Fake Xanax Claims the Lives of Two Californian Men

Just south of San Jose, Calif., two men died after ingesting counterfeit Xanax pills. Those who have life-threatening addictions may turn to alternative sources to wrongfully purchase medications. Though drug rehab centers are ready to help, some addicts may feel helpless and depressed and resort to substance abuse.

Daniel Meehan, 22, was arrested on suspicion of producing and selling the fake Xanax medication that killed the two men. Santa Cruz County law enforcement reported Meehan was also charged with possession of an illegal assault weapon, marijuana sales and illegal marijuana cultivation. Meehan claimed he attempted to destroy the pills once their lethality was discovered; however, deputies found 10 pills after scouring the area.

Xanax — otherwise known as alprazolam — is a drug used to correct chemical unbalances in people who experience anxiety-related disorders. However, counterfeit production of such drugs can be extremely dangerous to their consumers — and may even require the lifesaving services of rehab centers.

Contra Costa Times reported, “Authorities said the drug looks nearly identical to genuine Xanax.” Yet Meehan’s fake drugs contained fentanyl — a cheaper and more potent opioid. Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeff Rosell said these counterfeit drugs are common in the area and San Jose residents have been exposed to their harmful effects.

A 19-year-old man who took the fake Xanax pill met his untimely death last October. Another unnamed man took the phony medication as well, but recovered after seeking help from a hospital. Meehan was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail and posted $50,000 bail.

Though charges have not been filed against Meehan, he is expected in court Nov. 19. Contra Costa Times also reported Rosell is unsure whether Meehan will be held accountable for the two deaths related to the counterfeit Xanax.

Purchasing substances from unreliable sources can be dangerous, even if the drugs look identical to real prescriptions. “Santa Cruz Coroner Stephany Fiore said the phony street Xanax has a duller texture and rougher edges than genuine Xanax,” but otherwise was indistinguishable from real Xanax, per the Contra Costa Times.

Fake drugs not only contribute to a dangerous addiction to drugs, they can also bring fatal consequences. Those who are addicted to these harmful substances from San Jose to the East Coast can seek the beneficial support of drug rehab centers.

It is important to report any suspicious medication to proper authorities. By eliminating counterfeit drugs, lives can be saved. Though addictions seem taller than a skyscraper in San Jose, individuals experiencing harsh addictions can find helpful resources from rehab centers.

Alex Kirkwood is a health writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Miramar Drug and Alcohol Reheb Centers. Follow on Twitter