WASHINGTON, DC (May 11, 2023) — The Drug Enforcement Administration has launched a national public awareness campaign to combat the growing threat of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid responsible for an increasing number of overdose deaths across the United States.
According to the DEA, fentanyl is 50-100 times more potent than morphine and can be lethal in very small doses. The drug is often mixed with other drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, making it difficult for users to know what they are consuming and increasing the risk of overdose.
The awareness campaign, which is being conducted in partnership with law enforcement agencies, public health organizations, and community groups, aims to educate the public about the dangers of fentanyl and how to prevent overdose deaths.
The campaign includes a series of educational materials, such as posters and brochures, that highlight the signs of a fentanyl overdose and provide information on how to obtain naloxone, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
The DEA is also working to disrupt the supply chain of fentanyl by targeting drug traffickers and manufacturers who are responsible for producing and distributing the drug. In recent years, the agency has seized record amounts of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, but the problem continues to grow.
The fentanyl awareness campaign is part of a broader effort by the DEA and its partners to combat the opioid crisis and save lives. The agency is encouraging everyone to take an active role in preventing overdose deaths by learning about the dangers of fentanyl and how to respond in the event of an overdose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, help is available. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers a free and confidential helpline that provides information, support, and referrals to treatment. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit samhsa.gov for more information.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was generated by ChatGPT based on a web page on the DEA website.
