The Dangers of Fentanyl and Synthetic Drugs

A Growing Threat to Youth Health and Safety

The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority. As part of our commitment to student health and community awareness, we want to ensure that families are informed about the growing danger of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids – substances that are increasingly affecting young people in communities across California and the nation.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. While it can be prescribed by doctors to treat severe pain, illicit fentanyl is often made in illegal labs and is mixed into counterfeit pills that are made to look like prescription medications such as Xanax, Oxycodone, or Adderall. It is also sometimes mixed into other street drugs like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine – often without the user’s knowledge.

Even a very small amount – just 2 milligrams – can be deadly.

Why Is This So Dangerous?

Teens may be unaware they are taking fentanyl. Many believe they are experimenting with a prescription pill or using a drug they’ve tried before, not realizing it has been tainted with this deadly substance.

Accidental fentanyl overdoses have become one of the leading causes of death among teens in California. The crisis has impacted schools and families across the state, with heartbreaking stories of young lives lost after taking a single pill.

What Families and Students Need to Know

Never take any pill or substance that was not prescribed to you by a medical provider and dispensed by a pharmacy.
Talk to your children about the dangers of drug use – especially fake pills and fentanyl.
Social media is a common avenue for distribution. Students may be offered drugs online from people they don’t know.
Narcan (naloxone) is a medication that can reverse a fentanyl overdose. In emergencies, calling 911 immediately can save a life.

Resources for Parents and Students

We encourage all families to stay informed and connected. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, please reach out to a school counselor, nurse, or administrator. We are here to support you.