Miller County Sees Increased Fentanyl OD’s

The Miller County Sheriff’s Office has received increased reports of overdoses due to drugs mixed with fentanyl, particularly cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills.
Between early January and mid-July, at least 29 emergency 911 calls were received for overdosed patients by the department involved the use of various substances that were likely laced with fentanyl. The Department says it is important to know that it is possible to have an opioid overdose from a stimulant that is laced with fentanyl.

Symptoms of an opioid overdose include Unconsciousness, inability to wake up, Limp body, falling asleep, extreme drowsiness, slow, shallow, irregular, or no breathing. Pale, blue, cold, and/or clammy skin. Choking, snoring, or gurgling sounds, slow or no heartbeat.

Fentanyl-related overdose deaths have been increasing in Miller County since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between July 1, 2021, and mid-July, 2022, there have been 4 fentanyl-involved overdose deaths in Miller County, showing an increase of 45% compared to the same time period the previous year.

If you suspect a drug overdose, call 911 immediately, provide the location of the overdose and stay with the individual until help arrives. Missouri has a medical amnesty law that protects individuals who may be experiencing an overdose and callers seeking medical attention for drug overdoses. Naloxone reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and can be obtained from pharmacies in Missouri without a prescription.

For access to services and immediate crisis help, the Missouri Crisis & Access Line 1-888- 761-4357 or Text “HAND” to 839-863, which is available 24/7.