fentanyl

With spread of fentanyl, opioids kill record number of Black men in Birmingham

The number of opioid overdose deaths among Black men in Jefferson County has quadrupled since 2019, sparking action from residents and health experts.

Fentanyl is killing more young people in Alabama

The fentanyl epidemic has opened a new front for schools in the fight against illegal drugs. That’s changing how groups educate students and parents about opioids and harm reduction.

At Lovelady Center, women find hope after surviving fentanyl

Four women share stories of using and recovering from the deadly opioid fentanyl.

Families find support during a new wave of the opioid epidemic

The opioid epidemic continues to evolve. There's been a shift in overdose demographics and ways the drug is consumed. But what hasn’t changed is the strain that opioid addiction can have including on families.

Tougher penalties on fentanyl trafficking now law

Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law Thursday after the measure, which sets mandatory minimum sentences, passed both legislative chambers without opposition.

Bills tackling fentanyl trafficking and ‘good time’ limits in prisons advance

The bills would set a mandatory minimum sentence for trafficking or possessing fentanyl and reduce good time incentives, which can shorten prisoners’ sentences.

54% of support comes from members

Jefferson County drug overdose deaths hit new peak in 2022

Drug overdose deaths topped gun and vehicle-related deaths investigated last year by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.

Fentanyl Overdose Deaths Increase 100% In Jefferson County

The powerful synthetic opioid is now being mixed with drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine, leading to more overdose deaths.

UAB Partners with Facebook to Fight Online Drug Sales

Computer forensics researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently partnered with Facebook on an initiative that could ultimately curb drug sales and drug-seeking behavior on the platform.

Lawmakers Weigh Harsher Penalties for Opioid Users

The number of fatal drug overdoses is rising across the U.S. Alabama lawmakers this week considered a bill that would impose stiffer penalties around the deadly opioid fentanyl. Meanwhile, critics say more punishment could strain the state’s overcrowded prisons. Also, a bill on video voyeurism and the proposed education budget.