Why is fentanyl a threat to youth in Oregon?

Youth may use drugs for different reasons.

  • Youth may use drugs to cope with mental health problems and stress. Many are still struggling from the effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on their lives in and outside of school.
  • Youth may experiment with drugs with their friends or in social settings.
  • Youth may desire oxycodone pills for the feelings of euphoria they can cause.

Fake pills are easy to get at school or via social media.

  • There are accounts on social media designed to sell pills and other drugs.
  • Snapchat is a popular tool for purchasing drugs because messages disappear.

When youth use illegal pills, they may not know:

  • That the pills are fake. They may think the pills came from a doctor or pharmacist.
  • That counterfeit pills contain fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.
  • What fentanyl is, or know that one pill can be deadly.
  • How to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose.

Show All Answers

1. What is fentanyl?
2. Why is fentanyl a threat to youth in Oregon?
3. How can schools and parents work together to reduce youth overdose risks?
4. What should schools do?
5. What should parents do?