Most Virginians understand how serious the fentanyl crisis is, and many have lost loved ones to a fentanyl overdose. Virginia residents, however, may not know that fentanyl overdoses are not always fatal. It’s possible to survive an overdose with the correct emergency care if it is administered quickly. Unfortunately, people may be reluctant to seek help before or during an overdose.
Removing stigmas around substance use disorders and fentanyl can help save lives. If you or someone you know needs the services of a fentanyl recovery center in VA, don’t give up. Fentanyl addiction is a serious threat to life and health, but recovery is possible with the right support, like the team at Sobrius.
Signs and symptoms of fentanyl overdose
The signs of a fentanyl overdose can be different from those that occur with other types of drugs. The term “overdose” doesn’t only refer to someone with an opioid use disorder taking too large a dose. People who unknowingly ingest fentanyl that has been added to other drugs can also overdose.
Overdose warning signs include:
- Loss of consciousness and falling asleep
- Fingernails or lips appear blue or purplish (cyanosis)
- Skin is clammy and cold
- Limp body or extreme weakness in the limbs
- Choking or struggling to breathe
- Slowed or decreased breathing
- Pinpoint pupils
If you suspect someone has overdosed on fentanyl or any other substances, call 911 immediately. Stay with the person until medical help arrives.
What is the fentanyl law in Virginia?
Under the Code of Virginia, fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance.1 If you are found to be holding or selling a Schedule II substance, you may be arrested for drug possession, sale, distribution, or manufacturing.
Some people might ask, “What is the fentanyl law in Virginia?” This doesn’t mean they are experimenting with opioids. It can simply mean they want to be better informed.
What is the overdose law in Virginia?
The efforts to reduce fatalities from fentanyl overdose in Virginia have been successful thanks to advances like the Virginia overdose law. According to Code of Virginia § 18.2-251.03(B)(1)-(3), if a person seeks emergency medical care for themselves or someone else because of an alcohol- or drug-related overdose, they may be protected from legal action regarding any intoxication or possession crimes.2
What is the overdose law in Virginia based on? The protection offered by the law is referred to as an “affirmative defense.” To be eligible for this protection, the reporting person must be willing to identify themselves as the one who called for emergency assistance. The law is designed to help reduce the risk of fatal overdoses by removing the fear of certain legal repercussions.
The Virginia Department of Health also oversees the distribution of no-cost naloxone (Narcan) to several different agencies.3 Naloxone rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose and is safe to use even if a person has not taken opioids. It is easy to use and requires no training to administer.
Organizations that distribute naloxone to citizens include public universities, local health departments, and other community partners. You can also order naloxone online.
Get help at a fentanyl recovery center in VA at Sobrius
When asked the question, “Which state has the highest overdose rate?” some people mistakenly answer, “Virginia.” However, West Virginia is the state with the highest rate of overdoses.4 Regardless of which state has the highest overdose rate, what matters is that people living with addiction to this dangerous substance get the treatment they need.
Fentanyl is highly potent. It only takes a small amount to cause a fatal overdose. If you’re concerned that you have developed a fentanyl addiction, don’t wait to get help. Call Sobrius today at 888.596.6514 or complete our online contact form to learn about our fentanyl recovery center in VA.
Source:
1. Code of Virginia. Accessed 5/9/2025
2. Virginia Rules Topics: Drugs – Overview. Accessed 5/9/2025
3. Virginia Department of Health