Fentanyl overdoses spike in Butte. What is this dangerous, deadly drug?

A dramatic increase in fentanyl overdoses in Butte has public health officials, police and citizens on high alert.  The introduction of a potentially new, potent version of the deadly drug into our community is raising many questions.  What is fentanyl?  Why is it so dangerous?

Fentanyl abuse has emerged as one of the most pressing public health crises in recent years, with devastating consequences for individuals and families in Southwest Montana. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times more potent than morphine, and its misuse has led to a dramatic increase in overdose deaths across the globe, particularly in North America with many cases right here in Butte. 6 were reported in a 72-hour period between Friday and Sunday here in the Mining City.  The danger of fentanyl abuse stems from its potency, the ease with which it can be laced into other illicit drugs, and the significant risk of accidental overdose even for individuals with prior opioid tolerance.

One of the biggest dangers of fentanyl abuse is its extreme potency. Even small amounts of fentanyl can cause a lethal overdose. For instance, just two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, a dose so small it is almost imperceptible to the eye. This makes it particularly dangerous for people who are not aware they are consuming fentanyl. In recent years, fentanyl has been found mixed into other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit prescription pills. Users of these drugs may have no idea they are ingesting fentanyl which significantly increases their risk of overdose.

Another alarming aspect of fentanyl abuse is its potential for respiratory depression. Like other opioids, fentanyl works by binding to receptors in the brain that control pain and emotional responses. However, it also suppresses the body's ability to breathe, and an overdose can cause breathing to slow or stop altogether. Without immediate medical intervention, such as the administration of naloxone (an opioid antagonist), an overdose can quickly lead to death. The rapid onset of fentanyl's effects makes it particularly dangerous, as users may not realize they are in trouble until it is too late.

The opioid epidemic, fueled in part by fentanyl, has overwhelmed healthcare systems and law enforcement agencies. Overdose deaths related to fentanyl have skyrocketed, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that fentanyl was involved in nearly 70% of all opioid-related deaths in the United States in recent years. The situation is further complicated by the fact that fentanyl is often mixed with other substances, making it difficult for users to gauge the potency or identify the drugs they are consuming.

The danger of fentanyl abuse also extends to public safety. Emergency responders, law enforcement, and even medical personnel are at risk of exposure during drug seizures or when responding to overdose calls.   Anyone with information on the recent overdoses or who may have information on the people behind the drug's distribution are urged to call the Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement Department at (406) 497-1120.