Harris County Leads State in Fentanyl Deaths in 2023, Data Shows
Before fentanyl’s rise, overdose deaths were more limited to opioid and heroin users, fellow Katharine Neill Harris explains. But now, the risk has broadened to non-regular drug users, like someone trying cocaine for the first time or buying counterfeit drugs.
Motivated by Grieving Parents, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn Has Made Fentanyl Crisis a Priority
Sen. John Cornyn has made the fentanyl crisis a priority, pushing policies to crack down on supply. But such policies have a limited impact on drug abuse and divert resources from preventive programs and treatment, says fellow Katharine Neill Harris.
Stigma Around Drug Known For Zombie-Like Effects Makes it Hard to Treat
Stigma around Xylazine stops people from seeking help, fellow Katharine Neill Harris explained. Health care providers at all levels need to be aware of the problem so “people don’t feel so ashamed that they kind of hide and don’t get the help that they need.”
States Stiffen Penalties for Fentanyl, Despite Public Health Concerns
Increasing criminal penalties for fentanyl won't solve the problem of overdose, fellow Katharine Neill Harris says. “It doesn’t address the issue because it doesn’t address demand, and as long as there is a demand for the drug, there will be a supply for it.”
Fentanyl is Dominating Deadlines, but There’s a More Comprehensive Drug Problem
In terms of the ongoing addiction crisis, fentanyl — the drug and its supply — continues to be the most dangerous, Drug Policy fellow Katharine Neill Harris said. “But I don’t think it’s necessarily the last drug crime crisis that we are going to face.”