“Fentanyl is the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “Fentanyl is everywhere. From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison. We must take every opportunity to spread the word to prevent fentanyl-related overdose death and poisonings from claiming scores of American lives every day.” (https://www.dea.gov/fentanylawareness)
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times stronger than morphine and is used for treating severe pain, most commonly cancer pain. Fentanyl is a powerful and dangerous drug, and unfortunately has contributed to a significant increase in overdose deaths in many communities.
67% of overdose deaths in America are related to a synthetic opioid like fentanyl, and it is estimated that over 150 people die a day from a fentanyl overdose.
It’s important to recognize that there is a fentanyl crisis in our communities and be aware of steps that we can take to address it.
- Naloxone: Naloxone, a brand of Narcan, reverses the effects of overdoses and has the power to save lives. It’s important that this medication is available to emergency professionals and families and friends of individuals that might be at risk for overdose.
- Support: Individuals that struggle with addiction need support to help reduce their risk of overdose and enter into a season of recovery. Support looks different for each person, but individual & group therapy, inpatient/outpatient rehab centers and medication assisted treatments are common forms of support for those struggling with addiction.
- Public Education: A big step in fighting the fentanyl crisis in our communities is educating the public on the risks. Many people that are using the drug recreationally might be unaware of the extreme dangers fentanyl presents. Public education can help raise awareness and aid in the fight against the fentanyl crisis in our communities.
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If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse disorder, Spero Health offers local, affordable, and comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment. We integrate evidence-based physician services, counseling, and recovery support services to create a unique approach designed for each individual.
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