Our Island averages
one overdose death
every eight days.
Data show that opioids, including fentanyl, are driving the increase in accidental deaths across Hawaiʻi.
Source: CDC
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is sometimes mixed with other substances. For individuals without opioid tolerance, even a small amount can cause rapid respiratory failure and death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
Because it is colorless and odorless, fentanyl can be extremely difficult to detect without testing. Even a few milligrams can be lethal, making it a leading contributor to drug overdose deaths across Hawaiʻi.
Source: CDC
Emerging Substance Alert:
7-OH and Concentrated Kratom Products
7-OH is an emerging opioid-like substance increasingly being sold in smoke shops, vape stores, convenience stores, and online. Some products are marketed as “enhanced kratom” and may come in the form of gummies, tablets, drink shots, or flavored products.
Although some products are promoted as natural or legal alternatives, concentrated 7-OH products can carry serious risks, including:
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Addiction and dependence
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Sedation and slowed breathing
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Dangerous interactions with alcohol or other substances
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Increased overdose risk
Some products may contain highly concentrated or unknown ingredients, making effects unpredictable.
If someone is experiencing an overdose or is unresponsive after using opioids or opioid-like substances, administer naloxone and call 911 immediately.
Know the signs of an overdose.
Do you know what an overdose looks like?
The most common symptoms are:
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Tiny pupils
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Limp body
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Unable to talk
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Pale, gray, or bluish skin, lips, or nails
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Cold or clammy skin
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Breathing is very slow or has stopped
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Extremely sleepy or passing out
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Snoring, choking, or gurgling sounds
Visit the Naloxone Page to learn the basics of reversing an opioid overdose.
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