National Fentanyl Awareness Day: Knowledge Saves Lives

As an addiction doctor and as a mom, National Fentanyl Awareness Day on April 29th holds deep meaning for me. It’s a day to honor those we’ve lost, support those who are still fighting, and empower our communities with the information we need to save lives.

What is fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. It is used legally in medicine for severe pain, but in the illicit drug supply, fentanyl has become a hidden danger, appearing in counterfeit pills, powders, and substances where people least expect it.

Some know they are using fentanyl and struggle with its powerful grip. Others have no idea they are exposed, believing they are taking a legitimate medication or another drug.

Harm reduction saves lives

It’s important to understand: addiction does not discriminate. I have seen opioid use disorder affect doctors, nurses, lawyers, teachers, students, parents—every walk of life. For those knowingly using fentanyl or other substances, harm reduction can save lives.

• Always carry naloxone (Narcan), a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose.
• Never use alone if possible. If you have no choice, consider calling the Never Use Alone Hotline at 1-800-484-3731 so someone can stay on the line and call for help if needed.
• In case of an emergency, call 911; 48 states and the District of Columbia have Good Samaritan laws that protect you from prosecution when calling for help during an overdose.

One pill can kill

For those using other pills or powders, the risk of counterfeit medication and fentanyl contamination is higher than ever. Learn about fentanyl testing strips and always carry naloxone. Be aware that many fake pills are made to look identical to real prescription drugs like oxycodone, Xanax, or Adderall but contain deadly amounts of fentanyl. Even a single pill can be fatal.

This is especially important to talk about with teens: we are losing about 22 teens every week in the U.S. to fentanyl poisoning, often from counterfeit pills they thought were safe.¹ Learn more about harm reduction at places like DanceSafe.org and EndOverdose.net.

We also need to remember those with chronic pain who may be impacted by medication shortages or new prescribing practices. Some may turn to the street supply out of desperation, not realizing the grave risks. Making sure our loved ones are aware of these risks is paramount.

Keep it out of reach

Additionally, if you have any opioids, legal or illicit, in your home, car, or belongings, please take every precaution. Children are naturally curious, and even small exposures can be fatal.

In 2023 alone, there were 539 illicit fentanyl exposures in children under 6 years old—19 of these small children died.² Lock all such medications or substances up and safely dispose of any you no longer need.

Help is available

If you or someone you love is struggling, there is help.

• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (for mental health emergencies): Call or text 988

On this National Fentanyl Awareness Day, let’s stand together: without judgment, but with compassion and action. Talk to your kids. Carry naloxone. Check on your friends. Save a life. We all have a part to play, and by staying informed and caring for one another, we can make a difference.

Learn more about National Fentanyl Awareness Day here.