Fentanyl Awareness: One Pill Can Kill
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that has become a major driver of overdose deaths across the United States, including in Arizona. While fentanyl is sometimes prescribed in medical settings to treat severe pain, the overwhelming majority of overdoses are linked to illegally manufactured fentanyl. This illicit version is often mixed into other drugs without the user’s knowledge, greatly increasing the risk of serious harm or death.
One of the most dangerous trends involves counterfeit prescription pills. Illegal drug manufacturers produce fake pills designed to look like legitimate medications such as pain relievers or anti-anxiety drugs. These counterfeit pills are commonly sold on the street or through social media and messaging apps. Teens and young adults may believe they are purchasing a familiar prescription drug, not realizing the pill may contain fentanyl. Because fentanyl has no reliable smell, taste, or visible warning signs, there is no way to tell whether a pill is safe. The result is a life-threatening risk from a single pill.
The “One Pill Can Kill” campaign highlights this reality. Even one counterfeit pill can contain enough fentanyl to cause an overdose. This campaign is being shared across Arizona through billboards, social media, and community outreach to raise awareness and encourage safer choices. The message is clear: taking pills that are not prescribed directly to you by a licensed medical professional and filled by a legitimate pharmacy is never safe.
The Role of Narcan in Saving Lives
Narcan® (naloxone) is a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered quickly. Naloxone works by blocking opioids from attaching to receptors in the brain, helping to restore breathing while emergency medical help is on the way. Naloxone does not cause harm if opioids are not present and has no potential for misuse.
In Arizona, naloxone is legal and widely available. Many pharmacies provide it without an individual prescription. It is also distributed through local health departments, community health organizations, harm-reduction programs, and some schools and workplaces. Carrying naloxone and knowing how to recognize an overdose can save lives and give first responders valuable time to arrive.
Learning about naloxone is not an admission of drug use. It is a preventive safety measure, similar to learning CPR or carrying a first-aid kit. Parents, educators, friends, and community members can all play a role in overdose prevention by being informed and prepared.
Prevention Through Education and Awareness
Preventing fentanyl-related harm starts with honest conversations and accurate information. Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk openly with teens and young adults about the dangers of counterfeit pills and illegal drugs. Emphasizing that “looking safe” does not mean “being safe” can help reduce risky behavior. Schools, community organizations, and faith-based groups also play an important role in spreading awareness and reducing stigma.
Avoiding illicit drugs, refusing pills that were not prescribed, and understanding the risks associated with experimentation are critical steps in prevention. Awareness saves lives, and informed decisions can prevent irreversible outcomes.
How to Get Help in Arizona
Substance use disorder is a medical condition, and help is available. No one has to face it alone. Arizona offers a range of confidential, low-cost, and free resources for individuals and families seeking support.
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) provides treatment referrals, prevention programs, and recovery resources statewide. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a confidential, 24/7 national helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), as well as an online treatment locator to find services near you.
Additional support may be available through local community health centers, tribal health programs, veterans’ services, and nonprofit organizations. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not failure, and early intervention can save lives.
A Shared Responsibility
The Arizona Department of Public Safety, in partnership with local, state, and federal agencies, continues to target illegal fentanyl distribution while promoting education, prevention, and access to lifesaving resources. The “One Pill Can Kill” campaign serves as a reminder that awareness, preparedness, and compassion can protect our communities.
By staying informed, carrying naloxone, and knowing where to find help, Arizonans can take meaningful steps to prevent fentanyl-related tragedies and support those on the path to recovery.