This article was originally published on November 5th, 2019, and has since been updated.
An internal law enforcement bulletin is circulating among agencies, warning of a dangerous trend: a lethal drug disguised as marijuana. This substance has been tested and found to contain fentanyl, Tramadol, heroin, and traces of meth.
Recovered addict Chris Ruflin warns, “I think a lot of death could come from this, especially among teenagers and the younger generation who may unknowingly consume this dangerous substance.”
This synthetic weed has been discovered in Ohio and Ontario, Canada, and is under investigation in Utah, where officials have yet to encounter it.
Sgt. Brandon Shearer from the Salt Lake City Police Department highlights the concern, stating, “When a substance emerges in the U.S., it’s likely to spread across the country.”
Not only is this dangerous for users who risk accidental overdoses, but also for law enforcement who may unknowingly handle the substance mistaking it for marijuana. Fentanyl, unlike weed, is lethal even through skin contact.
A Rise of Accidental Overdoses
The issue came to light after the substance was found in Ontario and Ohio, where two 18-year-old individuals experienced seizures and loss of consciousness. Police were able to reverse the effects just in time.
Authorities warn, “Opioids like fentanyl cannot be distinguished by sight, smell, or taste. Overdose can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or injection.”
Carfentanil, a potent fentanyl analog, has caused hundreds of deaths in Ohio and Florida due to its 10,000 times greater potency than morphine.
Another Fake Marijuana Product
Not only is fentanyl-laced cannabis a concern, but also other dangerous substances sold as synthetic cannabinoids. Illinois experienced severe cases of bleeding from rat poison-laced synthetic cannabis, resulting in deaths.
Synthetic cannabis, known as Spice and K2, is a cheap alternative to marijuana but carries severe health risks. The unpredictable blend of chemicals poses addiction risks and harmful withdrawal symptoms.
Authorities in Alabama recently alerted the public to the dangers of synthetic cannabis overdoses, emphasizing the life-threatening consequences of consuming such substances.
Protection Against Fake Marijuana
With the trend of drug legalization, the hope is that cannabis will be regulated to ensure safe consumption. Until then, it is advisable to steer clear of synthetic alternatives to weed, given the potential risks of contamination or counterfeit products.
Sgt. Brandon Shearer emphasizes, “You don’t know where it came from, you don’t know how it was made, and you’re really taking a huge personal safety risk by taking those substances.”
Sources
- References from various sources cited.
