Last Updated on August 27, 2025
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According to media reports and the Partnership for Safe Medicines, Texas is one of 40 states being flooded with fentanyl-laced pills.1 These pills are rapidly being distributed across the nation and are sold on the streets as painkillers and medications, although they are counterfeit.
Fentanyl is often used to treat severe pain, but as illegal drug manufacturers and dealers have combined it with other substances like ecstasy and opioids, fentanyl-related overdose deaths have become a major concern here in Texas and elsewhere.
The Scope of the Fentanyl Problem
Fentanyl Involvement in Overdose Deaths
In 2023, an estimated nearly 73,000 deaths involved synthetic opioids (primarily illegally manufactured fentanyl, or IMFs), representing about 69% of all drug overdose deaths .
Recent provisional data through early 2025 indicate a continued downward trend, with overdose deaths dropping approximately 26% year‑over‑year, with projections around 82,138 deaths for the 12 months ending January 2025
Carfentanil and Fentanyl Analogs
From January 2021 to June 2024, overdose fatalities involving IMFs remained high, accounting for 70–80% of overdose deaths in most regions, with the Western U.S. seeing an increase from 48.5% to 66.5% of deaths involving IMFs.
The presence of carfentanil—a fentanyl analog roughly 100× more potent—rose dramatically: from 29 deaths in early 2023 to 238 deaths during January–June 2024, spanning 37 states
Counterfeit Pills and Geographic Spread
The CDC reports that counterfeit pills—often pressed to look like oxycodone (e.g., M-30) or alprazolam—are increasingly involved in overdose cases, particularly in the Western U.S.
From mid‑2019 to late‑2021, deaths with evidence of counterfeit pill involvement rose from 2.0% to 4.7% overall—and in western jurisdictions tripled from 4.7% to 14.7% .
In 2022–2023, law enforcement seized around 115 million counterfeit pills, about half of all fentanyl seizures, with an estimated 60% containing potentially lethal doses of fentanyl
Texas-Specific Trends
Between 2019 and 2023, over 7,000 Texans died from synthetic opioid overdoses, many unaware they had consumed fentanyl .
Counterfeit pills are a critical source of fentanyl exposure in Texas, as seen in tragic cases such as a teenager overdosing on a Snapchat-purchased counterfeit pill .
While fentanyl test strips remain illegal in Texas, House Bill 1644—which passed the Texas House—would legalize test strips and align Texas with 45 other states already allowing them
Decline in Overdose Deaths and Harm Reduction Efforts
Overdose deaths in the U.S. fell by about 27% in 2024, largely driven by declines in synthetic opioid (fentanyl) fatalities and boosted by improved naloxone access and treatment availability .
Investments in harm reduction—such as over‑the‑counter naloxone, state opioid response funding, and public education campaigns—have contributed significantly to these declines
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Comprehensive Fentanyl Recovery and Treatment Options
At Nova Recovery Center, we understand the dangers of counterfeit pills and fentanyl exposure. Our programs provide structured pathways for fentanyl recovery, offering support from detox through long-term care. Whether you are experiencing withdrawal or seeking help for a loved one, our evidence-based approach ensures personalized care at every stage.
Our fentanyl addiction treatment center is designed to help clients manage withdrawal symptoms, address underlying mental health issues, and build skills for sustainable sobriety. By combining therapy, peer support, and holistic services, we offer a continuum of care that prepares individuals for long-term recovery.
Recognizing fentanyl addiction symptoms early—such as extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, confusion, or cravings—is critical for seeking help before an overdose occurs. Our medical and clinical teams are trained to provide safe detox and guide individuals through the recovery process.
For those ready to take the next step, our fentanyl rehab programs include residential treatment, outpatient services, and aftercare. These programs provide the tools, accountability, and community support necessary for lasting change.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fentanyl Addiction
What is the first step in fentanyl recovery?
The first step is typically a medically supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. At Nova Recovery Center, clients receive 24/7 medical support to reduce risks and prepare for the next phase of treatment.
How do I know if someone needs a fentanyl addiction treatment center?
If a loved one is showing signs such as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or repeated misuse of counterfeit pills, professional care is essential. A specialized fentanyl addiction treatment center provides both medical safety and therapeutic support.
What are common fentanyl addiction symptoms?
Symptoms include slowed breathing, drowsiness, confusion, nausea, and severe cravings. Recognizing these fentanyl addiction symptoms early can help prevent overdose and encourage timely treatment.
What happens in fentanyl rehab?
Fentanyl rehab includes multiple stages: detox, therapy, relapse prevention, and aftercare. Clients participate in individual and group therapy, develop coping strategies, and gain ongoing support to maintain sobriety.
Can long-term fentanyl recovery be successful?
Yes, with the right support system. Combining evidence-based care, holistic therapies, and structured aftercare significantly increases the likelihood of sustained recovery from fentanyl addiction.
