In Knoxville and across East Tennessee, the opioid crisis has been a public health emergency for years. But a newer, even more alarming trend is putting people at risk — even those who don’t think they’re using opioids at all. Increasingly, fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, is showing up in drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit prescription pills.
This hidden threat has changed the rules of drug use and overdose prevention. For many in our community, the danger now extends beyond traditional opioid users, catching people off guard and increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
What’s Happening in Knoxville
Local law enforcement, health departments, and recovery organizations are reporting a sharp increase in seizures of non-opioid drugs contaminated with fentanyl. In Knox County alone, toxicology reports have shown fentanyl in cases where the individual thought they were using only cocaine, meth, or legitimate prescription medication.
One major driver is counterfeit pills. Pressed to look like popular medications such as Xanax, Adderall, or oxycodone, these pills often contain unpredictable — and deadly — amounts of fentanyl. Even a tiny amount, smaller than a grain of salt, can cause a fatal overdose.
Why Dealers Are Mixing Fentanyl Into Non-Opioids
It might seem counterintuitive, but there are several reasons dealers mix fentanyl into other drugs:
- Cheaper production: Fentanyl is inexpensive to produce and transport, making it a cost-effective filler or additive.
- Addictive potential: Even in small doses, fentanyl can create dependence, keeping customers coming back.
- Cross-contamination: In some cases, fentanyl contamination happens accidentally when drugs are processed on shared equipment.
Regardless of intent, the outcome is the same — an unpredictable and dangerous drug supply in Knoxville.
Who’s at Risk?
The answer is simple: anyone who uses drugs purchased outside of a pharmacy. While opioid users remain at high risk, we’re now seeing overdoses among people who:
- Use cocaine recreationally, especially in social settings.
- Take pills they believe are legitimate prescriptions from friends or acquaintances.
- Use methamphetamine and think they’re avoiding opioids altogether.
This risk is particularly high among occasional or first-time users, who may have no tolerance for opioids and no knowledge of how to respond to an overdose.
Signs of Fentanyl Overdose
Fentanyl acts quickly, so knowing the warning signs is critical:
- Slow or no breathing
- Blue or gray lips and fingertips
- Pinpoint pupils
- Loss of consciousness or inability to wake the person
- Gurgling or choking sounds
If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if it’s available.
The Role of Naloxone in Prevention
Naloxone (brand name Narcan) is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose if administered in time. Because fentanyl can be present in non-opioid drugs, experts recommend that anyone who uses substances — or has friends or family who do — should carry naloxone.
In Knoxville, naloxone is available without a prescription at many pharmacies. Organizations like the Metro Drug Coalition also provide free naloxone training and kits.
Harm Reduction Steps for Our Community
While the ultimate goal is to help people enter treatment and achieve recovery, we can also take steps to reduce immediate risks:
- Never use alone. Overdoses happen quickly, and having someone nearby can save a life.
Test substances. Fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl before use. - Go slow. Even a small amount of a contaminated drug can be deadly.
- Carry naloxone. And make sure friends and family know how to use it.
- Educate others. Share accurate information about the risks in Knoxville.
Why Treatment Is Part of the Solution
For those struggling with substance use disorder, treatment is the most effective long-term strategy to reduce overdose risk. At Summit at Knoxville, we address both addiction and underlying mental health conditions through compassionate, evidence-based care.
Our programs combine medical support, therapy, and holistic approaches to help people not only stop using drugs but also rebuild their lives with new coping strategies, healthier relationships, and renewed purpose.
A Community Effort
The fentanyl crisis in non-opioid drugs is not just a law enforcement issue or a medical issue — it’s a community issue. Families, schools, healthcare providers, and neighbors all have a role to play in spreading awareness, encouraging testing, and supporting treatment.
By understanding the hidden risks and working together, Knoxville can take real steps to prevent overdose deaths and help more people find the path to recovery.If you or someone you love is at risk, Summit at Knoxville is here to help. Call us to speak with a caring professional who can guide you to safe, effective treatment.