Fentanyl, also known as Actiq, Duragesic or Sublimaze in its prescription form, is a potent painkiller developed in the 1960s to treat extreme pain. Some strains of Fentanyl can be 50 times more potent than morphine. Because Fentanyl is so potent, drug dealers have been progressively increasing the amount of it mixed into heroin, oxycodone or Xanax. This is deceiving to buyers, who are unaware a powder or pill may contain Fentanyl.

According to a U.S. government report, Fentanyl has been traced back to illegal labs in China and Mexico. The drug has then been trafficked to countries like the United States, laced with heroin and sold to buyers who have no knowledge of the added heroin.

Some of the signs of Fentanyl use to look for are: drowsiness, confusion, constipation, weakness, dry mouth, constricted pupils, unconsciousness, slowed respirations, decreased heart rate, nausea, sweating, flushing, confusion, stiff or rigid muscles, tight feeling in the throat and difficulty concentrating.

According to a U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency report, “Fentanyl is potentially deadly, even at low levels. Consumption of doses as low as 0.25mg can be fatal.” The use of it should be taken seriously.

Signs of a Fentanyl overdose can be recognized through a number of symptoms: very low blood pressure, pinpoint pupils, weak muscles, dizziness, confusion, extreme sleepiness, loss of consciousness, bluish tint to nails and lips, profoundly slowed heart beat and a dangerously slowed or stopped breathing.

Over 100 million people have been affected by substance abuse this year — more than have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus.

If you or a loved one are struggling with Fentanyl use, reach out for help! Narconon has helped people all over the U.S. find treatment. To learn more, visit “What You Need to Know about Fentanyl” at narcononnewliferetreat.org.

Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call 1-800-431-1754 today for free screenings or referrals.

Aaron Olson, Narconon community relations director