What you should know about fentanyl to stay safe

Fentanyl is a powerful pain medicine. It is a type of medicine called an opioid. It is much stronger than many other opioids, such as morphine. Because it is so powerful, it can help stop very severe pain. Doctors usually only give it to patients with very serious conditions, like cancer. When fentanyl is used incorrectly or in street drugs, it is very dangerous.

Why is Fentanyl Dangerous?

Even though fentanyl can be helpful, it can also be very harmful if not used correctly. Here are some reasons why fentanyl is dangerous:

  • It’s very strong: Even a small amount can cause serious problems, including death.
  • It’s sometimes put in street drugs: Some people might think they are taking pain pills or party drugs, but those drugs could have fentanyl in them. This could happen even if the street drug you are taking is not an opioid.
  • It can lead to addiction: Like other opioids, the longer someone takes fentanyl. After the body gets used to fentanyl, a bigger amount is needed to get the same feeling. It often becomes hard to stop taking it.

How Can You Stay Safe?

If you or someone you know is taking fentanyl, there are things you can do to stay safe:

  1. Follow your provider’s instructions: Only use fentanyl exactly how your provider tells you. Don’t take more than needed.
  2. Please keep it away from others: Make sure no one else can get your medicine. Fentanyl can be very harmful to other people, especially children.
  3. Learn about naloxone: Naloxone is a special medicine that can help stop the bad effects of fentanyl if you take too much or overdose. It’s good to have this medicine with you and know how to use it. Learn more about naloxone at cdph.ca.gov.
  4. Test your street drugs: If you buy drugs off the street, test them with fentanyl strips before you use them. These strips will help tell if the drug has had fentanyl added to it. Check sf.gov to find out where to get test strips.

Learn how to prevent an opioid overdose with naloxone at the California Department of Public Health.

For more information, call SFHP Customer Service at 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(888) 883-7347 (TTY), Monday – Friday, from 8:30am – 5:30pm.

 More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: For more information, call SFHP Customer Service at 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(888) 883-7347 (TTY), Monday – Friday, from 8:30am – 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.