New Deadly Opioid Drives Overdose Deaths, Admissions to Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in New Jersey

A new synthetic opioid stronger than heroin has found its way to New Jersey streets and is contributing to the statewide opioid epidemic, according to officials. The drug, called Pink, or U-47700 by chemists, is up to eight times stronger than heroin, and is available on the Internet for as low as $5. The DEA and state officials are saying Pink is driving drug overdose deaths, and increasing the need for opioid addiction treatments at drug and alcohol rehab centers in New Jersey.

If you’re addicted to heroin or opioids and live in New Jersey, get help for your addiction right away to lower your risk for an accidental overdose involving Pink. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 888-414-2380 to learn more about local drug rehab centers that can help you overcome substance abuse.

Exploring the Deadly Effects of Pink and Opioid Abuse

Overdose Deaths

Pink is cheap and easy to purchase online.

Angelo Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, says Pink is synthetically manufactured in China, and available in both powder and pill form. Valente says Pink is relatively low in cost at $5 per batch, and that most individuals who abuse the drug are largely unaware of the dangers associated with use. He adds that those who experiment with Pink just one time could suffer deadly consequences.

Since Pink is manufactured overseas, Valente says the drug most likely involves illicit activities, and that there are no controls in place surrounding its safety. He also says it’s impossible to determine which chemicals are being used to make the drugs, and whether the manufacturing process is being monitored by regulatory professionals. Since Pink is widely available online, many assume the drug is legal in the U.S. and being monitored, but Valente says this is not the case.

According to officials, the U.S. has seen at least 80 overdose deaths caused by Pink so far this year, but some say the death toll could be much higher since toxicology reports aren’t always available. Earlier this fall, the DEA classified Pink a Schedule I substance that is now banned nationwide.

The Importance of Overcoming Opioid Abuse

Prescription painkillers are the leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Individuals who become addicted to painkillers often turn to heroin when their opioid prescriptions run out, or when opioid addiction becomes too costly. In most cases, heroin is significantly cheaper than painkillers and other illicit substances.

Dealers who sell batches of heroin sometimes mix the drug with other synthetic opioids that are lower in cost and more easily accessible than heroin. These synthetic opioids, such as Pink, fentanyl, and carfentanil, are far more potent and deadly than heroin, and can lead to an overdose after just one use. Sometimes, users accidentally overdose thinking they’re using heroin, when they’re actually using heroin mixed with another opioid.

If you or someone you care about is suffering from heroin addiction, get help right away to avoid an accidental overdose, which can lead to coma or death. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 888-414-2380 for help with finding drug and alcohol rehab centers in New Jersey that can guide you or your loved one to improved health and sobriety.

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