Recent news reports have raised alarm about an increase in marijuana laced with the potentially deadly drug fentanyl.
This alarming trend has caught the attention of the public and health professionals alike. For instance, Dr. Michael Wenzinger from Washington has noticed an increase in cases where children mistakenly believe they have smoked marijuana when, in fact, they have ingested fentanyl. This issue is not limited to one location, as police departments in Alabama, Illinois, Louisiana, and New York have also reported discovering marijuana contaminated with fentanyl. In a recent incident in Tulsa, authorities arrested two individuals accused of trafficking fentanyl-laced marijuana.
The danger extends beyond smoking or ingesting fentanyl-laced marijuana. Disturbingly, Emily’s Hope reported that kids have even been hospitalized after using vapes that were contaminated with fentanyl. It is crucial to note that fentanyl is an incredibly potent drug, and even small amounts can be deadly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, cause more than 150 deaths every day due to overdoses. Tragically, many individuals unknowingly consume drugs laced with fentanyl, leading to these devastating outcomes.
In addition to the threat of fentanyl-laced marijuana, the potency of regular marijuana itself has been on the rise. A study published in the National Library of Medicine reveals that the level of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, has tripled between 1995 and 2014. Experts believe that this potency has increased even further today. This escalation in potency has raised concerns among health professionals, as it can contribute to a higher risk of marijuana addiction and potential health problems.
Furthermore, recent research has uncovered a link between excessive marijuana use and schizophrenia. Just a few days ago, Emily’s Hope shared information about this study, highlighting the potential consequences of prolonged and heavy marijuana consumption on mental health.
In light of these developments, it is essential for the public to be aware of the dangers associated with fentanyl-laced marijuana and the increased potency of regular marijuana.