What Everyone Should Know About Fentanyl
An important fentanyl warning for all. Understanding the risks of fentanyl can help save lives and prevent accidental overdoses.
Important Safety Information
Harlem East Life Plan welcomes individuals and families seeking support for substance use, mental health, and medical concerns. We want our community to understand the growing dangers associated with fentanyl.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than many other opioids. While it can be prescribed for severe pain under medical supervision, illegally manufactured fentanyl is increasingly found in the illicit drug supply.
Many people who experience a fentanyl overdose never intended to use fentanyl at all. It is frequently mixed into counterfeit pills and other substances without the user’s knowledge.
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What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain medication. Pharmaceutical fentanyl may be prescribed by a healthcare provider for specific medical conditions. However, illicitly manufactured fentanyl has become a major contributor to overdose deaths nationwide.
Because fentanyl is extremely potent, even small amounts can cause life-threatening respiratory depression and overdose. People may unknowingly consume fentanyl when it is mixed into other substances or pressed into counterfeit pills.
Why Fentanyl Is So Dangerous
One of the greatest risks associated with fentanyl is that it is often hidden in other drugs. Individuals may believe they are taking a different substance when fentanyl is actually present.
- Fentanyl is extremely potent.
- It may be mixed into other drugs without the user’s knowledge.
- Counterfeit pills may contain fentanyl while appearing identical to legitimate medications.
- Even experienced users may be unable to determine whether fentanyl is present.
- Overdoses can occur quickly and unexpectedly.
Counterfeit Pills and Hidden Risks
Counterfeit pills are illegally manufactured pills designed to look like legitimate prescription medications. Some may appear to be oxycodone, Xanax, Adderall, or other familiar medications.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to determine whether a pill contains fentanyl simply by looking at it. A pill that looks identical to a legitimate medication may contain fentanyl or other dangerous substances.
For this reason, medications should only be taken when prescribed to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
Know the Signs of an Opioid Overdose
Recognizing the signs of an overdose can save a life. Warning signs may include:
- Extreme sleepiness or inability to wake up
- Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
- Blue, gray, or pale lips and skin
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Loss of consciousness
What to Do During an Overdose Emergency
Call 911 immediately if someone may be experiencing an overdose.
If naloxone (Narcan) is available, administer it according to the instructions provided. Naloxone can reverse opioid overdose effects and may save a person’s life.
Stay with the individual until emergency responders arrive. If the person does not respond or symptoms return, additional doses of naloxone may be necessary.
How to Protect Yourself
While no strategy eliminates all risk, there are important steps that can reduce the likelihood of accidental fentanyl exposure and overdose.
- Only take medications prescribed to you and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
- Avoid pills or substances obtained from unverified sources.
- Carry naloxone (Narcan) and learn how to use it.
- Make sure friends and family know where naloxone is stored.
- Never use substances alone.
- Seek support if you are concerned about substance use.
If You Are Struggling, Come to Us Instead
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, mental health concerns, or medical needs, Harlem East Life Plan is here to help. Our experienced team provides compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals seeking recovery and stability.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Methadone treatment
- Buprenorphine treatment
- Substance use counseling
- Mental health services
- Primary care services
- Walk-in support
Your life matters. Recovery is possible, and HELP is available today.
Learn More About Fentanyl
For additional information about fentanyl, overdose prevention, and resources for patients and families, please visit the CDC’s fentanyl information page.
