Last year, New York experienced a surge in drug overdose cases with over 3,000 reported deaths. Shockingly, 89% of these fatalities were attributed to fentanyl, a synthetic drug.
A new ultra-deadly synthetic drug hitting the streets has sparked renewed concern.
Carfentanil, a drug so potent that it can sedate an elephant, has been responsible for at least seven overdose deaths in the city this year. Even a minuscule amount of this drug is strong enough to be fatal to humans.
Bridget Brennan, the Special Narcotics Prosecutor, expresses concern about the possibility of a surge in the number.
In an interview with PIX11 News, she emphasized that the present street drug market is more perilous than ever before, cautioning that one might unwittingly purchase a substance that could prove deadly.
According to Brennan, Carfentanil, a powdery substance originating from China, makes its way into the illegal drug market via Mexico. She emphasized that undercover agents are intensifying their efforts to locate the source and individuals responsible for distributing it. Brennan expressed concern that, if left unchecked like fentanyl, overdose rates could skyrocket even further from their current record highs. She underscored the lethality of Carfentanil, stating that a minute quantity, a single grain, is enough to cause fatal consequences.
Carfentanil has been detected in all five boroughs, with Brooklyn being the location for the majority of drug seizures, including one in Bushwick.
Brennan stated that carfentanil was found in some of the seized bags, which had been mixed with various other drugs such as cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, all of which appear as white powder. She emphasized that the individuals using these drugs are not intentionally choosing carfentanil, as they are often unaware that the substance has been mixed into their drugs. Instead, the responsibility for this deadly addition lies with the sellers.
The city and state health departments have issued public health alerts due to the increase in overdose cases. They are alarmed by the emergence of a deadly new drug being added to already hazardous drugs. The public is being warned against using this drug to prevent further casualties.
The special prosecutor delivered a sobering statement, highlighting the alarming truth about Fentanyl and its counterpart, carfentanil. “Fentanyl may cause quick deaths, but carfentanil, which is 100 times more potent, can kill even quicker,” she warned.
Carfentanil is an extremely potent drug that presents a serious danger to first responders and law enforcement personnel who come into accidental contact with it. Those who use this drug may experience a range of adverse effects, including dizziness, clammy skin, and even heart failure. It is a highly dangerous substance that could result in the loss of life.
