CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in north-central Kansas have recently fielded several calls about illicit Fentanyl in Cloud County, according to a statement from Concordia Chief of Police and Cloud County Sheriff.
At this time law enforcement authorities believe it is circulating illegally within communities in Cloud County. "We would like to remind you that any illicit drug could be laced with Fentanyl. Typically it is found in counterfeit pills and homemade edibles among other illicit drugs."
"Any candies, edibles or pills not purchased directly from a store or pharmacy or not in its original packaging may have been tampered with."
"Fentanyl is often abused by addicts who obtain it on the street or illegally. Based on lab results, 2 out of 5 seized counterfeit pills contain lethal doses, which the Drug Enforcement Administration defines as being 2 mg of fentanyl."
"However, the different forms of lab-created fentanyl and its analogs, along with it being often combined with other illicit drugs, make it very difficult to determine a specific amount that would lead to death. Fentanyl also affects individuals differently, so what might be fatal for one person might not be for another."
"Any use of fentanyl is potentially deadly.People who use fentanyl can experience an overdose, which occurs when a drug causes severe and life-threatening symptoms."
"Typically, a fentanyl overdose will cause a person’s breathing to be impaired. When the brain does not get enough oxygen, one can go into a coma and suffer from brain damage. The effects of fentanyl on the brain also slow down the function of other major organs, including the heart, kidneys, and lungs, as well as a person’s motor function."
"Potent doses of fentanyl cause a user to experience several dangerous side effects beyond the initial euphoric feelings. When three symptoms are present at the same time, such as coma, small pupils, and difficulty breathing, overdose is very likely. Immediate medical care must be administered to keep that person from suffering from lasting complications and even death."
"If caught early enough and before it reaches the final life-threatening stage, fentanyl overdose can be treated. Naloxone is a medication that is effective against fentanyl and other opioids if given immediately."
"It binds to the opioid receptors in the brain, so that the effects of fentanyl are blocked. The solution can be injected with a needle. The brand names Narcan and Kloxxado are also naloxone but used as a nose spray. Because fentanyl is one of the most potent opioids, naloxone may have to be given multiple times to fully treat the overdose."
"If you suspect someone is overdosing on fentanyl, you can take the following actions:1. Call 911 immediately.2. Roll the person on their side in case they vomit to prevent choking.3. Monitor the person’s breathing and avoid giving any fluid.4. If the person is not breathing, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)."
"If you suspect illegal drug activity in your area please contact law enforcement."