Health officials say a deadly tranquilizer known to cause accidental overdose is likely circulating in west Michigan.
The drug is carfentanil. It’s a synthetic, more potent version of fentanyl.
Carfentanil is used primarily as a tranquilizer for large animals. It's illicitly sold or mixed with heroin, sometimes unknown to the buyer.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services along with local and state law enforcement and health agencies issued a warning about the drug on Monday following a possible case in Kent County.
Officials say carfentanil is dangerous and can cause a fatal reaction within minutes of taking the drug, particularly if a user is unaware of the exposure.
It’s been linked to overdose-related deaths across the nation.
The Kent County Medical Examiner’s office also cited fentanyl and similar synthetic drugs as the cause of numerous deaths in a 2015 annual report.
Authorities urge those in public health or first responder roles to practice caution, especially when treating any unknown substance or chemical.
