The Facts About Fentanyl - CDC

Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid that can be up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, making it a leading contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the United States. While pharmaceutical fentanyl is prescribed for severe pain, most overdose deaths are associated with illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is frequently mixed into other drugs without a user's knowledge. The fact sheet explains that fentanyl can appear in powder, pill, or liquid form, is impossible to detect by sight, smell, or taste, and recommends fentanyl test strips as a harm reduction tool, while noting their limitations. It also outlines the common signs of an opioid overdose, including pinpoint pupils, slowed or absent breathing, loss of consciousness, and cold or discolored skin. Practical overdose response steps include calling 911, administering naloxone if available, keeping the person breathing, placing them on their side, and remaining with them until emergency responders arrive.

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