Fentanyl is a strong synthetic opioid that is intended to relieve pain effectively. However, because of its potency—up to 100 times stronger than morphine—it has emerged as a dangerous player in the field of substance abuse. In recent years, the widespread use of fentanyl has led to a spike in overdose deaths across the country.
The rise of drugs laced with fentanyl in the greater Chicago area is a cause for concern. According to the Chicago Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, 804,551 fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills were seized in 2022 alone.1 When someone unknowingly takes a pill laced with fentanyl, it can have deadly consequences. Treatment for opioid addiction can help those who might be at risk of taking one of these lethal pills.
Recovery Centers of America offers a specialized fentanyl addiction treatment program near Chicago to help individuals struggling with opioid addiction find lasting recovery. Call 1-800-RECOVERY today to learn more about our program and how we can support you or a loved one.
Drugs Laced with Fentanyl in Greater Chicago
Picture this: heroin, cocaine, and even marijuana—drugs with an unfortunately familiar presence in our society—now have an even more sinister twist. They’re being laced with fentanyl, increasing their potency and the risks.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, which means it’s man-made. Its chemical structure and potency are similar to heroin, but it can be as much as 100 times stronger.
The rise in fentanyl-laced drugs in the greater Chicago area is largely due to its low cost and high potency. Dealers can mix small amounts of fentanyl into their product and sell it for a higher profit. However, this comes at a significant cost to the individuals who may be unknowingly taking fentanyl.
Fentanyl Overdoses in Illinois
The chilling evidence of the destructive potential of fentanyl-laced drugs is seen in the statistics from right here in Illinois. The numbers are not merely digits on a page but represent real people—individuals whose lives have been tragically affected by this opioid crisis.
In 2022, Cook County reported 1,825 fentanyl-related overdose deaths, nearly a 100% increase from 2019.2 While this number is alarming on its own, it’s even more concerning when considering that the majority of these deaths involved multiple drugs—most commonly, fentanyl and cocaine or fentanyl and heroin.
Recognizing the Problem: Identifying Laced Drugs
Is it possible to protect yourself or a loved one from taking drugs laced with fentanyl in Chicago? The short answer is yes. Of course, seeking help and treatment for opioid addiction is the best solution—our team at Recovery Centers of America can support you in that journey. However, knowing the signs of laced drugs can save lives and give people another chance to seek help.
While you may not always be able to detect fentanyl by appearance or smell, there are other ways to identify potential laced drugs, such as:
- Knowing the signs of opioid overdose: pinpoint pupils, slowed breathing or heart rate, loss of consciousness.
- Educating yourself about the signs and symptoms of fentanyl use and addiction.
- Being aware of any recent drug trends in your area.
- Avoiding drug use altogether and seeking help if you or a loved one struggle with substance abuse.
This last point is critical. If you or a loved one are struggling with opioid addiction, it’s time to seek help from a trusted treatment provider. Recovery Centers of America offers compassionate and comprehensive care for those battling fentanyl addiction in the greater Chicago area.
Call Recovery Centers of America for Help Today
Opioid addiction is dangerous enough on its own, but with fentanyl-laced drugs becoming increasingly prevalent in the greater Chicago area, it’s more important than ever to seek help. Our specialized fentanyl addiction treatment program at Recovery Centers of America can provide you or a loved one with the resources and support needed for lasting recovery. Contact us today at 1-800-RECOVERY or reach out online to learn more.
Sources:
