DEA Issues Alert on Counterfeit Pills Containing Fentanyl

The US Drug Enforcement Administration on Monday issued a Public Safety Alert regarding an “alarming increase in the lethality and availability” of counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine. It is the first Public Safety Alert issued by DEA in 6 years.

The administration said in a news release that such counterfeit pills have been seized in every state, with more than 9.5 million pills seized this year—more than the prior 2 years combined. The number of counterfeit pills containing at least 2 milligrams of fentanyl—a lethal dose—has dramatically increased. Lab analyses find that 2 out of every 5 fake pills with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said in a statement.

The counterfeit pills are designed to resemble legitimate prescription opioid medications, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam, and stimulants, including amphetamines. They often are sold on social media and e-commerce platforms.

DEA clarified that the alert does not apply to legitimate pharmaceutical medications prescribed by medical professionals and dispensed by licensed pharmacists.

“The legitimate prescription supply chain is not impacted,” DEA wrote in its release. “Anyone filling a prescription at a licensed pharmacy can be confident that the medications they receive are safe when taken as directed by a medical professional.”