Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

Conversation about drug use within the Black community is a restricted conversation. Beyond hearing the occasional sad story of how some OD'ed and ended up in jail for explicit behavior or witnessing someone exhibit obnoxious erratic mannerisms, we don't like to talk about it. I can certainly understand why there are not any true and in-depth conversations about drugs and drug overdose. There are those who may judge and ridicule those who made the decision to use drugs. Recovering users stand on the other side not wanting to experience further scrutiny of their past choices. It is simply a topic that is smeared with shame, an emotion no one wants to feel. Left in the middle however are those who need to hear the conversation to help make better decisions. Nonetheless, there is a preeminent crisis and spreading knowledge is one way we can all help divert our communities from potential danger.

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) fentanyl is a synthetic controlled substance created and used to treat chronic pain. It was once only administered through a patch on the skin, but is now available for purchase like many other street drugs. In its smallest dosage it is said to be 100 times stronger than other opioids like morphine and oxycodone. Just 2 mg of fentanyl (which is the equivalent of 2 grains of salt) is said to potentially cause an overdose and be fatal. Fentanyl is often added to heroin or cocaine to increase its potency or pedaled as a "better" heroin. When it hits the streets, fentanyl is said to be sold as a white, off-white, or light brown powder, but is easily mixed and manipulated. Now, reports from police across the country are sharing that fentanyl laced marjuana is now causing deaths. An urgent November 2021 report made by health officials in Connecticut shared the cause of many recent drug overdose cases in the state were from weed laced with fentanyl. Once taken it is said to create the effect of sedation, along with feelings of confusion, nausea, low blood pressure, and slowed respiration. Worse side effects include vomiting, difficulty urinating, extreme constipation, chills, and dizziness. Worst effects are permanent brain damage and paralysis. Let's all save lives by having conversations about drugs and the inherent risks they present. This may only scratch the surface but knowledge is power. Spread the word, and help save lives.