What you need to know
In 2022, fentanyl was responsible for 200 deaths every day in the U.S.
There were 73,654 fentanyl overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2022, more than double the amount from 2019
Currently, fentanyl is the number one cause of death in the U.S. for ages 18-45, since 2020.
Prevalence in Overdose Deaths:
Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths in the U.S. On average, over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl
Increasing Overdose Death Rates:
The rate of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, increased at an annual rate of 580% over five years from 2012 to 2017. Additionally, opioids are responsible for more than 136 American deaths every day, highlighting the severity of the opioid crisis.
FAQ
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What is fentanyl and why is it dangerous?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, similar to morphine but 50 to 100 times more potent. It's typically used to treat severe pain, especially after surgery or for pain from certain medical conditions. Fentanyl is dangerous because of its high potency, which increases the risk of overdose, especially when used without medical supervision or mixed with other substances.
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How does accidental fentanyl poisoning occur?
Accidental fentanyl poisoning can occur in several ways. One common way is through the misuse of prescription fentanyl, either by individuals for whom it was not prescribed or by patients not following their prescribed dosage. It can also happen when fentanyl is illicitly added to other drugs without the user’s knowledge, dramatically increasing the risk of overdose.
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What are the signs of fentanyl overdose?
Signs of fentanyl overdose include severe sleepiness, trouble breathing (slow, shallow breathing), inability to respond or wake up, limp body, cold and clammy skin, blue-colored lips or fingernails, and narrowed or pinpoint pupils. Immediate medical attention is critical in such cases.
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How is fentanyl poisoning treated?
Fentanyl poisoning is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. The primary treatment is the administration of naloxone, a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. However, due to fentanyl's potency, multiple doses of naloxone may be required. Immediate medical care is essential for the best outcome.
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Can fentanyl poisoning be prevented?
Prevention of fentanyl poisoning involves several strategies. For those prescribed fentanyl, it's crucial to use it exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. For those who use recreational drugs, it’s important to be aware of the potential for fentanyl contamination. Drug testing kits can sometimes identify fentanyl in substances. Additionally, education about the risks of opioid use and the availability of naloxone can help reduce the risk of overdose.
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What should you do if you suspect someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose?
If you suspect a fentanyl overdose, call emergency services immediately. If naloxone is available, administer it as quickly as possible. Keep the person awake and breathing if you can, and lay them on their side to prevent choking. Stay with the person until emergency services arrive. Remember, a fentanyl overdose is a life-threatening emergency, and quick action can save lives.
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These statistics underscore the alarming rise in accidental fentanyl poisoning, reflecting a significant public health challenge related to opioid misuse and the presence of fentanyl in the drug supply.
