Understanding the Dangers and Effects of Fentanyl with the Missouri Narcotics Officers Association

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that continues to drive drug-related deaths across Missouri and the United States. At the Missouri Narcotics Officers Association, we are committed to educating law enforcement officers, public safety partners, and Missouri communities on the real dangers of fentanyl and the steps we can take together to combat this growing fentanyl crisis.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. While it is prescribed legally to treat severe pain, illegally manufactured fentanyl is often mixed into other street drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills without the user’s knowledge. This makes fentanyl especially dangerous and unpredictable.

The Dangerous Effects of Fentanyl

Even a tiny amount, just 2 milligrams, can be lethal to those who consume it, especially to individuals with low opioid tolerance.

Fentanyl affects the body by:

• Slowed Respiration and Heart Rate
• Extreme Drowsiness and Sedation
• Unconsciousness or Coma
• Potential Death within Minutes

Other signs and symptoms of a fentanyl overdose include pinpoint pupils, slowed or stopped breathing, cold and clammy skin, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect that someone may have overdosed on fentanyl, it’s crucial to notify emergency services and take quick action with naloxone (Narcan), an essential life saving aid that can save the life of an individual overdosing on fentanyl.

Fentanyl in Missouri: A Growing Public Safety Crisis

Missouri has experienced a sharp increase in overdose deaths related to synthetic opioids. Hotspots include urban centers such as Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia, but rural areas across the state are also increasingly affected. The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies, health departments, and community leaders to raise awareness, train officers, and provide resources that help mitigate the impact of fentanyl in our communities.

How MNOA Supports Missouri’s Fight Against Fentanyl

The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association is at the forefront of efforts to address fentanyl through:

Law Enforcement Training – We train Missouri’s law enforcement officers on fentanyl identification, safety procedures, and overdose response.
Community Education Initiatives – We take pride in educating the communities we protect. MNOA is here to provide helpful community resources, including public forums, school presentations, and resource distribution.

Partnerships with State & Local Agencies – The MNOA works closely with state and local law enforcement agencies, sharing data and aligning efforts.
Legislative Advocacy – It’s the mission of the MNAO to help create stronger drug trafficking penalties and improved public safety policies related the use and trafficking of fentanyl.

Our mission is to protect Missouri’s communities by empowering those on the frontlines with the tools and knowledge they need to safely combat the opioid epidemic.

What Can You Do to Help Fight Fentanyl in Missouri?

Whether you’re a law enforcement professional, parent, teacher, or concerned citizen, there are ways you can help:

• Know the signs of fentanyl use and overdose
• Talk to your children and community members about drug dangers
• Carry naloxone and learn how to use it
• Report suspicious drug activity to your local police or sheriff’s office
• Connect with MNOA for training opportunities and educational resources

Stay Informed. Stay Safe. Partner with MNOA.

Fentanyl continues to devastate families and communities across Missouri, but together, we can make a difference. The Missouri Narcotics Officers Association remains committed to leading the fight through education, collaboration, and action.

For more information, Upcoming Training, or to get involved

For more information, Contact the MNOA for guidance and support.