A recent street drug known as “Super Mario” has made its way to New York, containing a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
The state’s health department issued a public health alert on Friday after testing two samples from the “Super Mario” packets, which showed a mixture of fentanyl, xylazine (a veterinary sedative), and trace amounts of heroin and carfentanil – a tranquilizing drug used for large animals like elephants.
New York State Department of Health
Carfentanil, the synthetic opioid in “Super Mario,” is stated by the Drug Enforcement Administration to be 10,000 times stronger than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, just 2 milligrams of carfentanil can sedate an average-sized elephant while the same amount could be lethal for about 50 humans.
Unlike fentanyl, which has medical applications, carfentanil has no legitimate use and is extremely dangerous. New York officials have warned about its presence in the state.
The health department revealed that individuals using the “Super Mario” drug have experienced severe wounds requiring emergency care within weeks. The drug checking program reported changes in the substance’s composition and its potent effects.
The health department urged drug users to adopt harm reduction practices and be cautious due to the presence of xylazine in “Super Mario,” which can lead to fatal drug poisoning even with the availability of naloxone (Narcan).
Xylazine is a non-opioid veterinary drug known as “Tranq.” It can cause dangerous effects like slowed breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, along with skin issues and abscesses from repeated use.
In July 2023, the White House introduced a National Response Plan to address the rising issue of fentanyl mixed with xylazine, recognized as a significant threat. Studies have shown an increase in deaths involving this combination over recent years, prompting urgent action.
