The following is a press release issued by Mendocino County Public Health:
Over the last few years, we have seen several reports of overdoses linked to methamphetamine pills that have been laced with Fentanyl in Northern California.
Fentanyl is an opiate painkiller that is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, and can easily cause overdose when not under close doctor’s supervision. Fentanyl can take many forms, such as pill form, powder form and liquid form. In recent years, this drug has started to be misappropriated by non-patients.
“This drug is highly addictive, and a small dose can easily be fatal,” warns County Health Officer Dr. Andy Coren. “Even touching this substance can cause harm to ones’ health.”
Fentanyl can cause respiratory distress and death when taken in high doses, or when combined with other substances, especially alcohol.
Mendocino County Public Health and Mendocino County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS), Substance Use Disorders Treatment (SUDT), is united in the resolve to educate county residents on the dangers of substance use and disorder, and to help residents who need it.
“We want individuals who are struggling with substance use disorder to know that they are not alone, and we have a variety of resources available,” explains BHRS Director Dr. Jenine Miller. “Please call 707-472-2624 — if you need assistance, we have help waiting for you.”
If you suspect that you have ingested this substance, please reach out immediately to your local emergency room, or call 911. If you suspect that you have this dangerous substance in your possession, avoid all physical contact with the substance and please contact your local law enforcement.
