While most everyone recognizes the life-threatening risk associated with opioid use, a problematic trend is on the rise. Gray Death- a lethal combination of heroin and synthetic opioids- is responsible for a new wave of deaths.
Let’s get into what you need to know- and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Is Gray Death?
Gray Death refers to the potent, fatal combination of synthetic opioids. The substance is often silver or gray, and it may resemble concrete mixing powder. Available in tablet or pill forms, it can be inhaled, injected, or consumed.
There isn’t a specific drug associated with Gray Death. Instead, it appears to be a combination of particularly dangerous synthetic opioids, including:
- Heroin.
- Fentanyl.
- Carfentanil.
- U-47700.
- 4-ANPP.
Additionally, Gray Death batches may also include stimulant and tranquilizer ingredients. In other words, the average individual doesn’t know what they’re getting when they use this drug. Therefore, even using it a single time can result in devastating consequences.
How Long Has Gray Death Been Around?
It’s unclear. Some reports show that Gray Death has likely been around since about 2016. However, it’s possible that it’s been circling for much longer.
The DEA first reported on Gray Death in 2017, citing it as a key factor in many fentanyl cocktails. They indicated its presence in multiple states, including Alabama, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. They also cited that Gray Death was so dangerous in powder form that even law enforcement personnel were advised to wear personal protective equipment when handling it.
One of the main problems is that every batch seemingly looks different from the next. Therefore, it’s incredibly hard to track the substance and identify its ingredients. One forensic chemist, Deneen Kilcrease, even stated, “To this date, I have no idea what makes it gray. Nothing in and of itself should be that color.
It’s clear that all the chemicals in Gray Death can be life-threatening on their own. Likewise, when mixed together, the risks skyrocket.
What Are the Main Gray Death Drug Effects?
Gray Death has gained significant traction in the media and public health discussions in recent years. Death remains the most dangerous and obvious consequence. One report found that 15 deaths in New Haven, Connecticut (within just a 24-hour timeframe) were associated with this drug combination.
Gray death overdose symptoms mimic other opioid overdose symptoms. Telltale signs include:
- Stopped or slowed breathing.
- Strange gurgling, snoring, or sounds of gasping for air.
- Cold or wet skin.
- Skin discoloration.
- Unresponsiveness or coma.
- Constricted or pinpointed pupils.
Always call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is overdosing. Time is urgent, so don’t delay or try to accurately assess the situation yourself.
Try to wake them up if possible, and turn them on their side. Then, if you have naloxone on hand, administer it. Finally, be sure to stay with the person until the paramedics arrive.
Can You Avoid Taking Laced Drugs?
Probably not. In many cases, it’s impossible to distinguish exactly what you’re using. While test strips can show if a drug contains fentanyl, they do not always detect other substances or more potent opioids
Unfortunately, many people are unknowingly taking extremely dangerous combinations. Unless you are taking an opioid prescribed directly by your doctor, all other use is generally considered unsafe.
It can be assumed that this tragic problem will likely continue to worsen. Illicit drug manufacturers seek to cut costs and extra work as much as possible. Subsequently, they will do what it takes to sell a product- even if it means putting their customers’ lives at risk.
While naloxone may help reverse opioid overdoses, it isn’t a foolproof method. Naloxone doesn’t work in all cases, and stronger drugs may not respond to its impact. Furthermore, if you overdose alone, you don’t have this option available to you.
Final Thoughts
It’s no secret that abusing opioids has a high potential for serious consequences, including death. Even if you intend to use responsibly, it’s nearly impossible to identify what you’re consuming when buying street drugs.
If you or someone you know struggles with opioid use, recovery is possible. With the right support and tools, you can turn your life around. Contact us today at (866) 578-7471to to learn more.
