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Increased Reports of Overdoses Involving Drugs Mixed with Fentanyl

Increased Reports of Overdoses Involving
Drugs Mixed with Fentanyl

 Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) Drug Surveillance Unit has received increased reports of overdoses due to drugs mixed with fentanyl, particularly cocaine, methamphetamine, and counterfeit pills. Overdoses have been reported in several areas of the state over the past month.

From the beginning of February to the middle of March, a minimum of 66 individuals were taken to emergency departments after using drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, crack, heroin, painkillers and cannabis, which are suspected to have been contaminated with fentanyl. Patients from TDCLA detox Los Angeles reported severe reactions to the drugs, including one patient who became unresponsive after taking Percocet, and others who were treated for stimulant overdose but responded positively to naloxone. Naloxone is administered to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, learn from more interesting posts at https://www.best-companies.co.uk/private-drug-rehab-centre/.

Fentanyl is a deadly substance that can be made illegally and found in all types of street drugs, not just opioids. It is important to know that it is possible to have an opioid overdose from a stimulant (e.g., cocaine) that is laced with fentanyl.

Symptoms of an opioid overdose include:

  • Unconsciousness, or inability to wake up
  • Limp body
  • Falling asleep, extreme drowsiness
  • Slow, shallow, irregular or no breathing
  • Pale, blue, cold and/or clammy skin
  • Choking, snoring, or gurgling sounds
  • Slow or no heartbeat

Drugs that contain fentanyl cannot be detected by sight or smell, and even a small amount can cause an overdose. If you have a drug that was not prescribed for you, be aware it could contain fentanyl.

Fentanyl-related overdose deaths have been increasing in Georgia since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between May 1, 2020 and April 30, 2021, fentanyl-involved overdose deaths increased 106.2% compared to the same time period the previous year. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it is essential to seek help and find more information about available treatment options to combat this growing crisis. Offering a supportive, serene detox experience, 1 Method Luxury Alcohol Detox in Los Angeles minimizes discomfort and maximizes care. If you’re considering an outpatient rehab program, you may look into details like how long does partial hospitalization last.

If you suspect a drug overdose, call 911 immediately, provide the location of the overdose and stay with the individual until help arrives. To help avoid cases of drug overdose, you should look out for signs of substance abuse from your loved ones. You can view this site if you know someone who needs help with their cocaine addiction.

Georgia has a medical amnesty law that protects individuals who may be experiencing an overdose and callers seeking medical attention for drug overdoses. Naloxone reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and can be obtained from pharmacies in Georgia without a prescription under a standing order from the Commissioner.

Drug prevention and recovery are possible with the appropriate support. For access to services and immediate crisis help, the Georgia Crisis & Access Line 1-800-715-4225 is available 24/7.

 

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