DEA warns of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl from Mexico

The Drug Enforcement Administration is alerting the public that Mexican cartels are mass-producing counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl , for United States distribution.

Fentanyl is a dangerous synthetic opioid that is lethal in small doses. It, along with other powerful synthetic opioids are the core drivers behind the continuing opioid crisis.

This year, El Centro Border Patrol reported a 13,000 percent increase in fentanyl seizures, from . 3 pounds the previous fiscal year to 39 pounds .

In a test sample of tablets seized nationwide between January and March 2019, the DEA determined that 27 percent contained potential deadly doses of fentanyl .

Fentanyl is involved in more deaths than any other prohibited drug. A lethal dose of fentanyl is only about two milligrams, but varies by individual.

In San Diego, there have already been 92 fentanyl-related deaths so far in 2019.

” Drug dealers put fentanyl in heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and in that little blue pill you think is an Oxy 30, ” Said DEA agent Karen Flowers. ” It will take you down no matter your tax bracket or school district. ”

The DEA advises that If you or someone you know needs help to stop using drugs, call 211 and talk to someone or go to www.optumsandiego.com to get help to save a life; maybe your own. ”

The San Diego County Access and Crisis line and website are accessible at all times.