Information

Information & Resources

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is prescribed medically for severe pain but is often illegally manufactured and mixed into pills, powders, or other drugs without people knowing.

Why is Fentanyl So Dangerous?

  • Just 2 milligrams (about a few grains of salt) can be deadly.

  • It’s often hidden in counterfeit pills made to look like prescription medication.

  • Most people who overdose don’t know they are taking fentanyl.

Signs of a Fentanyl Overdose

If someone is overdosing, call 911 immediately. Common signs include:

  • Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing

  • Pinpoint pupils

  • Cold or clammy skin

  • Blue or gray lips and fingertips

  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness

How to Respond

  1. Call 911 right away.

  2. Administer Naloxone (Narcan) if available. It can reverse an opioid overdose.

  3. Perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained.

  4. Stay with the person until help arrives.

Prevention Tips

  • Never take pills that weren’t prescribed directly to you.

  • Be aware that “street pills” (like fake Percocet, Oxycodone, or Xanax) may contain fentanyl.

  • Carry Naloxone (Narcan) if you or someone you love may be at risk.

  • Talk openly with your children, family, and community about the dangers of fentanyl.

Resources and Support

  • Samsa National Helpline (24/7)
  • National Fentanyl Awareness Day: Fentanylawarenessday.org
  • CDC- Opoid Overdose Prevention: cdc.gov.drugoverdose
  • Forever Our Angels Fentanyl Awareness: https://www.facebook.com/foreverourangelsfentanyl-awareness