Just when you think the U.S. Opioid Epidemic couldn’t get any worse, one of our states has apparently been invaded by pink elephants. Obviously, we aren’t referring to the balloon-like nightmare fuel that tormented the eponymous pachyderm of the famous Disney film Dumbo. Instead, we are referring to a new string of heroin that has leaked into St. Louis, Missouri, and is leaving a path of destruction in its wake. However, just like the namesake from Dumbo, these elephants are just as frightening (trust us). Let’s take a closer look at the rise of pink elephant heroin in St. Louis, Missouri.
Authorities on High Alert
So what exactly is “pink elephant heroin?” According to local officers, this deadly drug is a concoction of fentanyl and an extremely potent synthetic, creating a pink color. Aaron Laxton, program manager of the Missouri Network of Opioid Reform and Recovery, explains that many officials have been placed on high alert, but he also added that he first heard about this nasty drug on the streets. While spending time with about 101 subjects, Laxton learned about the infamous pink elephant heroin.
We Need More Ammunition
According to Laxton, this new variety of heroin is so deadly that emergency officials have to use more than the required amount of lifesaving drugs to rescue victims. Ultimately, street fentanyl will require one to two standard doses of Narcan to reverse overdoses, but pink elephant heroin requires a staggering 4 to 5 doses to prevent untimely death.
At this point, you are probably wondering where this monstrous drug came from. Laxton explains that the majority of this influx came from, of all places, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Apparently, due to the shipments of large containers in the city, dealers are stuffing this nasty heroin into these large shipping boxes. Despite the current danger, though, Laxton is confident that officials in St. Louis can clean up this mess before it leads to another crisis.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
