In April 2017, Governor Chris Sununu of New Hampshire announced what authorities had been feared for months. After laboratory testing, they confirmed that the new deadly drug Carfentanil was already in New Hampshire. Three deaths were reported in March 2017 marking its first appearance in New England.
How Potent is Carfentanil?
Carfentanil is used as a general anesthetic for large animals. A few milligrams can bring down an elephant. It is 10,000 times more potent than morphine, 100 times more potent than fentanyl, and 4,000 times more potent than heroin. It is resistant to most medication used to treat drug overdoses. It is responsive to Naloxone, though multiple dosages are required.
Carfentanil is used to lace other drugs such as fentanyl and heroin. Abusers may be unaware that the substances have been laced with a potent and dangerous fentanyl derivative. According to Manchester Fire Chief Daniel Goonan, heroin addicts are scared of the presence of the drug in the streets.
Reports in New Hampshire
In 2016, after reports of seizures and deaths in Ohio, authorities in New England prepared for what appeared to be the inevitable. Law enforcement and response teams were on high alert for signs of the drug in the streets of New Hampshire.
It first appeared in New Hampshire in March 2017. Three deaths were reported, two 35 year old men, and one 48 year old man in Manchester. 26 overdoses were reported in Manchester in April resulting in 2 deaths. Police also arrested a man in possession of trace amounts of the drug.
The potency of the drug is not only a risk for addicts, but also for law enforcement and health workers. Grains of Carfentanil are enough to cause seizures when inhaled or when absorbed through the skin. Experts warn that caution should be taken when handling the substance, because even what appears to be trace amounts can be fatal.
The Safe Station Program
In Manchester New Hampshire, a new program to help addicts was started by Fire Chief Daniel Goonan. Anyone who needs help can simply walk into one of the fire stations in the city. Firefighters are trained to do an initial medical assessment for warning signs, they may call for help in case the addict needs medical assistance.
The safe station program has been quite successful in Manchester NH. In May alone, more than 100 people have sought help through this program. So far the safe station program has reported that more than 800 people have voluntarily sought help.
The good news is that the number of seizures and overdoses seems to have reduced. This is partly attributed to the Safe Station Program. Law enforcement has also increased surveillance and China recently banned the drug reducing quantities finding their way into the U.S. If you or someone you know has been arrested for drug possession and are facing criminal charges, you should speak with an experienced drug defense lawyer in NH.
By Kevin Tighe
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