What would you do if a friend or loved one showed signs of a fentanyl overdose? It’s a question that too many families face, as fentanyl has become one of the leading causes of overdose deaths. This very strong synthetic opioid is often hidden in heroin, cocaine, and other substances, and it has some very severe and serious risks to public health. The good news is that by identifying fentanyl overdose symptoms and understanding the steps to take in the event of a suspected overdose, you could save a life. Let’s take some time to talk about what fentanyl is, the symptoms of an overdose, and how Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centre can give you the support you need, when you need it most.
What Is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is prescribed to help treat severe and chronic pain conditions, like the pain experienced by cancer patients or those people who are recovering from major surgery. When it is used as directed in a controlled medical environment, fentanyl can be a very good option for managing pain. However, because of its extraordinary potency—50 to 100 times stronger than morphine— it is incredibly dangerous when it is misused or unknowingly consumed. The Drug Enforcement Administrations (also known as the DEA) has proven that even a very tiny amount, as little as two milligrams—roughly the size of a few grains of salt—can result in a fatal opioid overdose.
Illegal fentanyl is usually manufactured in unregulated facilities and has become a major cause of the current public health crisis. Dealers often mix fentanyl into other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and even counterfeit prescription pills. Doing so increases drug potency and therefore profitability, but it also raises the risk of unintentional overdose. Many people who consume these tainted substances are not aware that they contain fentanyl, putting them at serious risk.
The impact of fentanyl is staggering. According to the CDC, synthetic opioids like fentanyl were involved in nearly 75% of the 107,622 overdose deaths recorded in the U.S. in 2021. These alarming numbers are proof of the importance of being able to recognize fentanyl overdose symptoms and acting as quickly as possible to prevent further tragedies.
Fentanyl Overdose Symptoms
A fentanyl overdose happens when the body can’t handle the drug’s powerful effects, causing serious and sometimes deadly problems. Acting quickly when you see these signs can save someone’s life.
The Most Common Fentanyl Overdose Symptoms:
Very small (pinpoint) pupils – The black part of the eye becomes tiny and doesn’t get bigger even in dim light. This is often one of the first signs that something is wrong.
Slow or shallow breathing – The person may breathe very slowly, take small, short breaths, or even stop breathing altogether. If their chest isn’t moving much, this is a serious warning sign.
Cold, clammy skin – Their skin might feel cool and damp to the touch, which could mean their body is starting to shut down.
Gray, blue, or pale skin – Their skin might look very pale, gray, or have a bluish tint, especially on their face. This happens because their body isn’t getting enough oxygen.
Blue or purple lips and nails – When someone isn’t breathing well, their lips, fingernails, or toenails can turn blue or purple. This is called cyanosis, which means their blood isn’t carrying enough oxygen.
Weak or floppy arms and legs – The person might seem very limp or unable to hold up their body.
Confusion or unconsciousness – They might act confused, not respond when you call their name, or lose consciousness completely.
Slurred or no speech – Their words may sound slow or hard to understand, or they might not be able to talk at all.
Choking or gurgling sounds – If you hear these sounds, it could mean they’re struggling to breathe or their airway is partially blocked.
Vomiting – Throwing up is common during an overdose and can make it harder for them to breathe, especially if they are unconscious.
Not breathing at all – If their breathing stops, this is a critical emergency. Call for help right away.
When someone overdoses on fentanyl, their brain may not get enough oxygen, a condition called hypoxia. This can cause permanent brain damage, a coma, or even death if help doesn’t arrive quickly. Knowing these fentanyl overdose symptoms and taking action right away could make all the difference.
What to Do If Someone Is Experiencing a Fentanyl Overdose
If you think someone is experiencing fentanyl overdose symptoms, acting fast can save their life. Here are the steps you should take:
- Call 911 Right Away – Tell the operator you think it’s an opioid overdose and give as much information as you can. Stay calm and follow their instructions. Every second counts.
- Use Naloxone if You Have It – Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an overdose.
- If you have a nasal spray version, spray it into one nostril following the instructions on the package.
- If you have the injectable version, it can be given into a muscle, under the skin, or into a vein.
- Naloxone is often available at licensed pharmacies without a prescription, and many community programs provide it for free.
- Check Their Breathing – Look at their chest to see if they are breathing. If they’re not, or if their breathing is very slow, you might need to perform CPR.
- Turn Them on Their Side – If they’re unconscious, roll them onto their side with their face turned slightly downward. This helps prevent choking in case they vomit.
- Stay Until Help Arrives – Don’t leave them alone. Medical professionals can give further treatment to save their life.
Keeping naloxone at home or in your community can make all the difference. If you or someone you love is at risk of opioid overdose, reach out to local public health programs or pharmacies to get a naloxone kit. It’s a small step that could save a life.
When to Get Professional Addiction Treatment
Repeated misuse of fentanyl can play a role in significantly increasing the risk of overdose death and is proof of the need for professional help and support. Signs that someone may be struggling with fentanyl addiction include:
- Constant cravings for fentanyl or other opioid drugs.
- Continuing to use it despite serious problems with their health, relationships, or daily life.
- Finding it hard—or impossible—to cut down or stop using it.
At Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centre, we provide compassionate care for fentanyl addiction. Our trauma-informed approach focuses on understanding and addressing the underlying causes of addiction. With medically supervised detox, we can help ensure that our clients can withdraw both safely and comfortably. Our personalized care plans include therapies that are designed to help our clients regain control and rebuild their lives. We also offer specialized programs for anyone that is dealing with behavioral health addictions or who is recovering from substances like heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl.
Get the Addiction Support You Need at Trafalgar Residence
Recognizing the signs of a fentanyl overdose and knowing how to respond can save a life—but real healing takes time. Long-term recovery requires compassionate, comprehensive care. At Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centre, we understand how difficult this journey can be, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
Our clients receive top-quality inpatient treatment in a peaceful, 13-acre setting designed to encourage healing. With the support of experienced therapists and wellness activities like yoga, fitness training, and nutritional guidance, we focus on treating the whole person—not just the addiction.
If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to Trafalgar Residence today, and let us help you take the first step toward a healthier, brighter future.
Contact us now to learn more about our treatment programs and how we can support you in overcoming fentanyl addiction.
Information on this page is for informational purposes only, and does not replace personalized medical advice. You should never make any decisions about your health without consulting a healthcare professional, especially when related to substance use or mental health. To speak to a qualified member of our team for personalized advice, you can contact us here.
