Fentanyl Slang Terms: A Cross-Country Overview

Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has been the topic of much conversation in recent years due to its prevalence in the illicit drug market and the significant dangers associated with its use. As the national conversation around the drug continues, understanding its many street names, or "fentanyl slang terms", can help in raising awareness about its pervasive presence and potentially saving lives.

The National Drug Early Warning System (NDEWS) recently conducted a survey across their Sentinel Sites to gather information about fentanyl slang terms. The findings show a range of terms being used across different states. This article highlights these findings, shedding light on what fentanyl is referred to and what it is sold as in various regions of the country.

The Common Names of Fentanyl

One of the most common slang terms for fentanyl, as revealed by the NDEWS Sentinel Site Directors, is 'Fetty'. In addition to this, some older terms previously used for heroin have now been adopted for fentanyl. These include terms like 'slow' (or 'slo'), 'down', and 'boi' (or 'boy').

Interestingly, the color of counterfeit fentanyl pills also contributes to the drug's naming. For instance, 'M30' pills are often referred to as 'blues', 'pinks', or 'yellows', depending on the color of the pill, and are sometimes called 'yerks'.

The Disguises of Fentanyl

The NDEWS survey also shed light on the various substances fentanyl is being mixed with and sold as. These include mixtures of heroin and fentanyl, fentanyl mixed with cocaine, and fentanyl combined with methamphetamine. While some dealers intentionally mix these substances, others accidentally cross-contaminate fentanyl with other drugs, leading to potentially dangerous consequences for users who may be unaware of what they are ingesting.

Region-Specific Fentanyl Slang Terms

The names and sales methods for fentanyl vary by region. For instance, in Duluth, MN, dealers and drug users often refer to fentanyl as a white powder version of heroin. Meanwhile, in Michigan, slang terms like 'Freddy' or 'Freddy Mercury' are commonly used to refer to fentanyl, and 'blues', 'pinks', 'roxies', 'M's', and '30s' are used to describe fentanyl disguised as M30 pills.

In Atlanta, GA, and Chicago, IL, most people still refer to fentanyl as 'heroin'. Florida, on the other hand, has seen a significant decrease in heroin usage compared to the previous year, with users primarily seeking fentanyl. In fact, many instances of death following the ingestion of 'M30' tablets (counterfeit pills that contain fentanyl) have been reported in the state.

Conclusion

Understanding fentanyl slang terms and the deceptive sales practices associated with this drug is crucial to addressing the national opioid crisis. Recognizing these terms can help individuals, families, healthcare providers, and law enforcement officers identify potential fentanyl use or abuse and respond appropriately.

Remember: awareness is a vital step in the fight against drug misuse. Stay informed and stay safe.