Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that has become a leading cause of overdose deaths in Nevada and across the country. According to the CDC, fentanyl is involved in the majority of opioid‑related overdose deaths nationwide, and Nevada is one of the states that has continued to see increases in overdose deaths even as national numbers have declined. In recent years, Nevada has recorded more than 1,400 overdose deaths annually, with fentanyl playing a significant role.
One of the greatest dangers of fentanyl is that it is often mixed into other drugs or pressed into counterfeit pills without a person’s knowledge. Fentanyl is up to 100 times more potent than morphine, meaning it takes only a very small amount to cause an overdose. This has led to a rise in accidental overdoses among people who may not even realize they are taking an opioid.
Recognizing an overdose can save a life. Warning signs include slow or stopped breathing, blue or gray lips or fingernails, unconsciousness, choking or gurgling sounds, and cold or clammy skin. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately and use naloxone (Narcan) if available. Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, and national data shows it has helped reduce overdose deaths when widely accessible.
Northern Nevada HOPES plays a critical role in addressing the fentanyl crisis by providing compassionate, judgment‑free care. HOPES offers medications for opioid use disorder and behavioral health treatment for addiction. Medications, including oral and injectable buprenorphine, cut overdose risk in half. Behavioral treatment, including peer support, case management, group and individual therapy are available for interested patients.
If you or someone you love is affected by fentanyl or opioid use, help is available.
– Contact the MAT Team by calling the MAT Direct Line: (775)236-0003
– Attend MAT Orientation on Tuesdays @ 4pm; HOPES 4thStreet Clinic, 1st Floor (1905 E. 4th St. Reno NV 89512)
– See HOPES Primary Care Provider who can facilitate MAT services.
If there is an immediate emergency, call 911. For emotional crisis support, call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Fentanyl is a serious threat in our community, but lives can be saved. Awareness, harm reduction, and access to care make recovery possible, and no one has to face this alone.
