The drug, U-47700, has resulted in the hospitalization of at least two North Texans, including one who is in an area Intensive Care Unit. U-47700 is a synthetic opioid that has been around since the 1970s but in recent months has gained popularity through Internet websites and forum discussions.
Overdose deaths have been reported in Europe and both Sweden and Finland have made U-47700 illegal.
Over the Internet the drug is usually sold as a powder or granules. Potential side effects, including overdose reactions, are similar to other opiates and include slow breathing and pinpoint pupils. Very high doses could lead to coma and eventually death.
In the U.S., advertisements for the drug can be found online with prices ranging from $65 to $200. U-47700 is reported to be 7.5 times more potent than morphine and health experts urge people to avoid this drug and any other recreational drug being sold online.
In an emergency, or if you have questions about a potential poisoning, call 1.800.222.1222.
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