In Texas, there's a quiet but deadly crisis and it's centered around a drug called fentanyl. This synthetic opioid, originally made for managing intense pain in medical situations, has become the number one killer in the state’s ongoing battle with drug-related deaths.

According to an article from Texas Health and Human Services, Fentanyl is incredibly potent, estimated to be about 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Its strength is what makes it so dangerous. Did you know that even a tiny amount, just two milligrams, which looks like a few grains of salt, can be lethal? Unfortunately, its high potency also makes it a popular choice for drug traffickers. They'll mix it with other substances like heroin or cocaine to increase the potency even more,

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ONE PILL KILLS: THE MOST DANGEROUS ILLEGAL DRUG CHOICE IN TEXAS

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This drug doesn't discriminate and it affects people from all walks of life. There are many folks with fentanyl-related overdoses in Texas who are unaware that they are even consuming it, which has led to a significant increase in fatalities. Things are getting so severe that it prompted Texas health officials and law enforcement agencies to issue public warnings and increase their efforts to intercept drug trafficking operations.

Combatting this crisis includes stepping up public awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, improving access to treatment for addiction, and distributing naloxone - an antidote for opioid overdose - to first responders and the public. Despite all these efforts, the death numbers continue to rise.

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Now more than ever Texans must remain focused and stay informed. Education and awareness are key to preventing fentanyl-related tragedies. Everyone must understand the dangers associated with drug use, especially with substances as potent as fentanyl.

The fentanyl epidemic is one of the biggest public health challenges in Texas today. The best way to attack it is by working together to spread education and awareness about the drug, It takes effort from everyone to save lives and shape a safer future for all.

Top 10 States With The Biggest Drug Problems

In order to determine which states have the biggest drug problems, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia in three overall categories: 1) Drug Use & Addiction, 2) Law Enforcement, and 3) Drug Health Issues & Rehab.

Gallery Credit: Kyle Matthews