Let's come together in October to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and stop accidental fentanyl poisoning that has led to countless tragedies.
Download Fentanyl Fact Sheet (PDF)
Fentanyl is safe when taken as prescribed by a doctor to treat severe pain. However, illegally manufactured fentanyl is often added to counterfeit (fake) pills and other substances with or without a person's knowledge, including:
Counterfeit (fake) pills made to look like pills that come from a pharmacy, such as:
- Oxycodone
- Vicodin
- Percocet
- Xanax
- Adderall
Other illegal substances, such as:
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine MDMA (also known as “ecstasy” or “Molly”)
The overdose crisis is harming Texas youth at an especially alarming rate. Teenagers and young adults can buy illegal substances and counterfeit pills through social media—and many may be mixed with potentially fatal doses of fentanyl.
Even small amounts of fentanyl, equivalent to a few grains of sand, can be deadly. That means that any pill could be the one that causes an overdose. Remember, one pill kills.
Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Fellow Texans from the Dangers of Fentanyl
Accidental fentanyl overdoses are life threatening, but preventable. Here are some ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from a fentanyl overdose.
Talk about fentanyl
Make sure your child understands the risks of fentanyl and how even one pill can result in accidental overdose. If you're concerned about a loved one who uses substances, have a calm, direct conversation and listen without judgment. Work together to make a plan to stay safe.
Only take pills prescribed to you
If it didn't come from your doctor or pharmacist, you can't be sure that it's safe.
Get the facts: txopioidresponse.org/fentanyl
Together, we can save lives.
Additional Resources
- The United States Drug Enforcement Agency has a dedicated parent/guardian page with multiple resources available.
- The National Institute of Drug Abuse has created a resource of conversation starters about substance use and how to talk with teens about substance use.
- The Texas Health and Human Services Department Texas Targeted Opioid Response website has information about how to seek help for yourself or someone else.
