NEW ORLEANS — Authorities in Louisiana are warning the public about a dangerous new form of fentanyl after a spike in emergency calls tied to the drug.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office says the substance, known as “green fentanyl,” ranges in color from light to dark green and has the texture of sidewalk chalk, gel, or tar. Officials say it can easily be mistaken for cannabis or other, less potent drugs.
Across the country, law enforcement agencies have issued similar alerts about fentanyl disguised in various forms — including “purple fentanyl” and versions resembling gumballs.
Deputies are urging everyone to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, which can include:
- Severe sleepiness or inability to wake up
- Slow or no breathing
- Snoring or gurgling sounds
- Cold, clammy skin
- Blue or gray lips and fingers
- Tiny pupils
If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available. The medication can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid roughly 50 times stronger than heroin. Officials say a lethal dose for most adults can be as small as two milligrams — about the size of two grains of salt.
