(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The leading poison control expert in Illinois cites a rise in the use of fake prescription pills and illegal drugs that are laced with fentanyl.
The warning comes as some people may be tempted to try recreational drugs or what they think are genuine prescription pills during summer recreational events. But fake drug makers are mixing fentanyl into these substances, authorities said.
“For people who are not regular opioid users, the amounts in these pills or another adulterated drug are enough to cause an overdose and even death,” Illinois Poison Center Medical Director Michael Wahl, M.D.
Last month, state health officials reported multiple fatal and non-fatal overdose clusters in several Northern Illinois counties related to heroin, cocaine and fentanyl.
People are urged to call 9-1-1 if someone is having an overdose. An Illinois “Good Samaritan Law” allows individuals to seek emergency medical help without risking criminal liability for drug possession.
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