Fentanyl is the third leading cause of pediatric deaths in the U.S.,* so helping a loved one reduce their risks of an overdose is more critical than ever. Here are 5 facts parents should know to be prepared and to keep their loved ones safe.
1. Fentanyl is a lab-made opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or morphine. As a prescription drug, it is typically used to treat patients with severe pain.
2. Illegal fentanyl is relatively cheap to produce – so many substances are laced with it – including heroin, meth, cocaine and fake pills that look like Xanax and Oxycontin. People often don’t even realize they’re consuming it.
3. Because fentanyl is so powerful, people who aren’t used to using it can easily overdose – especially teenagers.
4. Naloxone (Narcan), a medication which can reverse an overdose – should be in every home as a precautionary measure. You can get naloxone at your local pharmacy or for free from many local community coalitions or recovery centers.
5. If your loved one is at risk of consuming fentanyl, encourage them to take measures to reduce the risk of overdose. Including:
- Carry naloxone
- Use fentanyl test strips
- Use the Brave app or Never Use Alone Service
- Use clean and sterile needles
- Use medications to reduce cravings
