TBI issues drug alert on cocaine laced with fentanyl

NASHVILLE (WDEF) – TBI issues a public alert on a dangerous drug that is increasing in middle and east Tennessee.

The drug is fentanyl.

Tennessee already has a problem with counterfeit opiods.

But for the first time, TBI labs are finding cocaine laced with fentanyl.

Cocaine dealers use it to cut their products, and double their money.

But the mix is extremely dangerous.

A TBI official said taking the concoction is a 50-50 proposition with death.

“For some time now, we’ve warned about the dangers surrounding fentanyl for those struggling with opioid or prescription drug addiction,” said T.J. Jordan, Assistant Director of the TBI’s Drug Investigation Division.

“This submission, however, changes the game. It proves the serious risk now also applies to recreational drugs beyond opioids. To be blunt: What you might buy and use, thinking it’s a good time, could cost you your life.”

Fentanyl can be 50 to 100 times as potent as morphine.

And you don’t have to take it to overdose.

Just touching it is a danger, since it can absorb through the skin.

If you need helping beating a drug issue, there are resources to help.

Make a brave phone call to the Tennessee REDLINE: 1-800-889-9789

— Josh DeVine (@TBIJoshDeVine) October 20, 2017