Del. Officials Confirm First Recent Fentanyl-laced Heroin Death
NEW CASTLE, Del. (CBS) – Officials in Delaware say the state has experienced its first fentanyl-laced heroin death.
One case is confirmed and several more are thought probable cases attributed to the synthetic opioid.
Fentanyl is described as a synthetic painkiller and is sometimes mixed with heroin. It can cause overdoses because it may be 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
So far, the Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed one fentanyl-laced heroin overdose in Delaware. That death reportedly happened on April 5th in Claymont.
Several more cases are likely pending toxicology reports.
"For those Delawareans addicted to heroin, we must issue this warning that fentanyl-laced heroin is in our state," Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Rita Landgraf said in a release. "The unfortunate consequences of using this illicit drug too often can be fatal. If you or a loved one needs treatment, we can provide support. In New Castle County, call (800) 652-2929 or in Kent and Sussex counties, call (800) 345-6785."
Fentanyl-laced heroin has been sold on the streets with names such as "Thera Flu," "7 if Hearts," "China White," "Shine," "New World," "Bud Light," "Bud Ice," "Diesel" and "Coors Light."