Illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine and counterfeit prescription drugs (drugs that are made with false ingredients than how it’s marketed) are being laced with fentanyl, causing a spike in the number of overdoses and deaths. This also includes a number of mass overdose events across the U.S. where many of the victims thought they were ingesting cocaine and didn’t know it was actually fentanyl. Service members: remember to stay alert and avoid illegal substances. Only use medications that are prescribed to you by your health care provider and make sure you’re using them safely.

Nitazenes are a new synthetic form of opioids that are up to 20 times more powerful than fentanyl (that’s very strong). They’ve recently been found in illegal drugs, causing an increase in overdoses and deaths (overseas and in the states). While fentanyl is still one of the most misused opioids, nitazene is increasing in popularity because it’s stronger. Nitazenes also aren’t regulated, which means they are even more dangerous. Service members − stay alert and only use medications prescribed to you from your health care provider. It’s not worth the risk.

You might think driving under the influence just means driving after drinking alcohol. However, a recent study reported that more people are driving while under the influence of marijuana, opioids and other illicit drugs and it’s causing more deaths behind the wheel. Protect yourself and your career by not using prohibited drugs like marijuana, steering clear of illicit drugs and only using your prescription drugs as directed by your health care provider. Remember – you are responsible for your actions.