Health officials have confirmed the first carfentanil-related fatality in Riverside County following a months-long investigation into the March overdose death of a man in his 40s.
Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid originally developed to sedate large animals and is considered 100 times more potent than fentanyl and 10,000 times stronger than morphine. Even the slightest trace can prove fatal, making the drug extremely dangerous for human exposure.
While overdose deaths involving carfentanil have been increasing nationwide, Riverside County has seen a decline in overall opioid-related deaths this year, thanks in part to heightened public awareness and targeted prevention efforts.
Officials continue to distribute naloxone — a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses — throughout the community. It is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. Residents are also encouraged to use resources like Never Use Alone, a national program offering real-time support to individuals at risk of overdose.
