Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is responsible for more deaths among Americans under 50 than any other cause, including heart disease, cancer, and accidents, according to the CDC. Among teenagers, overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl have tripled in the past two years. Alarmingly, 73% of teenagers have never heard of fake prescription pills being made with fentanyl.
Understanding Fentanyl
Fentanyl is up to fifty times stronger than heroin and one hundred times stronger than morphine. It is not plant-based; it is synthesized in a lab. A few grains of sand worth of fentanyl can be lethal. It is used medically as a pain reliever but is also illicitly manufactured and sold, often mixed with other drugs like oxycodone, Percocet, and Xanax. This unregulated mixing process puts users at significant risk of poisoning and overdose. Even a small amount, as little as two milligrams, can be fatal.
Local Efforts to Combat the Crisis
Recognizing the severity of this crisis, the Clay County Public Health Center (CCPHC) started a Narcan distribution program in August 2023. Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. A customized-distribution box was placed in the lobby of CCPHC to distribute free Narcan kits to the public. This program has since expanded to include two new locations, including the Excelsior Springs Good Samaritan Center. As of May 1, 2024, 1,226 Narcan kits have been distributed, thanks to the support of the Missouri Institute of Mental Health (MIIMH) and the Department of Mental Health.
How You Can Help
– Learn and Educate Other: Have conversations with your family and friends about the dangers of fentanyl and the prevalence of fake prescription pills. Increasing awareness can save lives.
– Don’t Stigmatize Drug Use: Emphasize the risks of encountering illicitly manufactured fentanyl without stigmatizing those who may be using drugs. Understanding and compassion are key in addressing this public health crisis.
Be Prepared:
– Know the Signs of an Overdose: Look for signs such as loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, irregular breathing, and inability to speak.
– Carry Narcan: Naloxone (Narcan) is a nasal spray that can reverse opioid overdoses. It is available for free at several locations, including the Clay County Public Health Center and the Excelsior Springs Good Samaritan Center.
– Call for Help: If you witness someone experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Good Samaritan laws in all 50 states and D.C. provide immunity to those who call for emergency services during an overdose situation.
Local Resources for Naloxone
– Excelsior Springs Good Samaritan Center: 108 S Thompson Ave, downtown Excelsior Springs
– Clay County Public Health Center: Visit their lobby to receive free Narcan kits.
– Missouri Institute of Mental Health and Department of Mental Health: These organizations provide Narcan kits and educational materials to CCPHC.
By taking these steps and utilizing local resources, we can help prevent fatal overdoses and save lives in our community. Educate yourself, carry naloxone, and be prepared to act in an emergency. Together, we can combat the fentanyl crisis and protect our loved ones.
If you appreciate the value our local journalism brings to the community, please consider making a recurring contribution to the Excelsior Citizen!
