Why Fentanyl is So Addictive and How Nova Transformations in Charlotte Can Help You Recover
Fentanyl has become one of the most dangerous drugs in America, driving unprecedented overdose deaths across North Carolina and the nation. Understanding why this synthetic opioid is so extraordinarily addictive—and knowing that effective treatment is available right here in Charlotte—can save lives.
At Nova Transformations, we witness firsthand the devastating impact of fentanyl addiction on individuals and families throughout the Charlotte metro area, including Mecklenburg County, Gastonia, Concord, and surrounding communities. This comprehensive guide explains the science behind fentanyl’s addictive power and how our evidence-based treatment programs in Charlotte, NC can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery.
Fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the United States in 2023—a 7.5% increase from 2022
The Fentanyl Crisis in Charlotte and North Carolina
The fentanyl epidemic has hit North Carolina particularly hard. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, opioid-related overdose deaths reached record levels in 2023, with fentanyl present in over 90% of these fatalities.
In Mecklenburg County specifically, emergency responders and hospitals in Charlotte are seeing alarming increases in fentanyl-related emergency room visits and overdoses. The drug has infiltrated the local drug supply, often mixed with other substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit prescription pills without users’ knowledge.
📍 Fentanyl’s Impact on Charlotte, NC
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department reports significant increases in fentanyl seizures
- Local hospitals like Atrium Health and Novant Health have expanded naloxone distribution programs
- Community organizations across Charlotte are working to increase awareness and harm reduction
- Treatment facilities like Nova Transformations are seeing more clients seeking help for fentanyl addiction
What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that was originally developed in 1959 as a potent pain medication for use in surgical settings and for managing severe chronic pain, particularly in cancer patients. Today, it’s classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Types of Fentanyl
Pharmaceutical Fentanyl (Legal)
- Duragesic (transdermal patches): Prescribed for chronic pain management
- Actiq (lozenges): Used for breakthrough cancer pain
- Sublimaze (injectable): Used in hospital settings for anesthesia
- Fentora (buccal tablets): For opioid-tolerant cancer patients
Illicit Fentanyl (Illegal)
- Powdered fentanyl: Often mixed with heroin or cocaine
- Counterfeit pills: Made to look like legitimate medications (Xanax, Percocet, OxyContin)
- Fentanyl analogs: Chemical variations like carfentanil (100x stronger than fentanyl)
- Pressed pills: Sold on the street, often with inconsistent and deadly dosages
⚠️ Critical Warning: Fentanyl Potency
Fentanyl is 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin. Just 2 milligrams (equivalent to a few grains of salt) can be lethal. This extreme potency makes fentanyl exceptionally dangerous, especially when users don’t know they’re consuming it.
Why Fentanyl is So Addictive: The Science Explained
Understanding the neuroscience behind fentanyl addiction helps explain why this drug creates such powerful dependency. Multiple factors work together to make fentanyl one of the most addictive substances known to medicine.
1. Extreme Potency and Rapid Binding to Opioid Receptors
Fentanyl’s molecular structure allows it to bind extremely quickly and strongly to mu-opioid receptors in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for pain perception, reward, and respiratory function. This rapid binding creates an almost immediate and intense euphoric effect—far more powerful than other opioids.
According to research published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, fentanyl has a significantly higher affinity for opioid receptors compared to morphine, meaning it attaches more readily and produces stronger effects at lower doses.
2. Massive Dopamine Flood
When fentanyl binds to opioid receptors, it triggers an enormous release of dopamine in the brain’s reward pathway (nucleus accumbens). This dopamine surge creates intense feelings of pleasure and euphoria that the brain “remembers” and desperately wants to repeat.
Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) shows that opioids like fentanyl can release 2-10 times more dopamine than natural rewards like food or sex, essentially hijacking the brain’s survival circuits.
3. Rapid Tolerance Development
Fentanyl causes tolerance to develop quickly—often within just a few uses. This means the brain rapidly adapts to the drug’s presence, requiring increasingly larger doses to achieve the same euphoric effect. This tolerance development is a key driver of addiction and significantly increases overdose risk.
4. Severe Physical Dependence
With repeated use, the brain and body become physically dependent on fentanyl to function normally. The body stops producing natural endorphins and adjusts its chemistry to accommodate the constant presence of the drug. When fentanyl use stops, severe withdrawal symptoms emerge, creating a powerful physical need to keep using.
5. Short Duration of Action
While fentanyl’s effects are intense, they’re also relatively short-lived (typically 30 minutes to 2 hours for illicit fentanyl). This short duration means users experience the “crash” more quickly, leading to more frequent dosing and deeper addiction patterns.
🧠 Brain Changes from Fentanyl Use
Chronic fentanyl use physically changes the brain’s structure and function:
- Reduced gray matter in regions controlling decision-making and behavior regulation
- Altered neurotransmitter systems affecting mood, motivation, and stress response
- Impaired cognitive function including memory, learning, and impulse control
- Dysregulated reward circuitry making natural pleasures feel unsatisfying
The good news: Many of these changes can improve significantly with sustained abstinence and treatment.
The Cycle of Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl addiction typically follows a progressive pattern that can develop rapidly—sometimes within days or weeks of initial use:
Stage 1: Initial Use
Many people are first exposed to fentanyl in one of these ways:
- Legitimate prescription for pain management after surgery or injury
- Experimenting with what they believe are other drugs (counterfeit pills)
- Progression from prescription opioid misuse or heroin use
- Using drugs contaminated with fentanyl unknowingly
Stage 2: Regular Use and Tolerance
As tolerance develops, users need more fentanyl more frequently to avoid withdrawal and maintain the desired effects. This stage is characterized by:
- Increasing dosage and frequency of use
- Beginning to prioritize drug use over other activities
- Early physical dependence symptoms
- Spending more time obtaining and using fentanyl
Stage 3: Dependence and Addiction
At this stage, fentanyl use has become compulsive. Key indicators include:
- Inability to stop despite wanting to quit
- Severe withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Using just to feel “normal” rather than to get high
- Neglecting work, school, and family responsibilities
- Continuing use despite serious health, legal, or social consequences
Stage 4: Crisis Point
Without intervention, fentanyl addiction reaches a critical stage involving:
- Overdose events or near-fatal overdoses
- Complete physical and psychological dependence
- Severe health deterioration
- Loss of housing, employment, or relationships
- Legal problems and incarceration
Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Addiction
Recognizing fentanyl addiction early can be life-saving. If you or someone you love in the Charlotte area is exhibiting these signs, it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately.
Physical Symptoms
- Drowsiness and sedation: Extreme tiredness, “nodding off” at inappropriate times
- Constricted pupils: Pinpoint pupils even in dim lighting (a hallmark sign)
- Respiratory depression: Slow, shallow breathing
- Confusion and disorientation: Difficulty thinking clearly or following conversations
- Slurred speech: Difficulty articulating words
- Poor coordination: Impaired motor skills and balance problems
- Nausea and vomiting: Digestive distress
- Constipation: Chronic digestive issues
- Weight loss: Significant unintentional weight loss
- Track marks or injection sites: For those injecting the drug
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms
- Taking larger amounts or using for longer than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or quit
- Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from fentanyl
- Cravings and obsessive thoughts about the drug
- Neglecting work, school, or family obligations
- Withdrawing from social activities and hobbies
- Risky behaviors while under the influence (driving, unsafe situations)
- Doctor shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions
- Financial problems and borrowing or stealing money
- Secretive behavior and lying about drug use
- Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety
- Depression and loss of motivation
Withdrawal Symptoms
Fentanyl withdrawal is extremely uncomfortable and begins within 12-30 hours of last use:
- Muscle aches and bone pain
- Severe anxiety and restlessness
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Excessive sweating and chills
- Rapid heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Dilated pupils and tearing
- Goosebumps (“cold turkey”)
- Intense drug cravings
Fentanyl vs. Other Opioids: Potency Comparison
| Opioid | Relative Potency | Overdose Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Morphine | 1x (baseline) | Moderate |
| Codeine | 0.1x | Low to Moderate |
| Oxycodone | 1.5x | Moderate to High |
| Heroin | 2-5x | High |
| Fentanyl | 50-100x | Extremely High |
| Carfentanil | 10,000x | Lethal with tiny amounts |
The Deadly Risks: Fentanyl Overdose
Fentanyl’s extreme potency makes overdose terrifyingly easy. The margin between a dose that produces the desired effect and a lethal dose is razor-thin.
Why Fentanyl Overdoses Are So Common
- Inconsistent dosing: Illicit fentanyl isn’t standardized; one pill or powder batch may contain wildly different amounts
- Unknown presence: Users often don’t know their drugs contain fentanyl
- Rapid onset: Fentanyl acts quickly, leaving little time to respond
- Tolerance variations: Even experienced users can misjudge potency
- Polydrug use: Combining fentanyl with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or stimulants dramatically increases risk
Signs of Fentanyl Overdose
🚨 MEDICAL EMERGENCY – Call 911 Immediately If You See These Signs:
- Unconsciousness or inability to wake the person
- Very slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Choking or gurgling sounds
- Limp body
- Pale, blue, or cold skin
- Pinpoint pupils
- Slow or erratic pulse
What to do:
- Call 911 immediately
- Administer naloxone (Narcan) if available – North Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law protects you
- Perform rescue breathing or CPR if trained
- Turn the person on their side to prevent choking
- Stay with them until help arrives
📍 Naloxone Access in Charlotte, NC
Naloxone (Narcan) is available at numerous locations throughout Charlotte and can reverse opioid overdoses:
- Most pharmacies in Charlotte (CVS, Walgreens, Harris Teeter) offer naloxone without a prescription
- Mecklenburg County Public Health provides free naloxone and training
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officers carry naloxone
- Local harm reduction organizations distribute free naloxone kits
- Nova Transformations can connect you with naloxone resources
Evidence-Based Fentanyl Addiction Treatment at Nova Transformations
Recovery from fentanyl addiction is absolutely possible with comprehensive, professional treatment. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, NC, we provide evidence-based substance abuse treatment specifically designed to address the unique challenges of opioid addiction.
Our Comprehensive Fentanyl Treatment Programs in Charlotte
1. Medical Detoxification Support
While Nova Transformations specializes in outpatient care, we coordinate with trusted medical detox facilities throughout North Carolina to ensure safe withdrawal management. Fentanyl withdrawal, while extremely uncomfortable, is rarely life-threatening when properly supervised.
Medical detox may include:
- 24/7 medical monitoring
- Comfort medications to ease withdrawal symptoms
- Nutritional support and hydration
- Sleep aids and anti-anxiety medications as needed
- Smooth transition to our outpatient programs
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT is the gold standard for opioid addiction treatment. Our Charlotte facility offers access to FDA-approved medications that significantly improve recovery outcomes:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone): Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing euphoria
- Methadone: Long-acting opioid agonist that stabilizes brain chemistry
- Naltrexone (Vivitrol): Blocks opioid receptors and reduces the rewarding effects of opioids
Research consistently shows that MAT combined with behavioral therapy produces the best outcomes for opioid addiction, with significantly lower relapse rates compared to abstinence-only approaches.
3. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our Intensive Outpatient Program in Charlotte provides structured, comprehensive treatment while allowing clients to maintain work, school, and family responsibilities. IOP typically includes:
- 9-12 hours of treatment per week (3-4 days)
- Individual therapy sessions focused on underlying issues and triggers
- Group therapy with peers in recovery
- Family therapy and education
- Medication management when appropriate
- Relapse prevention planning
- Life skills development
4. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
For clients needing more intensive support, our Partial Hospitalization Program in Charlotte offers a higher level of care:
- 20-30 hours of treatment per week (5-6 days)
- Daily therapeutic programming
- Medical oversight and monitoring
- Comprehensive psychiatric care
- Intensive individual and group therapy
- Return home each evening
5. Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Many individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction also experience co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Our dual diagnosis treatment in North Carolina addresses both conditions simultaneously for optimal outcomes.
✨ The Nova Transformations Difference
What sets our Charlotte treatment center apart:
- Evidence-based approaches: We use treatments proven effective by scientific research
- Individualized care plans: Every client receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs
- Experienced addiction specialists: Our team includes licensed therapists, counselors, and medical professionals
- Flexible scheduling: Treatment times that accommodate work and family obligations
- Comprehensive support: We address physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of recovery
- Aftercare planning: Continued support to prevent relapse after primary treatment
- Insurance accepted: We work with most major insurance providers
- Convenient Charlotte location: Easy access from throughout Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas
Therapeutic Approaches We Use for Fentanyl Addiction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most effective treatments for substance use disorders. This therapy helps clients:
- Identify triggers and high-risk situations
- Recognize and change negative thought patterns
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms
- Build problem-solving skills
- Create relapse prevention strategies
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is particularly effective for individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions and teaches:
- Mindfulness and present-moment awareness
- Emotion regulation techniques
- Distress tolerance skills
- Interpersonal effectiveness
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI helps strengthen intrinsic motivation for change by:
- Exploring ambivalence about recovery
- Building confidence in ability to change
- Enhancing commitment to treatment goals
- Resolving barriers to recovery
Trauma-Informed Care
Many people with substance use disorders have experienced trauma. Our trauma-informed approach:
- Creates a safe, supportive therapeutic environment
- Addresses underlying trauma contributing to addiction
- Uses evidence-based trauma therapies (EMDR, CPT)
- Prevents re-traumatization during treatment
Group Therapy and Peer Support
Recovery happens in community. Our group therapy sessions provide:
- Shared experiences and mutual understanding
- Accountability and support
- Learning from others’ recovery strategies
- Reduced isolation and stigma
- Building a sober support network
Family Therapy and Education
Addiction affects the entire family. Our family programs include:
- Education about addiction and recovery
- Communication skills development
- Boundary-setting guidance
- Healing relationships damaged by addiction
- Support for family members
What to Expect During Fentanyl Addiction Treatment
Initial Assessment and Intake
Your journey at Nova Transformations begins with a comprehensive assessment:
- Medical evaluation: Understanding your physical health and substance use history
- Psychological assessment: Identifying mental health conditions and treatment needs
- Social and environmental factors: Understanding your support system and life circumstances
- Treatment planning: Creating an individualized plan based on your unique needs
- Insurance verification: Confirming coverage and discussing financial arrangements
Active Treatment Phase
During your time in our Charlotte programs, you’ll participate in:
- Regular individual therapy sessions
- Group therapy and psychoeducation classes
- Medication management appointments (if using MAT)
- Family therapy sessions
- Skill-building workshops
- Holistic wellness activities
- Recovery planning and goal-setting
Continuing Care and Relapse Prevention
Recovery doesn’t end when primary treatment concludes. Our comprehensive aftercare includes:
- Step-down care: Transitioning from PHP to IOP to outpatient counseling
- Alumni programs: Ongoing support groups and activities
- Sober living referrals: Connections to quality recovery housing in Charlotte
- 12-step or alternative support groups: NA, AA, SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery
- Community resources: Linkage to employment, housing, and educational support
- Relapse prevention planning: Identifying warning signs and emergency protocols
How to Get Help for Fentanyl Addiction in Charlotte Today
If you or someone you love is struggling with fentanyl addiction in Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, or anywhere in the greater Mecklenburg County area, help is available now. Taking the first step toward recovery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
🔑 Key Takeaways: Your Path Forward
- Fentanyl addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing—it requires professional treatment
- Recovery is possible with evidence-based treatment and support
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) significantly improves outcomes for opioid addiction
- Professional help is essential—attempting to quit fentanyl alone is dangerous and rarely successful
- The sooner you get help, the better—fentanyl addiction is life-threatening
- Your insurance likely covers treatment—don’t let cost concerns prevent you from getting help
- Nova Transformations in Charlotte offers comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to your needs
Steps to Getting Started
- Call Nova Transformations: Reach our admissions team at (704) 961-9322—available 24/7
- Complete a confidential assessment: We’ll discuss your situation and recommend the appropriate level of care
- Verify insurance coverage: We’ll handle insurance verification and explain your benefits
- Begin treatment: Start your recovery journey with compassionate, expert support
📍 Serving the Entire Charlotte Metro Area
Nova Transformations is conveniently located to serve residents throughout:
- Charlotte, NC
- Mecklenburg County
- Concord and Cabarrus County
- Gastonia and Gaston County
- Matthews
- Huntersville
- Cornelius
- Davidson
- Pineville
- Mint Hill
- Kannapolis
- Monroe
- Rock Hill, SC (York County)
We also serve clients from across North Carolina, including Asheville, Durham, Raleigh, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Wilmington.
Take the First Step Toward Freedom from Fentanyl Addiction Today
Don’t wait another day living in the grip of fentanyl addiction. The compassionate, expert team at Nova Transformations in Charlotte is ready to help you reclaim your life.
We accept most major insurance plans. Unfortunately, we do not accept Medicare or Medicaid at this time.
Call (704) 961-9322 Now Contact Us OnlineConfidential support available 24/7. Your call could save your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl is extremely addictive due to its exceptional potency (50-100 times stronger than morphine), rapid action on brain opioid receptors, and its ability to create intense euphoria while quickly leading to physical dependence. The drug floods the brain’s reward system with massive amounts of dopamine, creating powerful cravings and withdrawal symptoms that make it extremely difficult to quit without professional help. Tolerance develops rapidly, often within just a few uses, requiring increasingly larger doses and driving the addiction cycle.
Fentanyl typically stays in the body for 24-72 hours, though detection times vary by test type: urine tests can detect fentanyl for 1-3 days, blood tests for approximately 12 hours, saliva tests for 1-4 days, and hair follicle tests for up to 90 days. Factors affecting elimination time include metabolism rate, dosage, frequency of use, body composition, age, and liver/kidney function. However, even after fentanyl leaves your system physically, psychological cravings and neurological changes can persist for much longer.
Warning signs of fentanyl addiction include: taking higher doses than prescribed or using without a prescription; experiencing intense cravings; withdrawal symptoms when not using (muscle aches, anxiety, sweating); neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities; isolating from loved ones; financial difficulties or stealing; doctor shopping for multiple prescriptions; risky behaviors while intoxicated; continued use despite negative health consequences; physical signs like constricted pupils, drowsiness, confusion, and slurred speech; and unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut down on use.
Yes, Nova Transformations provides comprehensive, evidence-based fentanyl addiction treatment in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our programs include Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with medications like Suboxone, individual and group therapy, dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions, family therapy, and comprehensive aftercare planning. We serve clients throughout the Charlotte metro area, Mecklenburg County, and across North Carolina. Call (704) 961-9322 for a free, confidential assessment.
Yes, recovery from fentanyl addiction is absolutely possible with professional treatment. While fentanyl is one of the most addictive substances, evidence-based approaches—particularly medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combined with behavioral therapy—have proven highly effective. Research shows that MAT with medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone) or methadone, combined with counseling and support services, significantly improves recovery outcomes and reduces relapse rates. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, we’ve helped countless individuals achieve long-term recovery from fentanyl addiction. With the right treatment, support, and commitment, you can reclaim your life from addiction.
Fentanyl is significantly more dangerous than other opioids due to its extreme potency. It’s 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin. Just 2 milligrams—an amount equivalent to a few grains of salt—can be lethal. This razor-thin margin between an effective dose and a deadly dose makes fentanyl exceptionally dangerous, especially when users don’t know their drugs contain it. According to the CDC, fentanyl is now the leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States, responsible for over 70,000 deaths in 2023 alone. The risk is further compounded by inconsistent dosing in illicitly manufactured fentanyl and the common practice of mixing it with other drugs.
Most private insurance plans cover fentanyl and opioid addiction treatment in North Carolina, including programs at Nova Transformations. Under the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to cover substance use disorder treatment at levels similar to other medical conditions. We work with many major insurance providers including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and others. While we don’t currently accept Medicare or Medicaid, our admissions team can verify your specific insurance benefits and discuss coverage details at no cost. Call (704) 961-9322 for a free insurance verification.
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the gold standard for opioid addiction treatment, combining FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. For fentanyl addiction, MAT typically involves medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, or naltrexone (Vivitrol). These medications work by reducing cravings, preventing withdrawal symptoms, blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, and normalizing brain chemistry without producing a “high.” Research consistently shows that MAT significantly improves treatment retention, reduces illicit opioid use, decreases overdose risk, and improves long-term recovery outcomes. Nova Transformations in Charlotte offers MAT as part of our comprehensive substance abuse treatment programs.
References and Resources
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2024). Fentanyl DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/fentanyl
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024). Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/index.html
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). (2024). Fentanyl Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. (2024). Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan Data Dashboard. Retrieved from https://www.ncdhhs.gov/opioid-and-substance-use-action-plan-data-dashboard
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2024). Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
- Volkow, N. D., & McLellan, A. T. (2016). Opioid Abuse in Chronic Pain—Misconceptions and Mitigation Strategies. New England Journal of Medicine, 374(13), 1253-1263.
- Ciccarone, D. (2019). The triple wave epidemic: Supply and demand drivers of the US opioid overdose crisis. International Journal of Drug Policy, 71, 183-188.
- Mattick, R. P., Breen, C., Kimber, J., & Davoli, M. (2014). Buprenorphine maintenance versus placebo or methadone maintenance for opioid dependence. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
- American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). (2020). National Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.
- Mecklenburg County Public Health Department. (2024). Overdose Prevention and Response Resources. Charlotte, NC.
Additional Charlotte-Area Resources:
- Mecklenburg County Public Health: https://www.mecknc.gov/HealthDepartment/
- North Carolina Harm Reduction Coalition: Free naloxone distribution
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Non-Emergency: (704) 336-7600
- Crisis Line (24/7): Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a medical emergency related to fentanyl use or overdose, call 911 immediately. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about substance use disorder treatment.
Last Updated: October 28, 2025 | Author: Nova Transformations Clinical Team | Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
