The Facts About Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
There are two types of fentanyl: pharmaceutical fentanyl and illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Both are considered synthetic opioids. Pharmaceutical fentanyl is prescribed by doctors to treat severe pain. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is distributed through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect, is often added to other substances because of its extreme potency. This makes the substances cheaper, more powerful and more addictive.
According to the CDC, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is a major contributor to fatal and nonfatal overdoses in the U.S. Over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
Watch this KETV report to learn more.
If you or someone you know is a licensed health care professional and experiencing a substance use disorder, please reach out to the NE LAP at (800) 851-2336 or (402) 354-8055 to begin the recovery process.
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