Omaha Police warn about Narcan-adverse ‘purple’ fentanyl

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Omaha Police have issued a warning about a new sort of drug mixture that can’t be reversed by Narcan.

In a recent joint operation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, the OPD Narcotics Unit seized a substance that turned out to be fentanyl mixed with lidocaine, according to an OPD news release issued Tuesday morning. Law enforcement refer to the mixture as “purple” fentanyl.

“While lidocaine has previously been used as a cutting agent in illicit drugs, this is the first time Omaha detectives have encountered fentanyl combined with lidocaine in the metro area,” the OPD release states.

Police say lidocaine, which is an anesthetic, intensifies the side effects of fentanyl. Because it is not an opioid, however, its effects cannot be reversed by Narcan.

Law enforcement believe the mixture found in the Omaha-metro is originating from the Kansas City area. U.S. Border Patrol has reported encountering the substance in two border crossings last July.

“Under Nebraska’s Good Samaritan Law, individuals who seek help for someone suffering a drug overdose are protected from certain drug-related charges, encouraging people to call for assistance without fear of prosecution,” the OPD release states.

Police are encouraging anyone with information about illegal drug use or distribution in Omaha to community is encouraged to contact OPD at 402-444-4877. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Omaha Crime Stoppers at 402-444-STOP or through the P3 Tips mobile app.

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