Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than morphine, is increasingly showing up in unexpected places. Could it also be in cannabis? If so, this could create a life-threatening risk of accidental overdoses, even for people who wouldn’t normally use illicit drugs.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a fact sheet in August 2023 to share more information on this topic, debunk some common misconceptions, and inform readers on how to stay safe. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know.
For a deeper understanding of how addiction develops, treatment options, and recovery timelines, explore our Guide to treatment & recovery.
Understanding the Dangers of Fentanyl
Much of the concern over fentanyl-laced weed stems from the fact that this illegally manufactured drug has been linked to so many overdose deaths. In 2024 alone, synthetic opioids (primarily fentanyl) were responsible for 48,422 fatal overdoses in the U.S.
The FDA’s Office of Cannabis Management understands the public’s concern that this highly dangerous drug could make its way into cannabis supplies across the country. As more states continue to legalize weed for recreational use, fears around possible contamination have started to spread.
As of the release date of the fact sheet, the anecdotal claims regarding contaminated cannabis have been proven false. In fact, out of all the stories that may have been shared in person, online, or through social media channels about this prospective problem, there haven’t been any verified incidents of regulated cannabis being contaminated by fentanyl.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this only applies to the regulated cannabis market. If someone secures unregulated cannabis from an unscrupulous source, the FDA does not guarantee that it won’t contain any type of contaminants or otherwise damaging ingredients.
These products are untrustworthy and could include undisclosed additions that alter the effects and severity of the drug. Their labels often contain inaccurate information in an attempt to mislead buyers.
The most proactive measure that individuals can take moving forward is to understand how to prevent an opioid overdose and employ effective harm reduction strategies to ensure health and safety.
Where Does Fentanyl Show Up?
While fentanyl hasn’t been found in cannabis to date, there are other drugs that could contain this deadly ingredient.
Some of the other substances that have been known to include fentanyl include:
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine,
- Pressed pills
- MDMA
Testing for Fentanyl Laced Cannabis
To date, there aren’t any 100% reliable protocols used to test the cannabis flower for the presence of fentanyl.
However, fentanyl test strips are often used to discern if fentanyl is present in other types of illicit drugs, including ones in pill, powder, or injectable form. Knowing that the drug you intend to consume contains this potentially fatal drug can help prevent accidental overdoses.
Why can’t the same process be replicated on the cannabis flower? The FDA explains that most fentanyl test strips are designed to be used on water-soluble substances.
The NY State Office of Addiction Services and Supports reinforces this, explaining in their Fentanyl Test Strip Guidance outlines that since fentanyl has not been found in the country’s cannabis supply, fentanyl test strips should not be used for this purpose.
How to Stay Safe
If you plan to use cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes, the best way to ensure the drug is free from unknown contaminants, including fentanyl, is to always source the substance from a state-licensed dispensary.
Products sold in these dispensaries have passed rigorous lab testing to ensure they’re free of all types of dangerous contaminants.
In addition to fentanyl, these could include:
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
- Residual solvents
Understanding Opioid Overdose
If someone takes a drug that unknowingly contains fentanyl, their risk of experiencing an overdose heightens.
What does it look like when someone is in an active opioid overdose? Knowing the answer to this question can help you act quickly as soon as you recognize the signs.
Symptoms of opioid overdose include:
- Slow and shallow breathing
- Drowsiness or loss of consciousness
- Limp body
- Pale, blue, or cold skin
- Choking sounds
- Constricted pupils
If you or someone you know shows any of these symptoms, call 911 right away. And, if Narcan is available, don’t hesitate to use it. Overdoses can quickly become fatal. Every second counts.
Fentanyl-laced cannabis might not be a current issue, but drug contamination still exists. Additionally, individuals still secure cannabis and other drugs from unregulated markets, raising their overdose risk.
Visit our Guide to treatment & recovery to learn how treatment programs can help individuals overcome opioid dependence and rebuild their lives safely.
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