Lincoln Police issue warning regarding carfentanil dangers

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Lincoln Police Department on Friday alerted the community to the presence of carfentanil in eastern Nebraska and the potential for it to reach Lincoln.

Carfentanil is a highly synthetic opioid — about 10,000 times stronger than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl, according to LPD.

While the drug has not yet been detected locally, LPD said its actively monitoring the situation.

The Omaha Police Department has detected carfentanil in the form of M-30 blue pills, but it may also be in liquid or powder form.

According to LPD, carfentanil is legally used as a tranquilizing agent for large mammals and only two milligrams can be lethal to humans.

Even minimal exposure to the drug can lead to fatal overdoses.

“Carfentanil and other fentanyl analogues present a serious risk to public safety, first responder, medical, treatment and laboratory personnel,” the Drug Enforcement Administration said.

The public should exercise extreme caution and take the following action if exposed:

• Seek immediate medical attention – Call 911 right away
• Administer naloxone – The opioid overdose antidote can be used to reverse the effects of carfentanil. Multiple (6-8) doses may be required. Administer a dose every 2-3 minutes to counter the effects
• Monitor onset of symptoms – Stay with the person. Symptoms usually occur within minutes and include respiratory depression or arrest, drowsiness, disorientation, sedation, pinpoint pupils and clammy skin

LPD encourages the public to get free naloxone nasal spray at participating pharmacies without a prescription through Stop Overdose Nebraska.

To report suspicious activity, contact LPD at 402-441-6000 or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600.