The presence of fentanyl in today's drugs continues to pose a threat to the safety of teens and adults alike. While some progress is being made with drug overdose deaths decreasing across the country, too many Americans, especially youth, are still dying from poisonings caused by drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.
Fentanyl, the powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50x stronger than heroin and 100x stronger than morphine, is widely available in a variety of colors, shapes, and forms including powder and pills. Drug traffickers make large amounts to sell as a standalone substance or mix with other dangerous street drugs to increase supply, create new users, and encourage repeat business.
What is concerning is that many teens don't intend to take fentanyl. They often think they are getting something else because the counterfeit pills may look nearly identical to prescription medications - even 1 counterfeit pill can be fatal.
One way for parents to support their children is by practicing or role-playing on how to manage peer pressure and decline a potential offer of an unidentified pill.
If you know or suspect that a friend or loved one is using or may be at risk of using fentanyl, it is important to help them reduce risks associated with use. Some harm reduction strategies may include: carrying naloxone in case of accidental overdose; testing illicit substances with fentanyl test strips; or using sterile needles to reduce disease transmission.
Read more about Fentanyl and why it is so dangerous: https://drugfree.org/drugs/what-is-fentanyl/
Listen for InnerAct Alliance's Fentanyl-Opioid Awareness Campaign PSAs during the month of June on radio and tv and look for our billboards around town to spread the word and help keep our community safe.
No comments:
Post a Comment