Can you overdose on fentanyl?
Yes, but fentanyl overdoses can often be reversed.
Yes, you can overdose on fentanyl. Remember: not all overdoses are fatal, but even non-fatal overdoses can have lasting health effects.
Fentanyl has been involved in the majority of overdose deaths in the United States since 2017.
People often overdose on fentanyl by taking too much or taking more than they anticipated. It is a highly potent opioid so only a small amount can cause an overdose. People with no opioid tolerance are most at risk for a fentanyl overdose if they accidentally consume the drug. However, people with established opioid tolerance are also at risk. This is because they may be accustomed to consuming lower-potency opioids such as heroin or oxycodone or not know what or how much they are taking. Drugs in the underground market are not labeled and tested. This means people may accidentally consume high doses of fentanyl without their knowledge. The risk of a fentanyl overdose is higher if the fentanyl is consumed with other opioids or depressant drugs, like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or tranquilizers.
