NEW RIVER VALLEY, Va. – The New River Health District is dealing with a sharp increase in dangerous overdoses linked to a drug called “Purple Heroin.” This isn’t just any heroin; it’s mixed with powerful substances like carfentanil or fentanyl, and may also include xylazine, a sedative.
Recently, this alarming drug has been found in West Virginia and is spreading along U.S. 460 and I-77.
Chris Alderman from Rise Above, a local harm reduction service, reports the first overdose from Purple Heroin happened last week in Rich Creek, Giles County. Since then, it has reached Pulaski County.
According to Alderman, some samples tested have contained as many as 26 different substances. In the past week alone, there have been seven overdoses, with more expected.
This drug is especially affecting people in their 30s and 40s. It’s commonly injected but can also be snorted. The dangers are severe, including thoughts of self-harm, potential brain damage, and the risk of death.
For anyone who might encounter this drug, it’s vital to have Naloxone on hand and to never use alone. Alderman emphasizes the high risk of death with Purple Heroin. While they’ve seen fewer non-fatal overdoses thanks to harm reduction efforts, the issue remains significant.
Fortunately, no reported overdoses this year have resulted in fatalities. Rise Above is committed to helping those in need, whether it’s addiction support, access to Naloxone, or fentanyl testing strips.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or is using this dangerous substance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local health department or a harm reduction program.
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