Spotlight on Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that can be dangerous to anyone, including children. It is a prescription drug primarily used to manage severe pain, but it can also be illegally produced and sold on the black market.

Children can be at risk of fentanyl overdose if they accidentally ingest the drug or are exposed to it through skin contact or inhalation. Even small amounts of fentanyl can be fatal to children, especially those who are not used to taking opioids.

Fentanyl can be dangerous to children in the following situations:

Accidental ingestion: Children may accidentally ingest fentanyl if they find it in the medicine cabinet or if an adult caregiver leaves it within reach.

Exposure to fentanyl patches: Fentanyl patches are used to manage chronic pain in adults, but they can be dangerous to children if they come into contact with them or accidentally ingest them.

Exposure to fentanyl during pregnancy: If a pregnant woman takes fentanyl, the drug can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus. Fentanyl can cause respiratory depression in newborns if the mother takes the drug close to delivery.

Fentanyl laced with other drugs: Fentanyl is sometimes mixed with other drugs, such as heroin or cocaine, which can increase the risk of overdose.

It is essential to keep fentanyl and other prescription drugs out of reach of children and to dispose of them safely when they are no longer needed. If you suspect that your child has been exposed to fentanyl, seek medical attention immediately.