The Dangers of Fentanyl Overdose in Riverside County

Signs of a Fentanyl Overdose

Recognizing the symptoms quickly is critical:

• Pinpoint pupils
  
• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
  
• Gurgling or snoring sounds (“death rattle”)
  
• Blue or gray lips, fingertips, or skin
  
• Cold, clammy skin
  
• Unresponsiveness — cannot be woken
  

If you see these signs, call 911 immediately. Seconds matter.

Local Impact: Overdose in Riverside County and California is On the Rise

California has been hit hard by fentanyl:

• In 2021, over 5,700 Californians died from fentanyl overdoses — a 20-fold increase from just a few years prior.
  
• In Riverside County, fentanyl was involved in over 540 deaths in 2022, making it the county’s leading cause of drug-related fatalities.
  
• Teens and young adults are especially at risk, often taking counterfeit pills purchased through social media.
  

In Murrieta and Temecula, first responders now carry naloxone to handle daily calls for suspected overdoses. Families often tell us they never thought it would happen “here,” but fentanyl does not discriminate. Learn more about how fentanyl is a major crisis in this area of California. 

Naloxone (Narcan): A Lifesaving Tool

Naloxone (Narcan) is a medication that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose by knocking fentanyl off brain receptors. It restores breathing within minutes.

• Available as a nasal spray or injection
  
• Now sold over the counter at most major pharmacies
  
• Safe to use, even if the person hasn’t taken opioids
  
• May require multiple doses in fentanyl overdoses due to potency
  

At Ranch Creek Recovery, we train clients and families on how to recognize overdose and administer naloxone. We also encourage families in Murrieta and Temecula to keep Narcan at home, in cars, and even in purses or backpacks. Find out more about how you can help a loved one struggling with fentanyl addiction.

How to Respond to a Suspected Overdose

1. Call 911 immediately. Tell them you suspect fentanyl.
   
2. Administer naloxone. Use nasal spray if available.
   
3. Begin rescue breathing or CPR. Continue until the person is breathing on their own or help arrives.
   
4. Stay with them. Overdose reversal is temporary; the person still needs emergency care.

Good Samaritan laws in California protect you from prosecution if you seek help during an overdose emergency.

The Role of Treatment After Overdose

Surviving an overdose is not the end of the story — it’s the beginning of a second chance. Many families in Riverside County come to Ranch Creek Recovery after their loved one’s first or second overdose. We provide:

• Medical detox to stabilize withdrawal safely 
  
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to reduce cravings and prevent relapse
  
• Holistic therapies like equine therapy, yoga, and amino acid therapy to rebuild physical and emotional health
  
• Family counseling to heal relationships and support long-term recovery
  

Recovery and Hope in Murrieta & Temecula

Fentanyl overdoses devastate families — but they are preventable. By learning the signs, carrying naloxone, and seeking treatment, you can save a life.

At Ranch Creek Recovery, we offer small-group, personalized care in a serene Murrieta setting. With only six clients at a time, we focus deeply on each individual’s healing journey. If you or someone you love has experienced an overdose, reach out today. Recovery is possible, and help is here.

Check out some success stories of clients who have overcome fentanyl addiction through Ranch Creek Recovery.