pills made to look like prescription medications (such as Oxycodone, Xanax, or Adderall) and other street drugs.
Undetectable by Senses: It is impossible to see, taste, or smell fentanyl when it is mixed into other drugs.
Detection Tools: Fentanyl test strips are available to help detect the presence of fentanyl in other substances.
Overdose Reversal: Naloxone (Narcan) is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including those caused by fentanyl.
Common Fentanyl Myths
Myth: Touching fentanyl or having it on your skin will cause an immediate overdose.
Fact: Brief skin contact with fentanyl is not known to cause overdose, as it is not readily absorbed through the skin in that manner.
Myth: Naloxone does not work on fentanyl.
Fact: Naloxone is effective against fentanyl overdoses, though multiple doses may be required due to the drug's potency.
Myth: You can tell if a drug contains fentanyl by its appearance.
Fact: There is no visual way to determine if a drug is contaminated with fentanyl; testing is the only way to know.
Myth: Only people with long-term substance use issues are at risk.
Fact: Anyone who consumes illicit substances or counterfeit pills is at risk, especially those with no prior exposure or tolerance.
Carry Naloxone: Having Naloxone on hand can save lives in the event of an accidental exposure or overdose.
Seek Support: If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, resources are available. You can contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential, free, 24/7 information and treatment referrals.
NARCAN
NARCAN® (naloxone hydrochloride) is a safe, easy-to-use nasal spray that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses in 2–3 minutes. It is an over-the-counter, nonprescription medication that works as an opioid antagonist, binding to brain receptors to restore breathing. NARCAN is essential for reversing overdoses from fentanyl, heroin, and prescription opioids.
Key Details About Narcan
What it does: Reverses the fatal effects of an opioid overdose. (It will not work on any other substance only opioids).
How it works: It acts as an opioid antagonist (drug class), meaning it knocks opioids off brain receptors.
Administration: It is a nasal spray. Insert into one nostril, press the plunger, and if no response in 2-3 minutes (must wait the 2-3 minutes, rapid doseing could be counter effecxtive), administer another dose in the other nostril.
Availability: Approved for over-the-counter (OTC) purchase in pharmacies, retail stores, and online.
Safety: It is safe to use on anyone, even if they are not experiencing an overdose. It has no effect if opioids are not present.
Side Effects: While not fatal, it can cause immediate withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremors, and increased blood pressure.
Shelf Life: While specific expiration dates depend on the manufacturer, it is recommended to keep an eye on the expiration date on the box and replace it when necessary. (If you only have an expired dose use it. Some is better than none).
How to Identify an Overdose
Breathing is less than 8 breaths per minute.
Do not respond to verbal comands and appear to be slumped over and limp.
No response to a sternum rub.
Blue or grey lips and fingernails.
If you are not sure if it is an opioid overdose go ahead and use NARCAN anyway. It will not harm them, but is it is another substance it will revive them.
Disclaimer: Always call 911 first if you suspect an overdose, even if you have administered NARCAN.
What is Substance Use Disdorder (SUD)
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