Aspirus Shares Medication Safety Message
One Pill Can Kill
11/4/2025
Tyler Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
The danger is real
and growing. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), five
out of ten counterfeit pills seized in 2024 tested contained a potentially
deadly dose of fentanyl in the agency’s latest laboratory analysis. The
finding underscores how even one counterfeit pill can be life-threatening when
obtained outside of a trusted source.
That is the message
from Tyler Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident, who is helping spread awareness
through the national One Pill Can Kill
campaign.
“‘One pill can kill’
is a phrase that reminds people that any medication taken without the direct
supervision of a health care professional can lead to serious harm,” said Thao.
“The campaign was created to bring attention to counterfeit pills that often
contain dangerous substances like fentanyl.”
Fake or look-alike
pills are made to resemble legitimate prescriptions such as oxycodone
(OxyContin), alprazolam (Xanax), or amphetamine salts (Adderall), but may
contain lethal ingredients.
Thao emphasizes the
importance of staying alert to the risks of counterfeit medications and knowing
how to respond in an emergency. If someone appears unresponsive after taking an
unknown pill, call 911 immediately.
He also encourages
anyone who uses prescription pain medications, or cares for someone who does,
to keep naloxone (Narcan) nearby. The medication, available over the counter at
most pharmacies, can reverse an opioid overdose and save a life.
“It is always best
practice to have someone nearby who knows how to use naloxone,” Thao said.
“Medications should only be used as prescribed and approved by a qualified
health care professional.”
If you have
questions about medication safety or want to learn how to use naloxone, talk
with your Aspirus health care provider or pharmacist.
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