NEW YORK – An extremely dangerous drug has been identified in New York, prompting the State Department of Health to issue a public health alert. ’Super Mario’ is a combination of fentanyl, xylazine, and trace amounts of heroin and carfentanil – a potent drug considered to be up to 100 times stronger than fentanyl.
“Carfentenil is a veterinary drug that is no longer marketed because it is so dangerous,” State Health Commissioner Dr. Jame McDonald said.
ACR Health found the dangerous drug combination in the Central New York area on May 20. They were confirmed by a laboratory on June 6. The Department of Health said that the substance was reportedly linked to severe wounds needing emergency department care.
“While bags containing the dangerous mix were labeled ‘Super Mario,’ it’s important for individuals to take precaution with any unregulated substance, regardless of its label or packaging,” the Department of Health said in the alert.