What is fentanyl? Fentanyl is described as a powerful synthetic opioid. A synthetic opioid is a drug created in a chemical process for reducing pain. Fentanyl is powerful because even if you take a tiny amount, it can be lethal. According to the DEA, as much as 2 milligrams of powder fentanyl is a lethal dose. The amount of fentanyl needed to cause death depends on the person’s weight. Fentanyl also takes effect and wears off quickly, so it is very addictive.
There are two types of fentanyl that are important to know about. Medical fentanyl and illicit fentanyl. Medical fentanyl is carefully made with a precise dose of fentanyl in a safe factory. It is prescribed by doctors for actual medical uses and death is uncommon when it is used. Illicit fentanyl is made lazily in unsanitary places with a random dose and is hidden in drug supply. It increases drug dealer profits and is majorly involved in U.S. deaths in recent years. Fentanyl is more involved with youth deaths of overdose than heroin, meth, and cocaine combined. Fenta Pills are also given to people by drug dealers. A fentapill is a fake prescription pill made to resemble actual medicines. They are made with illicit fentanyl.
So, why is fentanyl so dangerous? Fentanyl is dangerous because of how much is needed to cause death. Only 2 milligrams of fentanyl is considered a lethal dose. The DEA reported that there were at least 9.6 million counterfeit pills confiscated in 2021. Also, there is no way of knowing that there is fentanyl in a pill unless you dissolve and test the pill. Many drug dealers tell their customers that the pills have been tested when they haven’t to reassure them. Fentanyl is being put into almost all kinds of street drugs. Dealers might put fentanyl in their drugs to reduce costs, hook their customers, or to enhance the effect of an existing drug.
Some things that you can do to help is knowing the signs of an overdose. Some symptoms might be the loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, unnatural breathing, and the inability to speak. If you realize that someone is sleepy and their pupils are very small, you should call 911 immediately and request medical service. You can also carry naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid reversal medication. Fentanyl is an opioid and we all have opioid receptors in our brains. The opioid gets into your bloodstream quickly by latching onto the receptors. This way, the fentanyl can put you in a deep sleep and cut off your breathing and then stop your heart.
On May 8th and 9th, Rosemont students got to listen to a presentation regarding the dangers of fentanyl. We had a great speaker that told us mostly everything we needed to know. She bravely told us about the tragic death of her son. Everyone should know about fentanyl, no matter how old they are. You can spread the word by telling your friends, family, and others about how to avoid fentanyl.