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Fake Pills Are a Real Risk

They can look real. They can be deadly.

Fake prescription pills are often made with fentanyl and may look identical to legitimate medications such as Percocet, Xanax, OxyContin, or Adderall.
What Students Should Know
What Parents Should Know
Common Questions
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Key Facts

What to Know About Counterfeit Pills

  • They are sold online and through social media
  • They can be found in schools and communities
  • You cannot tell if a pill is fake by looking at it
  • Only medication prescribed to you and filled by a pharmacy is safe

FOR STUDENTS (Grades 6–12)

If You’re Feeling Anxious, Sad, Stressed, or Overwhelmed — Talk to Someone.

You deserve support, and help works.

If you see pills being sold or shared:

  • Don’t engage
  • Don’t take them
  • Tell a trusted adult immediately

FOR PARENTS & FAMILIES

Your Child Needs to Hear This From You —
Not Just the Internet.

Talk early, talk often, and keep your message calm and clear.

Best approach:

  • Focus on safety, not punishment
  • Encourage questions
  • Keep the door open for future conversations

Common Questions

How can you tell if a pill is fake?
You can’t. Fake pills are designed to look real. The only safe choice is medication from a doctor and a pharmacy.
Why is fentanyl in fake pills?
Because it’s cheaper and more profitable for illegal drug manufacturers.
Can test strips make pills safe?
Test strips exist, but they are not entirely reliable and do not detect every harmful substance. The safest choice is never taking a pill that wasn’t prescribed by a doctor and filled by a pharmacy.

Stay informed. Stay safe. Protect your future.

Take the Pledge