Carfentanil detected in Erie County drug supply

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Carfentanil, an opioid that can be up to 100 times more powerful than fentanyl, has been detected in local drug supplies, the Erie County Department of Health said Wednesday.

A local patient was found to have carfentanil in their system by lab tests. The opioid was also involved with an unrelated criminal case.

The drug is often added to cocaine, meth, and fentanyl as a cheap filler substance.

Even a small dose of carfentanil can cause immediate and severe reactions, such as overdose or death. The drug has been linked to multiple fatalities in the county since it was first connected with a local death in November 2023.

Here are some actions to take to stay safe when using:

• Use with a sober friend by your side

• Learn how to use Narcan, have it on hand

• Test with fentanyl test strips

• Wash hands thoroughly after coming in contact with unregulated drugs

Users can also go to neverusealone.com, a service that will connect you with someone who will call and repeatedly check up on you over the phone. An ambulance will be called if you become unresponsive.

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Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.

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