Opioids: Street Names, Risks, and What They Look Like

📞 Archangel Centers offers opioid addiction treatment in New Jersey and can help you navigate your next steps. Call (888) 464-6182.

The opioid crisis has touched nearly every family in America, and for many loved ones, the signs aren’t always obvious. One of the most confusing parts is learning the coded language people use to refer to drugs—words like “blues,” “dope,” or “Roxy” that may sound innocent but carry serious meaning.

This guide breaks down common opioids, their street names, what they look like, and how to stay informed and prepared—especially if someone you love is at risk.

[Related: See Opioid Addiction Treatment Program in New Jersey]

Common Opioids and Their Street Names

Oxycodone

• Street Names: Blues, Percs, Roxy, Hillbilly Heroin, 30s, OCs, Oxys
• What It Looks Like: Often small, round blue tablets stamped with numbers like “M30”; may also come in white or off-white depending on brand
• Common Forms: Pills (pressed or pharmaceutical)

Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)

• Street Names: Vikes, Lorris, Tabs
• What It Looks Like: White or yellow pills, sometimes stamped with “V” or other identifiers
• Common Forms: Pills (may be crushed and snorted or taken orally)

Heroin

• Street Names: Dope, Smack, H, Brown, Tar
• What It Looks Like: Powder (white or brown) or sticky black tar
• Common Forms: Powder for injection or snorting, tar for smoking or injection

Fentanyl

• Street Names: Fent, Fetty, Apache, China White, TNT
• What It Looks Like: Can appear as powder, pills, or blotter-like paper; often sold as fake oxycodone (“pressed blues”)
• Common Forms: Mixed into counterfeit pills or powders—extremely dangerous in microdoses

Dilaudid (Hydromorphone)

• Street Names: D, Dillies, Footballs
• What It Looks Like: Small tablets or injectable solution
• Common Forms: Oral tablets, liquid for injection

Codeine & Morphine

• Street Names: Schoolboy, M, Miss Emma, Syrup, Purple Drank
• What It Looks Like: Pills, capsules, or cough syrup
• Common Forms: Oral or injected; cough syrup mixed with soda in some communities

Why Street Names Matter

People often use slang to hide what they’re really taking—from parents, partners, even themselves. If someone you care about starts referencing unfamiliar terms, take notice. A sudden mention of “30s,” “blues,” or “dope” could be a red flag.

Knowing the language can help you spot early warning signs and start difficult conversations sooner.

What to Do If You Suspect Opioid Use

• Stay calm and observant—note any changes in behavior, sleeping patterns, or energy levels
• Look for physical signs: pinpoint pupils, nodding off, missing medications, or paraphernalia (foil, straws, baggies, burnt spoons)
• Create space for open dialogue—don’t accuse, ask
• Reach out to a professional treatment center for guidance

📞 Archangel Centers offers opioid addiction treatment in New Jersey and can help you navigate your next steps. Call (888) 464-6182.

Signs of an Opioid Overdose—and What to Do

Signs:

• Unconscious or won’t wake up
• Slow, shallow, or no breathing
• Pale, clammy skin
• Blue lips or fingertips
• Gurgling or choking sounds

What to Do:

1. Call 911 immediately
2. Administer Narcan (naloxone) if available
3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing
4. Lay them on their side to prevent choking
5. Stay until help arrives

If you live with or care for someone at risk of opioid overdose, keep Narcan on hand and know how to use it. It can save a life.

Knowledge is power—and in the case of opioids, it can also be protection.

For more support, information, or help finding treatment, contact Archangel Centers.