Synthetic Drugs are chemically created in a lab to mimic another drug. These typically have a different effect on the brain or behavior. Because these drugs are created in illegal labs, their ingredients are impossible to know.

The dangers associated with unprescribed synthetic drugs like fentanyl cannot be overstated. These substances are often significantly more potent than traditional illegal drugs, with fentanyl being up to 100 times stronger than morphine. Even microscopic amounts can be lethal, and the margin between a non-fatal dose and a fatal overdose is extremely narrow. Parents need to understand that these drugs can cause immediate respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and death, often within minutes of ingestion. Unlike prescription medications that undergo rigorous testing and quality control, synthetic drugs manufactured illegally have no safety standards, making their effects unpredictable and potentially catastrophic.

A particularly insidious aspect of the current drug crisis is the prevalence of counterfeit pills that appear identical to legitimate prescription medications. These fake pills often contain fentanyl or other dangerous synthetic substances, even when they're designed to look like common medications such as oxycodone, Xanax, or Adderall. Young people may believe they're taking a relatively safe prescription drug, unaware that they're actually consuming a potentially lethal substance. This deception has led to numerous accidental overdoses among teenagers and young adults who had no intention of using fentanyl or other synthetic opioids.

Social media platforms have become a new frontier for drug dealers to market and distribute these dangerous substances. Dealers use coded language, emojis, and private messaging features to connect with potential buyers, often targeting young people who may be more trusting of online interactions. Parents should be aware that drug transactions can occur through popular platforms their children use daily, and that dealers often present themselves as legitimate sellers of prescription medications. The anonymity and accessibility of social media make it easier than ever for young people to unknowingly purchase counterfeit drugs, making parental awareness and open communication about these risks more critical than ever.

COMMON TYPES

Synthetic Cannabinoids
Also known as “Spice” or “K2”, these substances are designed to mimic the effects of cannabis.

Synthetic Cathinones
Also referred to as “bath salts,” these substances are created to mimic the effects of stimulant drugs like amphetamines or cocaine.

Synthetic Cannabinoids
These substances are created to mimic the effects of hallucinogenic drugs such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms.

Other Synthetic Drugs
There are various other synthetic drugs on the market, such as synthetic opioids including Fentanyl, and other synthetic stimulants.

SIDE EFFECTS OF SYNTHETIC DRUGS

• Hallucinations
• Paranoia
• Psychosis
• Excited delirium
• Anxiety & panic attacks
• Tremors
• Seizures & convulsions
• Temporary paralysis
• Increased agitation & aggression
• Difficulty breathing
• Kidney failure
• Death
• Decreased inhibitions
• Increased heart rate, blood pressure & heart attack
• Increased body temperature& excessive sweating

Recovery is possible!
For resources, visit the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) website.

Sonoma County Fentanyl Awareness & Community Support: One Pill Can Kill https://soco-onepillcankill.org/