Fentanyl is becoming an increasing threat in Lassen County, affecting teens to seniors.
Vanessa with Susanville Indian Health Clinic says she has seen a jump in the number of people in the county that are using the deadly opioid and are seeking help and services. She adds that the addiction typically stems from an injury where the drug is prescribed to the user, but as time goes on, the amount the user needs to feel the effects increase, and more Fentanyl is sought.
Nicole Bond from LC Behavioral Health says a mere 2 milligrams can kill the average person, equivalent to a couple of grains of salt. However, for those that abuse opioids, that tolerance increases with use. Bond shares some street terms you should be aware of when talking with your teens: Greenies, Green Apple, crazy 8s, and Fenti, to only name a few. There are, of course, many others. Rainbow fentanyl is also out on the streets, targeting the younger population, as it is made to resemble candy.
You can learn more about fentanyl awareness and how to deal with a possible prescribed overdose by visiting Behavioral Health or your nearest medical center.
