Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, approved for treating severe pain. It is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine.

However, most recent cases of fentanyl-related harm, overdose, and death in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl. It is sold through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect. It is often mixed with heroin and/or cocaine as a combination product—with or without the user’s knowledge—to increase its euphoric effect.

STREET NAMES FOR IMF INCLUDE:
• Apache
• Dance Fever
• Friend
• Goodfellas
• Jackpot
• Murder 8
• Tango & Cash

Recognizing the signs of opioid overdose can save a life. Here are some things to look for:
– Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
– Falling asleep or losing consciousness
– Slow, weak, or no breathing
– Choking or gurgling sounds
– Limp body
– Cold and/or clammy skin
– Discolored skin (especially in lips and nails)

What to do if you think someone is overdosing:
It may be hard to tell whether a person is high or experiencing an overdose. If you aren’t sure, treat it like an overdose—you could save a life.
1. Call 911 Immediately.*
2. Administer naloxone, if available.**
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing.
4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
5. Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives.

*Most states have laws that may protect a person who is overdosing or the person who called for help from legal trouble.

**Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdose and save lives. It is available in all 50 states and can be purchased from a local pharmacy without a prescription in most states.

Opioids

Opioids are a group of drugs that include synthetic opioids like fentanyl, illegal drugs like heroin, and legal prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, and morphine. Prescription opioid pain medications can be helpful when used correctly under the guidance of a healthcare provider, but misuse can lead to dependence and addiction.

Opioids can be addictive. Opioids are among the most addictive drugs. Over time, opioids can change the brain, which leads to addiction. People who are addicted to opioids can feel a strong need to take the drug again and again. They may also experience severe withdrawal symptoms in the absence of the drug. These negative withdrawal symptoms, coupled with the strong desire to use opioids, are why some people continue to use opioids, despite negative consequences to their health and well-being.