Highlighting Fentanyl Overdose: An Issue Plaguing the Nation

In 2021, 67,325 people died as a result of an opioid overdose, and the vast majority of these overdoses involved fentanyl. Fentanyl, originally developed as a powerful pain reliever, is approximately 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and 30 to 50 times more potent than heroin.

This synthetic opioid is frequently mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit prescription pills, amplifying the risk of overdose and making it harder for users to gauge the potency of the substances they are consuming.

Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body, rapidly inducing a state of euphoria and sedation. However, this potent drug can also depress the respiratory system, leading to life-threatening consequences such as respiratory arrest or cardiac complications. In the event of an overdose, time becomes a crucial factor in saving lives. As a result, it's important to understand fentanyl overdose and what to do if you see someone experiencing one.

Fentanyl is a Powerful, Long-Acting Opioid

One reason fentanyl is so deadly is its longevity in the body. Fentanyl has a notably long half-life, which is the amount of time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the body to decrease by half. While the exact duration can vary depending on individual factors, fentanyl generally has a half-life of around 3 to 12 hours. As a result, it can take a significant amount of time for the drug to fully clear from the system.

It's important to note that the duration for which fentanyl stays in the system can be influenced by factors such as the dose ingested, frequency of use, individual metabolism, and the presence of other substances. However, it is generally advisable to assume that fentanyl can persist in the body for an extended period, potentially increasing the risk of recurrent overdoses if substance use continues.

Taking too much fentanyl too quickly can result in an overdose.

Recognizing Fentanyl Overdose

The faster you act, the more likely you are able to stop an overdose. As a result, it is important to be able to spot the signs of fentanyl overdose. Signs of fentanyl overdose include:

• Extreme drowsiness or fatigue
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Pinpoint pupils
• Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
• Bluish lips or fingertips (cyanosis)
• Cold and clammy skin
• Weak pulse or low blood pressure
• Vomiting or gurgling sounds
• Inability to wake up or stay awake
• Confusion or disorientation
• Muscle limpness or weakness

If you suspect someone is overdosing on fentanyl, dial 911 immediately.

What to Do In the Event of a Fentanyl Overdose

Acting quickly in the event of a fentanyl overdose can save lives. But how exactly do you help someone who is overdosing?

If you suspect someone is experiencing a fentanyl overdose, follow these steps:

1. Call emergency services immediately: Dial the emergency hotline (e.g., 911) and provide the dispatcher with accurate information about the situation. Time is of the essence, so do not hesitate to seek professional help.

2. Administer naloxone: If you have access to naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication, administer it promptly. Naloxone is available as a nasal spray or an injectable form and can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including fentanyl. Remember to follow the instructions provided with the naloxone product and seek proper training on its usage.

3. Perform rescue breathing: While waiting for medical assistance, if the person is not breathing or has slow, shallow breaths, perform rescue breathing. Tilt their head back slightly, lift their chin, and give them one breath every 5 seconds. This helps supply oxygen to the body and brain. Rescue breathing is especially important today because of the increasing rates of Xylazine in the drug supply. Xylazine is a powerful sedative and animal tranquilizer that is not an opioid, so it does not respond to naloxone. It is often found in opioids or fentanyl though, and overdose can be stopped by performing rescue breathing.

4. Stay with the individual: Provide continuous reassurance and stay with the person until emergency responders arrive. If they regain consciousness, keep them calm and monitor their breathing and vital signs. Be prepared to provide any relevant information to the medical professionals regarding the substances involved.

Remember, the primary goal during an overdose is to keep the person alive until professional help arrives. Promptly notifying emergency services, administering naloxone if available, and providing rescue breathing can significantly increase the chances of survival.

Overdose Can Be Prevented

Carrying naloxone is the single most effective way to prevent a fatal over dose. In fact, studies have found that two-thirds of opioid-related overdose deaths may have been preventable if bystanders were equipped with naloxone and knew how to use it. For more information on how to use naloxone, visit https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/12028.pdf.