Monday is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day

With a drug so potent that as little as 2 milligrams-small enough to fit the tip of a pencil- can be lethal, the dangers of fentanyl cannot be overstated. It has become so devastating, not just here in Alaska, but across the country, that the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, uses the term ‘poisoning’ when referring to fentanyl deaths.

In 2022, provisional data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) indicated that more than two thirds (68%) of the reported 107,081 drug overdose deaths in the United States involved synthetic opioids other than methadone, principally illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

Closer to home, in 2021, Alaska experienced the largest percent increase in overdose deaths of any state in the United States. Between 2020—2021, drug overdose death rates increased for most drug categories, resulting in a 74% increase in the overall drug overdose death rate. The primary driver of the opioid epidemic today is illicit fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times more potent than heroin, and 100 times more powerful than heroin.

The largest increases were seen in overdose deaths involving illegally manufactured fentanyl and methamphetamine, increasing 150% and 148%, respectively.

Initially developed by pharmaceutical companies, fentanyl was originally prescribed for pain management treatment of cancer patients and applied as a patch on the skin.

“An overdose may be closer than you think. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl which is distributed through illegal drug markets for its heroin-like effect is found in a wide variety of forms, including pills, powder, rocks, and liquids, and is commonly mixed with drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine or counterfeit pills made to look like prescription drugs. Even a tiny amount of fentanyl can kill and it can be in drugs without you even knowing it. Fentanyl can be smoked, injected, or ingested. In liquid form, it can be found in nasal sprays, eye drops, and dropped onto paper or small candies,” warned the Alaska Department of Health officials.

In response to the devastating cost of fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths, a coordinated day of response by grassroots fentanyl awareness organizations and families impacted by fentanyl to educate the public about the dangers of illicit opioid was created in 2022, National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness day has been designated on August 21.

Nationally, the DEA has recognized National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day by joining the dedicated voices who continue to raise awareness in an effort to prevent the fentanyl poisonings devastating families across the country.

“Spreading awareness about the dangers and deadly realities of fentanyl is critically important in this fight to save lives,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “Fentanyl remains the most dangerous drug threat facing our country. The dedicated men and women of the DEA know their job is far from over. DEA will continue to increase outreach and education efforts with our valued community partners. All Americans play a critical role in spreading awareness about the dangers and deadly realities of fentanyl."

Michael Carson, chairman of the Mat-Su Opioid Task Force warns:

“One has only a short window to intervene and save a loved one, family member and/or person’s life. Prescription drugs sold online or on the street can be easily fake/counterfeit. Percocet, Xanax, Oxy and even Adderall that are often contaminated with fentanyl.” Carson also extends that warning to counterfeit prescription drugs, saying, “The only safe prescriptions come from a licensed pharmacist or physician.”

Despite the escalating rate of opioid overdose deaths and high hospitalization rates, there have been several encouraging findings:

Preliminary data suggest a 36% reduction in the number of people who passed from opioid-related overdose deaths, from 100 people in 2017 to 64 people in 2018. The rate of Medicare Part D patients who received opioid prescriptions has decreased annually since 2015, suggesting more judicious prescribing in Alaska.

Naloxone use is increasing; this is likely due in part to the increased statewide availability of this life-saving overdose reversal medication.

There are things that can be done to help combat fentanyl-related overdoses. There are fentanyl test strips available to help detect whether or not a drug or prescription has been lace with fentanyl. Also, learn the signs and symptoms of a fentanyl overdose.

“Be aware of the signs of a fentanyl overdose, with shallow, slow breathing and skin may turn bluish (in the lips and fingers),” says Carson. And call 911 immediately.

Additionally, people should consider carrying Naloxone and get proper training on how to safely administer it.

“It is easy with a nasal spray and it can save a life.”

Narcan, a version of Naloxone, was recently approved by the FDA for over-the-counter (OTC), nonprescription, use – the first naloxone product approved for use without a prescription. People can also obtain Narcan by contact or calling Project Hope.

“We have to educate the public, including parents and especially teens. Those conversations need to be data driven, and on-going, with continued heartfelt and honest dialogue.”

For more information about fentanyl test strips, obtaining a Narcan kit, and training, please visit www.dhss.alaska.gov Or call (907) 334-2675.