Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is much more potent than heroin, meaning that a much smaller amount can produce the same effects. This potency also makes it much easier to overdose on fentanyl, even accidentally, as users may not be aware of the drug's strength that they are taking. Fentanyl is considered to be more dangerous than heroin.
Fentanyl is responsible for a growing number of overdose deaths, particularly when it is mixed with other drugs such as heroin or cocaine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2023, over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. While heroin is also a dangerous and addictive drug, the increased potency and prevalence of fentanyl make it an even greater public health concern.
It's important to remember that all drug use, whether it's heroin or fentanyl, carries risks and can have serious health consequences.
Erie County offers FREE FENTANYL TEST STRIPS AND NARCAN.
These strips are used to help reduce the risk of accidental fentanyl overdose. They are considered a valuable tool in addressing the opioid crisis by providing individuals with information about the potential presence of this highly potent and dangerous opioid in their drugs. Narcan is a harm-free drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
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