Fentanyl Poisoning vs. Overdose: What’s the Difference and How to Protect Yourself

The opioid crisis has introduced a dangerous new player: fentanyl. But while the terms “overdose” and “poisoning” are often used interchangeably, they have key differences, and understanding them can be life-saving.

Fentanyl Poisoning: Unlike a typical overdose where a person takes too much of a drug, fentanyl poisoning occurs when fentanyl is unknowingly mixed into another substance, like heroin, cocaine, or counterfeit pills. Even the smallest amount of fentanyl, as little as 2 milligrams, can be lethal, catching users off guard.

Overdose: An overdose generally occurs when someone knowingly takes a drug but takes too much. This can happen with opioids like fentanyl, where the line between a safe dose and a fatal one is very thin.

To protect yourself from fentanyl poisoning, it’s crucial to test any substance you plan to use. Stay Safe Fam offers fentanyl test strips that detect even trace amounts of the drug, giving you the power to make informed decisions.

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