Illicit drug use has been on the rise for the past two decades, posing a serious public health threat. The number of drug overdose deaths in the US has surged from around 17,000 in 1999 to over 70,000 in 2017 [1]. The primary culprit behind this increase is the proliferation of Synthetic Narcotics like fentanyl, with deaths reaching almost 28.5 million in 2017 [1].
A new and highly dangerous drug known as “Gray Death” has emerged, so potent that even touching it can be deadly.
Gray Death: A Deadly Combination
Gray Death is a mix of powerful drugs, 100 times stronger than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine [2,3]. Its composition varies, including heroin, fentanyl, U-47700, carfentanil, or other potent opioids. The drug can resemble concrete mix but ranges from chunky material to fine powder.
David Spencer from the St. Mary’s Parish Sheriff’s Office warns the public to recognize the substance by its concrete-like appearance.
“Be aware of the color. It looks like chunks of concrete.” [4]
Gray Death can be consumed in various ways – injected, swallowed, snorted, or smoked [4].
The Danger of Gray Death
This synthetic drug has caused several overdose deaths in the US due to its potency and variable composition. The mix of lethal opioids makes it extremely dangerous, as even small amounts go undetected in tests.
Chemists working with these drugs emphasize the high risks involved due to the substances’ potency and lethal nature.
“A lethal dose is not even visible to the eye.” [5]
Effects of Gray Death
Opioid users seek euphoria but face dangerous side effects like shallow breathing, pinpoint pupils, nausea, dizziness, lethargy, and potential heart failure [3].
Reversing Gray Death Effects
Treating Gray Death overdose is challenging due to its unknown composition. Naloxone may help, but the cocktail of drugs in Gray Death can resist its effects [2,6].
Gray Death Spread
Initially reported in Georgia, Gray Death has reached several states, including Alabama, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana [5,7].
Officials’ Warning
Officials caution the public to avoid Gray Death as the drug is hazardous even to touch, highlighting the critical need for public safety awareness. If encountered, do not handle the drug but report it immediately.
