The opioid crisis has been spreading in the United States for over a decade, and the state of Missouri has not been spared. In 2017 alone, a staggering 547 Missourians died from opioid overdoses, and the majority of these cases involved fentanyl. Fentanyl is a dangerous and highly addictive synthetic drug which has seen a dramatic increase in usage in Missouri over the past few years. The essay discusses the dangers of fentanyl, the effects the drug has had on Missouri, and the efforts being taken by the state to combat this growing epidemic.
The danger of fentanyl lies in its extreme potency, which makes it a common additive to heroin, cocaine, and other drugs. This mixture can lead to an increased risk of overdose due to users being unable to accurately measure the amount they are taking. Furthermore, fentanyl has a shorter half-life than other opioids, leading to a buildup of the drug in the user’s system even when only small amounts are taken, which makes it especially hazardous for those unaware of the greater strength of fentanyl.
The devastating effects of fentanyl on Missouri have been alarming. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, there were more than 600 opioid-related deaths in 2015, with fentanyl being the most commonly used drug. Particularly troubling is the fact that the majority of these deaths occur among individuals aged 25-44, with a significant number of deaths also occurring among 18-24 year-olds. This has put an immense strain on the state’s healthcare system, leading to a rise in overdose-related hospitalizations and an increasing number of opioid-related fatalities. Additionally, the drug has caused an increase in criminal activity as users turn to desperate measures to acquire the drug.
In order to combat the opioid epidemic in Missouri caused by the fentanyl crisis, the state has taken several steps. These include increasing access to treatment and supportive services for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder, expanding access to naloxone, a medication which can reverse an opioid overdose, and strengthening prescription drug monitoring programs. Furthemore, initiatives have been implemented to prevent the diversion of prescription opioids, such as enhancing education about the risks of opioid use, and providing resources for the safe storage and disposal of opioids. To create a comprehensive plan to address the opioid crisis, the state has established an opioid summit to bring together state and local officials.
The fentanyl crisis in Missouri poses a risk to most people. It leads to loss of health, money, jobs, and severe serious problems that cannot be ignored. To address the crisis, measures must be taken, including educational programs, support and getting the right treatment. The only way to prevent the consequences of fentanyl consciousness is to fight it in a timely and active manner.
Lastly, the opioid crisis in Missouri poses a major threat to public health and must be addressed in order to lower the amount of opioid-related fatalities. To accomplish this, the state must prioritize prevention and education, expand access to naloxone, and invest in addiction treatment and prevention programs. If Missouri takes a broad-based approach to this issue, it can make a significant impact in reducing the number of fentanyl-related deaths. The state should also continue to provide access to treatment and rehabilitation services to those struggling with addiction, and increase awareness of the risks associated with fentanyl use.