Ensuring a secure supply of medications is crucial for maintaining public health, as there is a direct link between drug failures and health issues at both individual and population levels. The repercussions of using substandard or counterfeit drugs can have significant health consequences.
The prevalence of fake Mexican Xanax is a concerning issue observed in many local areas. According to a BBC report, counterfeit Xanax is contributing to the crisis of deaths related to anxiety medication. These fake Mexican Xanax pills often contain dangerous substances such as fentanyl and other synthetic opioids like U-4700. Fentanyl-laced pills are responsible for numerous overdose deaths, as they can produce intense highs. Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, exhibiting 50 to 100 times more potency than morphine.
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) recently published a report on illicit online pharmacies operating in the United States. The report identified over 1,500 new websites that the NABP does not recommend, and among these, approximately 31% were found to be offering illegal prescription drugs, including fentanyl.
In the vicinity of Fairfield, Franklin County, there has been a significant surge in overdose deaths, with an alarming 75% increase reported within a span of six months. The rise in these overdoses is directly associated with the presence of fentanyl, prompting urgent action from health officials and policymakers to address the situation. This resurgence of fentanyl-related deaths is occurring at a time when the opioid epidemic seemed to be slowing down in certain regions of the country.
Preliminary data from the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office indicates a continued rise in fentanyl-related deaths in the county, reflecting a national trend. However, determining the exact number of fatalities caused by illicit pills remains challenging.
How to Spot Fake Mexican Xanax Pill Vs Real
For consumers who may not have access to specialized testing equipment used by regulatory bodies, there are simple guidelines to help identify counterfeit Mexican Xanax bars or pills.
- Examine the Packaging: Start by checking the packaging for any signs of tampering or discrepancies. Look for unusual fonts, variations in print color, or a missing logo. Compare it to authentic packaging you have seen before to see if there are any noticeable differences.
- Assess the Seal: If the Mexican Xanax pill packet has a security seal, ensure that it is intact and undamaged. Look for any cracks or breaks in the sealing tape, as this may indicate tampering.
- Observe the Pill’s Characteristics: Pay attention to the physical appearance of the pill. Check for any differences in color, size, uniformity, consistency, and shape compared to authentic pills. Any notable variations may indicate a counterfeit product.
- Physical Attributes of tablet: According to the World Health Organization, there are several physical attributes to be mindful of when examining medicine tablets:
- Tablet Integrity: Look out for small pieces of tablets, excessive powder accumulation at the bottom of the medicine container, or capsules that appear brittle and crumbly, potentially leading to powder spillage.
- Cracks: Check for any visible cracks on the surface of tablets or capsules, as this could indicate compromised structural integrity.
- Crystal Formation: Take note of any crystal-like formations on the container walls or on the surface of the medicine tablets. Such appearances can be a red flag.
- Changes in Texture: Pay attention to any noticeable changes in the texture of the tablets or capsules, such as softening or hardening, which may suggest a potential issue.
- Abnormalities in Appearance: Watch for any swelling, spots, or discoloration on the tablets or capsules. These irregularities could be an indication of a problem.
- Allergies and Unexpected Side Effects of Mexican Xanax: Like most medications, Mexican Xanax may have side effects. It is crucial to consult your doctor before using it to identify and manage any potential allergies. If you experience any unexpected or harmful side effects from the medication, promptly inform your doctor.
- Price Considerations: If the price of Mexican Xanax suddenly seems significantly lower than usual, exercise caution and verify the product’s authenticity. Fake companies may attract customers by offering medicines at unusually low prices.
- Verification Methods: Many countries have established unique methods, such as authentication codes or online portals, to verify the authenticity of pills, including Mexican Xanax. Utilize these resources to confirm the legitimacy of the product before purchase.
- Fentanyl Testing: To determine whether your Mexican Xanax pill contains the dangerous fentanyl, consider using a simple fentanyl test strip. This can provide valuable insights and help ensure your safety.
Side Effects of Real Mexican Xanax
Common side effects of Xanax include:
- Drowsiness
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Memory problems
- Poor balance or coordination
- Slurred speech
- Trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Increased sweating
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Upset stomach
- Blurred vision
- Appetite or weight changes
- Swelling in your hands or feet
- Muscle weakness
- Dry mouth
- Stuffy nose
- Loss of interest in sex
Risks of Fake Mexican Xanax
The dangers associated with using counterfeit Xanax are similar to those of purchasing prescription medication illicitly. The exact composition and safety of fake Xanax are unknown, making it risky for consumption. Counterfeit Xanax is often laced with harmful substances that can result in serious side effects, and its potency increases the risk of overdose. Here are additional risks associated with using fake Xanax:
- Excessive Itching: Counterfeit Xanax may contain ingredients that cause intense itching. High doses of this medication can lead to skin swelling and infections due to scratching. These skin irritations can cause significant health problems, including pain and a higher likelihood of contracting diseases through open sores.
- Flushed Skin: After taking fake Xanax, you may experience skin flushing caused by the release of excessive histamine. This can make you appear pale and feel warm due to inadequate oxygen circulation. Taking excessive amounts of fake Xanax can trigger a reaction similar to an allergic response.
- Dry Mouth: Persistent thirst after taking Xanax may be due to artificial sweeteners used in place of sugar coatings in fake Xanax. Ingredients like dextrose and fructose found in counterfeit pills can cause dry mouth. This has negative consequences, as saliva plays a vital role in proper digestion, and lack of moisture can lead to discomfort and potential infections.
- Increased Infection Risk: If you are already susceptible to infections, using counterfeit Xanax poses a serious threat. Fake Xanax may contain toxic ingredients that irritate the digestive system, increasing vulnerability to illness when consumed regularly or for extended periods.
- Liver Damage: Counterfeit Xanax can cause lasting damage to the liver because it contains hazardous chemicals not meant for human consumption. Prolonged consumption of fake Xanax, often containing excessive amounts of acetaminophen, can result in liver damage and contribute to the development of other diseases.