Connecticut Officials Warn the Public of Deadly Counterfeit Street Drugs

With the rise in overdoses in Connecticut, the state is now warning of counterfeit street drugs that can be potentially deadly.

According to Quinnipiack Valley Health District, accidental drug overdose is now the leading cause of death for Americans under 50.  Last year in Connecticut, there were 1,374 overdose deaths, which 85% involved the deadly drug fentanyl. Now those fighting the war on drugs and addition are warning those who purchase street drugs to beware of counterfeits that appear to look like the brand names.

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Drug trafficking authorities who monitor illegal activity throughout the state say that now counterfeit drugs make up a good majority of what they are confiscating.

Officials at Quinnipiack Valley Health District say the drugs now being sold may look like the brand name drugs, but they are actually the synthetic opioid fentanyl which is 50 to 100 times more potent then morphine. So even if the purchaser thinks it's a prescription medication, the chances are pretty good it's going to be counterfeit, and it's going to be deadly.

One New Milford family we met in 2020 lost their son to opioids and the family has now gotten legislation on the table in Hartford with a wide range of proposals that include more stringent laws and improved treatment guidelines.

Now, they are looking for your help and have started a "Click Submit Campaign," a way that you can help spread the word about this ongoing crisis and at the same time, let lawmakers know that you support the cause. The time has come to pass this legislation, and get the law going so that we can slow down the spread of this epidemic.

Just go to briancodyslaw.org, use the "Click to Submit" form to share your story, and send a message that the time has come for change. Even if you haven't been directly affected, it's a way to show your support for the cause. All submissions will also be directed right to Connecticut legislators who are the ones who can have the biggest impact -- there is strength in numbers.