Alexandria is warning residents that toxic marijuana laced with “unusual substances” has led to four recent overdoses in Prince William County.
“One person died, and the other three were revived with Narcan (naloxone), suggesting that the marijuana may have been mixed with opioids,” the city said in a release. “While use of any illegal drug is dangerous, City officials are urging residents to be especially cautious given these recent overdoses.”
There have been 10 fatal opioid overdoses in Alexandria this year, and 62 non-fatal overdoses as of August 25, according to the city.
Virginia decriminalized marijuana on July 1, and there is a civil fine of $25 for possessing up to an ounce.
The Alexandria Health Department offers Narcan for free by calling 703-746-4888, and the medication will be shipped for free for residents who contact the city’s opioid response coordinator at [email protected].
According to the city:
If you or someone you care about needs help with addiction, call 703.746.3636 (Virginia Relay 711), 24 hours a day. Individuals who do not live in Alexandria can find treatment options at samhsa.gov or by calling 800.662.HELP (4357).
If you have information regarding past overdoses, call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.4444.
For life-threatening situations, call or text 911 immediately.
For more information on the opioid crisis and how the City is responding, including a printable flyer on overdose symptoms and how to get help, visit alexandriava.gov/Opioids.
