Know the Risk

We need to address a critical issue that's impacting our communities. Fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic drug, is making its way into counterfeit pills that are being sold as Adderall, Percocet, Oxycodone, and Xanax on social media platforms. This is a serious problem that we can't ignore.

Fentanyl is incredibly dangerous. It's up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. And here's the thing: you can't see it, smell it, or taste it. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) estimates that 6 out of 10 fake pills contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl. That's a scary statistic.

It's important to understand that these aren't the same pills you'd get from a pharmacy. Fentanyl is often smuggled across the border as a powder and then pressed into pills that look just like the real deal. But there's no quality control, and the amount of fentanyl in each pill can vary wildly. Just two tiny grains of fentanyl can be enough to cause an overdose.

Drug dealers are specifically targeting young people through social media ads. It’s almost as easy as ordering a pizza or take out on your phone. They know that pills seem more acceptable and less risky than drugs like meth or heroin. And because these pills don't have a strong odor like alcohol or marijuana, teens often think they're "safe." But the reality is that experimenting with pills is more dangerous than ever before.

It's crucial to recognize that anyone could be at risk, not just those who fit the stereotypical image of a drug user. Many young people turn to pills to cope with anxiety or other mental health issues, while others are just looking to have some fun. But in a world where one pill can kill, there's no such thing as harmless experimentation.

In Oregon City School District, we strongly believe in the power of education. By providing our students with the facts about fentanyl and reinforcing that message regularly, we can empower them to make more informed decisions. But parents, we also need your help. The lessons learned at school must be reinforced at home.

Let's work together to protect our youth from this dangerous drug. Stay informed, know the risk, connect and talk openly with your students, and be vigilant. Together, we can make a difference and keep our communities safe.