Authorities Warn Young Adults in Florida of Fentanyl-laced Drugs

Summer is officially here, and travelers are ready to cut loose and enjoy some time off. Miami has consistently ranked among the top 10 “party spots” in the world. So, it’s no surprise people are flocking to South Florida beaches for their vacation. But the heat can be felt beyond the beach, as authorities continue to warn people about the dangers of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid so strong that a small dose can be deadly.

The recent fentanyl epidemic has proven to be one of the deadliest drug problems to hit the country. During Spring Break this year, 7 college students overdosed on fentanyl-laced cocaine while at a party in a Vacation rental in Miami. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic painkiller that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine and slows your breathing and heart rate.

Within Miami, cocaine has traditionally been the drug of choice for many people who misuse drugs, and it remains the most seized and analyzed drug by the local crime laboratories in Miami-Dade County.¹ Recently, many drug dealers have cut cocaine with fentanyl or sold fentanyl in place of other illicit narcotics without the user’s knowledge. Recent reports show a dramatic increase in law enforcement seizures of fentanyl-containing powder from January 2018 through December 2021.

Symptoms of Fentanyl Overdose

If you believe someone is experiencing an overdose due to fentanyl it is crucial to call 911 right away. A person that is overdosing on fentanyl may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:¹

• Low blood pressure
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Limp body
• Changes in pupillary size
• Cold and clammy skin
• Blue-colored lips and fingernails (cyanosis)
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Decreased heart rate
• Reduced or loss of consciousness
• Coma

Drug Rehab in Miami

If you are struggling with addiction and looking for rehab near Miami, Recovery First Treatment Center can help kickstart your recovery. Typically, you’ll start with our Hollywood, FL medical detox program which allows you to go through withdrawal under the care of medical professionals who know how to safely relieve your symptoms and keep you comfortable.²

At our inpatient addiction treatment facility, you’ll develop the skills required to change negative and damaging thought patterns and behaviors that may lead to drug misuse. Most of your day is spent in structured therapeutic sessions such as process group therapy, individualized therapy, 12-step meetings, or various wellness classes.