Health officials in Canada have been struggling with an uptick in purple heroin, aka purp.
The drug is a deadly cocktail of opiates that can cause overdose within minutes, and its presence is spreading up north. Many fear that the drug may cross the border and become a bigger problem in the US as well. Our heroin treatment center in Massachusetts explores the facts and dangers of purple heroin.
What Is Purple Heroin?
Purple heroin is an illegal drug that’s sold by dealers. The drug typically contains a mix of heroin, OxyContin, and carfentanil or fentanyl. 1 The last two ingredients are especially dangerous, as they are hundreds of times more potent than morphine and can cause a deadly overdose within minutes. Carfentanil is an opioid that’s 100 times stronger than fentanyl, while fentanyl is 100 times more powerful than morphine. Typically, carfentanil is used by veterinarians to treat elephants or other large animals.2
Drugs such as purple heroin are increasing overdose dangers. Get sober today with help from our drug detox center near Boston.
What Does Purple Heroin Overdose Look Like?
Someone who is overdosing on purple heroin will have some overdose symptoms that are similar to other opioid overdose situations. When someone is overdosing on purple heroin, they may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Blue nails or lips
- Confusion, lethargy
- Snoring or choking sounds
- Difficulty staying alert
- Weakened or absent breathing
As with other opioid overdoses, Narcan may help reverse the effects of an overdose. But because purp has such a strong mix of dangerous drugs, a person may need several doses of Narcan before they are revived. Always call 911 if you suspect someone is overdosing.
Is There Purple Heroin in the United States?
There are some news outlets reporting purple heroin in The States, but there are little to no reports on the increasing presence of the drug in Canada. New England’s proximity to Canada concerns many who are afraid that this deadly drug will become a problem in the future.
Treating Heroin Addiction
New drugs such as purp are showing how dangerous heroin is. The safest way to avoid purp, fentanyl, and other dangerous opiates is to get sober.
Call 888-280-4763 to learn how our New England drug and alcohol treatment program can help you or a loved one get and stay sober.
Sources:
- CBC – Dangerous 'purple heroin' has made its way to Montreal, police document says
- Community Drug Strategy – Drug Alert
