Fentanyl is a growing concern nationally and worldwide. Originally a prescription painkiller, fentanyl is now a deadly street drug that’s killing more and more users. Fentanyl overdoses that result in death can happen with exposure levels of under 0.00015 grams. Understanding the trends, demographics and impacts of fentanyl abuse is essential to grasp the scale of this crisis and work toward effective solutions. Here, we explore fentanyl use trends, key statistics on abuse and the toll on individuals and communities.
Overview of Fentanyl Overdose and Use Trends: National and Global Perspectives
Pain control is a constant struggle for doctors seeking safe ways to offset the discomfort and pain caused by surgical treatments and pain from illnesses such as cancer or rheumatoid arthritis. Fentanyl was originally developed to help control pain, but like many opioids, it’s addictive. It also has a potency 50x greater than heroin and 100x times stronger than morphine.
In the United States, fentanyl-related deaths have skyrocketed, particularly over the last decade, as it’s increasingly used in combination with other drugs or cut into substances like heroin, cocaine and even counterfeit prescription pills. Fentanyl is now the leading cause of opioid-related overdose deaths in the United States and Canada, and the impact has extended to other regions, particularly Western Europe, where synthetic opioid use is growing.
Rates of Fentanyl Use and Overdose Deaths
The rise in fentanyl abuse is best reflected in overdose statistics. In the United States, deaths involving synthetic opioids have surged. Between 2013 and 2021, fentanyl overdose deaths increased by more than 1,000%, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). By 2021, fentanyl and other synthetic opioids were implicated in over 70% of all opioid-related overdose deaths.
Overdose deaths are almost entirely related to the illegal manufacture and sale of fentanyl. When prescribed, the risk of an overdose is significantly reduced. Fentanyl statistics reveal that it’s among the most dangerous illicit drugs on the market today.
Demographics Most Affected by Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl abuse affects a diverse range of people, but certain demographic groups are particularly impacted:
- Young adults (ages 18-35). Fentanyl abuse is widespread among young adults, who are often unknowingly exposed to fentanyl through other drugs like heroin, cocaine and counterfeit pills.
- Middle-aged adults (ages 35-54). This demographic also experiences high rates of fentanyl abuse, particularly those with a history of prescription opioid use who transitioned to fentanyl. Economic instability, chronic pain and limited access to mental health resources contribute to higher risk in this group.
- Veterans and individuals with chronic pain: Veterans, particularly those who suffer from injuries or PTSD, are at higher risk of opioid addiction and subsequent fentanyl exposure. Similarly, individuals with chronic pain who initially relied on prescription opioids often turn to fentanyl as these prescriptions become less accessible.
The impact of fentanyl abuse extends beyond direct users. Families, particularly children of those affected, are often caught in the turmoil, experiencing social, emotional and financial instability.
Correlation Between Fentanyl and Other Drug Use
Fentanyl’s high potency and frequent presence in other substances make it a common contributor to unintended polydrug use. Fentanyl is often mixed with or substituted for other drugs, sometimes without the user’s knowledge, creating a lethal combination.
One of the most dangerous aspects of fentanyl abuse is its increasing presence in the non-opioid drug market. In many cases, fentanyl is found in counterfeit pills that mimic prescription drugs like Xanax, Adderall or oxycodone. These counterfeit pills are sold to people who may not know about the possibility of a fatal overdose, even with a single pill that has a minute amount of fentanyl. It only takes 0.002 grams to cause certain death. Even half that much comes with a very high risk.
Because fentanyl is often used in other drugs, it can be difficult to notice and treat. For example, someone taking methamphetamine might not notice the depressant effect of the fentanyl until already experiencing an overdose.
Impacts on Public Health, Economic Costs and Communities
The public health implications of fentanyl abuse are vast and multifaceted, affecting everything from individual health outcomes to broader societal and economic costs.
- Health care burden. Emergency rooms are experiencing record numbers of fentanyl-related cases, which can quickly overwhelm a hospital without the resources to offer treatment to enough patients. Treating fentanyl overdoses requires immediate intervention and often advanced medical support, including ventilators and intensive care.
- Economic costs. The economic impact of fentanyl abuse in the United States alone is staggering at a $1 trillion economic burden, as reported by the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers as of 2022. This total includes the cost of emergency responders, law enforcement efforts, court processes and the long-term costs associated with rehabilitation.
- Community impact. Fentanyl abuse is tearing apart communities, leading to an increased demand for social services and local resources. As parents die, leaving behind young children, the need for added support in school only grows.
With more people using fentanyl comes the need for more treatment options to help them with sobriety. And as with any substance abuse, facts about fentanyl suggest we’ll be paying the bill for prevention efforts for a long time to come.
When to Seek Help for Fentanyl Abuse
Fentanyl abuse is a serious condition that requires timely and comprehensive intervention. If you or someone you know is struggling with fentanyl use, don’t hesitate to seek help.
If you’re ready to make a change, call the National Rehab Hotline for confidential support, guidance and resources that can lead you on a path to recovery. Help is only a call away, and support is available 24-7 to help you regain control and overcome the challenges of fentanyl addiction.