Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has been around since 1959 and has innumerable benefits when properly used as a painkiller as prescribed by a doctor. Because of its potency and fast-acting nature, it’s an invaluable tool for pain management, including quickly calming breakthrough cancer pain and helping people with chronic pain who don’t respond well to other opioids. But it’s become clear over the decades that fentanyl is a highly dangerous drug — one that can easily lead to addiction, health problems, and even death. Headlines about the rising number of opioid overdose deaths in the United States often point to a particular problem: Counterfeit forms of this medication are far too common. So, what are fentanyl-laced pills, and why exactly are they so widespread and deadly? Let’s explore what’s behind this national threat and explain the importance of receiving professional fentanyl addiction treatment in California.