Overdose spike linked to counterfeit pills

August 21, 2019 11:33 pm

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Overdoses are skyrocketing in multiple communities because of counterfeit pills.

“We haven’t seen anything like this before because of the counterfeit pills,” said Dr. James McDonald of the RI Dept. of Health. “This is definitely a spike for us.”

The health department says the state saw 44 non–fatal overdoses last week, thanks to pills that look like Percocet or an Oxycontin, but actually contain fentanyl.

One ounce of fentanyl can kill 15,000 people.

“One pill can kill,” McDonald said. “They’re that potent. And we do track the potency of these products over time. We’ve noticed the potency of fentanyl in these products is increasing over time, so it makes them a particularly dangerous product to use.”

There were overdoses in the area that includes Cranston, West Warwick, and Coventry, but the highest number occurred in Providence.

It’s a lot for first responders.

“It’s hard on our men and women that run to these, because you see a lot of young people that are potentially dying in front of you,” said Providence EMS Chief Zach Kenyon. “Luckily there have been no deaths from these overdoses, but the potential is always there.”

Officials say what can make the difference between life and death is Narcan.

“If you’re using, have a friend nearby who has Narcan available so it’s in the space you’re in,” McDonald said. “Because you don’t know what you’re taking, you don’t know what you’re using. Despite what your dealer told you, you do not know what you’re using.”

The health department recommends everyone in the state carry Narcan.

The agency also urges anyone struggling with substance abuse — or their loved ones — to call the BH Link Crisis Hotline at 401-414-LINK (5465), or go to the BH Link Walk-In Center located at 975 Waterman Avenue, East Providence.