Santa Clara County reported its first carfentanil overdose death, highlighting the increasing risk of this potent synthetic opioid. A 39-year-old man died from an overdose linked to counterfeit M30 pills. Health officials warn against the dangers of fake pills resembling prescription medications. Carfentanil is 100 times stronger than fentanyl and is not intended for human use. Overdose fatalities related to carfentanil surged from 29 to 238 in just one year. Communities are urged to carry naloxone and contact emergency services when witnessing an overdose.
Fake pills look real, but they can be deadly. People should not take any pill that they did not buy from the pharmacy.
Deaths involving carfentanil appear to be on the rise in the United States, with a sevenfold increase from 29 in the first half of 2023 to 238 in 2024.
The county urged community members to call 911 if they encounter someone suffering from an overdose and, if possible, administer naloxone.
The Santa Clara County Opioid Overdose Prevention Project offers free naloxone by mail to residents 18 or older.
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