READING THIS MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE:

CINCINNATI: 174 HEROIN OVERDOSES IN 6 DAYS

An alarming spike in the number of heroin overdoses has taken place in the last week. Many of us are aware of the heroin epidemic in this country and the toll it is taking on our society. In the last 2 weeks, however, we have witnessed an even more devastating increase in heroin overdoses. In Cincinnati, OH, for instance, there are usually 4 heroin overdoses a day, or 25 in a week. That statistic is staggering enough. In the last week, however, that number skyrocketed to 174 heroin overdoses in six days.

This trend is also showing up in other areas where heroin use is a large problem. West Virginia reported 27 overdoses in one 5 hour period on August 15. On August 24, Montgomery County KY reported 12 overdoses and Camden, NJ reported 29 heroin overdoses on the same day. These numbers are overwhelming even by today’s standards.

Why is this happening?

Two frightening new trends are the cause of this deadly epidemic. Carfentanil use is the main culprit. Carfentanil is a cousin of the opioid fentanyl that is used to tranquilize large animals like elephants. Combining this with heroin makes the supply last longer and provides a stronger high. It is also even more addictive than heroin alone. Therefore, although it causes more overdoses and deaths, the drug dealers know that those that survive the deadly cocktail will be back for their next dose even more quickly than before.

The weakened effectiveness of Narcan is the other reason for this grim upward trend in heroin overdoses. Narcan is the nasal inhaler used to reverse the side effects of heroin overdose. For some reason, Narcan is not working as well anymore. Nine doses may be needed when three doses were sufficient previously. This could be because of the new combination of drugs mixed with heroin is more than Narcan can handle. Thus, many who may have escaped the effects of heroin overdose before with Narcan are no longer as easily helped.

In conclusion, the heroin addiction crisis that was already dire has become much worse in the last few weeks. The deadly cocktail of opioids and heroin is more potent and addictive than ever. That, coupled with the ineffectiveness of Narcan makes for a deadly mixture. We urge you, please DO NOT DO HEROIN TODAY. Ask yourself, is that high worth your life? What would happen to your family? If you feel you need heroin to get through the day and want help, call us. We can help you get your life back. (800) 247-6111.

Resource:

Mettler, Kate. "‘This Is Unprecedented': 174 Heroin Overdoses in 6 Days in Cincinnati." Washington Post. The Washington Post, 29 Aug. 2016. Web. 29 Aug. 2016.