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JUNE 1, 2023
ALERT
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RAINBOW FENTANYL
BACKGROUND
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that can quickly cause overdose. It is 50 times
more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, making it a
major contributor to the 150+ synthetic overdose deaths occurring every day.
SITUATION
In recent months, brightly colored fentanyl tablets, powder, and blocks that
look like candy or sidewalk chalk have been trending nationally amongst our
youth (see images below). These products, known as rainbow fentanyl, are
targeted to increase addiction in young people and are often packaged in
commercial product packaging (such as holiday candy). Due to their potency,
very small amounts can cause damage to the brain, and lead to overdoses or
overdose death.
ACTION
Naloxone saves lives by reversing opioid overdose. It is quick and easy to
administer, with trainings available across the country. Communities, parents,
and teachers working with youth should consider educating on the dangers of
rainbow fentanyl and seek naloxone training to prevent overdose deaths.
To complete training online, visit
https://www.ihs.gov/opioids/naloxone/naloxonetoolkit/.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
1. https://www.cdc.gov/stopoverdose/fentanyl/index.html
2. https://www.dea.gov/press-releases/2022/08/30/dea-warns-brightly-colored-fentanyl-used-
target- young-americans
3. https://www.dea.gov/fentanylawareness
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