Particle.news
Download on the App Store
9 ARTICLES
·
11h ago

Baltimore Lab Identifies Novel Sedative in Fentanyl as Penn North Overdoses Persist

A federal lab’s discovery of a potent sedative in last week’s drug batch has spurred Baltimore’s expanded naloxone outreach after fresh overdose calls in Penn North.

Image
Image
BCFD paramedics checking on a person at North and Pennsylvania Avenues. He was later transported to an area hospital. Penn North saw a dramatic number of overdoses Thursday.
Image

Overview

  • NIST scientists found fentanyl mixed with acetaminophen, caffeine, mannitol, quinine and the benzodiazepine derivative N-methylclonazepam in samples linked to the July 10 mass overdose.
  • Baltimore Police arrested five people for possession with intent to distribute near the overdose scene but have not tied any suspect directly to the contaminated batch.
  • City overdose-response teams and community partners have handed out naloxone and fentanyl test strips and are providing peer support and treatment referrals in Penn North.
  • On July 18, four more residents overdosed in the same neighborhood, with two in serious condition, indicating the illicit supply remains dangerous.
  • Mayor Brandon Scott’s administration is refining a $400 million strategic opioid plan funded by pharmaceutical settlements following community listening sessions.