Fentanyl Poisoning Children: Alarming Rise and Prevention Tips

Understanding the Growing Threat

The issue of fentanyl poisoning in children and adolescents has reached alarming levels and deserves urgent attention. Recent research reveals that from 2015 to 2023, the number of nonfatal fentanyl poisoning cases involving children increased dramatically by more than 1,000 percent. Even more concerning, nearly half of reported cases in 2023 were life-threatening. This blog aims to explore what’s behind these shocking numbers, how cases of fentanyl poisoning in children are evolving, and what parents and caregivers need to know to help keep young people safe.

Key Findings on Fentanyl Poisoning Cases in Children

Sharp Rise in Dangerous Exposures

Between 2015 and 2023, over 3,000 nonfatal fentanyl poisoning cases in children were documented. The rate of these incidents increased by 1,194%. Alarmingly, the severity of these exposures has also grown, with almost 45% classified as life-threatening in 2023, compared to just 16% in 2015.

Who Is at Risk?

The data show clear patterns by age group:

Young Children (0–12 years): Most exposures (over 80%) were unintentional, often happening at home when children touch or ingest something left within reach.
Teens (13–19 years): Nearly two-thirds of exposures were intentional, mainly from using drugs nonmedically.

These trends signal a need for increased alertness among adults in both the home and community settings.

Fentanyl Poisoning Children: How It Happens

Counterfeit Pills and Hidden Dangers

A major driver in the rise of fentanyl poisoning among children is the growing presence of counterfeit pills. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has found that half of all counterfeit pills they seize contain potentially deadly doses of fentanyl. These pills are made to look like regular medications such as Xanax, Adderall, or oxycodone, but contain illicit fentanyl, increasing the chances of accidental or intentional use among young people.

Even small amounts of fentanyl can be life-threatening, especially for children. For comparison, 2 milligrams—about the same weight as a few grains of table salt—is enough to cause serious harm or death.

Secondhand Exposure & Paraphernalia

It’s not just pills that pose a risk. Used fentanyl patches, baggies, or paraphernalia contain dangerous residue that can be absorbed through the skin or accidentally swallowed. Younger children may touch, taste, or mimic adult behaviour without realising the grave risks. Even minimal exposure can lead to poisoning.

Route of Exposure

Most cases in children involve swallowing the drug, but among teenagers, inhaling fentanyl is also common. This highlights the importance of monitoring not just what’s in children’s reach, but also warning about the methods teens may use to take drugs.

The Changing Face of the Opioid Crisis

The Fourth Wave

Today’s opioid crisis is marked by the spread of illicitly manufactured fentanyl, often mixed with other drugs like psychostimulants. This has added new risks for young people, with many not knowing they’re taking fentanyl, or how deadly it can be.

Where is Fentanyl Being Found?

Counterfeit pills containing fentanyl are sold illicitly, sometimes even through social media apps. Both pills and fentanyl patches not prescribed for a particular patient have led to accidental or intentional poisonings.

Why Fentanyl is Extra Dangerous for Children

Higher Risk of Accidental Exposure: Children and infants naturally explore their surroundings, so anything left within reach could become a serious hazard.
Rapid Progression: Because of their smaller size and lack of tolerance, children can experience life-threatening symptoms from very small exposures.
Lack of Awareness: Children and young teens often don’t understand the danger or might not recognise fentanyl when they see it.

Fatal and Nonfatal Pediatric Fentanyl Poisoning Trends

A Deadly Surge

Deaths involving fentanyl in children have climbed at an unprecedented pace:

Between 2013 and 2021, paediatric deaths from fentanyl increased more than 30-fold.
Older teens (15-19 years) account for nine out of ten fatal cases, but children under five are also at heightened risk.

Studies show that 43.8% of these deaths happened at home, with the majority being unintentional.

Naloxone (Narcan) Saves Lives

Emergency responses to nonfatal fentanyl poisoning in children have increased, with naloxone (marketed as Narcan) saving lives—even in children as young as 15 months old. For parents, knowing how and when to use naloxone can be the difference between life and death.

Fentanyl Poisoning Children: What Parents and Caregivers Must Know

Sources of Exposure

Counterfeit Medications: Often sold online or by peers, these pills may look legitimate but are highly dangerous.
Leftover Medications or Patches: Prescribed fentanyl patches discarded carelessly or medications left within reach.
Paraphernalia and Bags: Even empty containers can carry enough fentanyl residue to harm a child.

Steps to Reduce the Risk

Secure All Medications: Keep all medicines, especially any containing opioids or fentanyl, locked away and out of sight.
Educate Teens: Talk about the risks of counterfeit pills and the dangers of using any drug that’s not from a pharmacy.
Dispose Safely: Never leave used drug patches, pill bottles, or baggies where children can find them. Use designated medication disposal services.
Know Emergency Steps: If you suspect a child has been exposed to fentanyl, call the poison centre (1-800-222-1222) or 999/112/911 immediately.