The Top 5 drugs fueling the overdose crisis in Indianapolis

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health or substance abuse problems, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for help. Anyone grieving the loss of someone to overdose can text ‘mental’ to 317-435-5281 to get connected with mental health resources.

INDIANAPOLIS — Drugs are continuing their deadly grip on the Circle City, keeping overdose deaths at concerning levels.  

Illicit fentanyl is the driving force behind the crisis, carrying a fatal dose small enough to fit on the tip of a pencil.

Beyond fentanyl, other drugs remain a concern in overdose cases seen by the Marion County Coroner’s Office.  

Here are the top drugs seen in overdose deaths in the Indianapolis area:  

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Where are overdoses happening the most in Indianapolis?

Seven ZIP codes in Marion County were identified as “hot spots” for overdose, accounting for 46% of deaths so far this year.

What is fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Where to get fentanyl test strips

Overdose Lifeline offers to anonymously send fentanyl test strips to Indiana residents through its website. Those interested must fill out a form with their contact info.

Strips are also available 24/7 inside one of thousands of “NaloxBox” kits stationed throughout the state. Find a kit online at overdoselifeline.org/naloxone-indiana-distribution/.

Fentanyl overdose symptoms and side effects

Overdose causes someone to fall into a stupor state. Their pupil size may change, their skin may become clammy and their lips, nail beds and skin may turn blue. Someone who is overdosing may have respiratory failure that leads to death.

What does fentanyl look like?

Fentanyl is typically a powder or liquid. In recent years, the powder has become a common additive to heroin, methamphetamine or other street drugs, often without the user knowing.

Illicit fentanyl has also been pressed into fake pills to mimic drugs such as oxycodone or Adderall.

Where can I get Narcan?

Narcan, the common name brand for the opioid reversal agent naloxone, can be requested through Overdose Lifeline website. The supplies can be delivered anonymously.  

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Contact reporter Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com