NOBLESVILLE, Ind. (WISH) — A spike in overdoses in Hamilton County is tied to “KD,” a synthetic drug made from spraying pesticides on marijuana or tobacco, and the County Coroner is warning you not to touch the fatal drug.
Strong pesticides like Raid are being sprayed onto drugs, then ingested. The high concentrations of pyrethroid-based pesticides lead to serious effects. KD’s toxic, “zombie-like” symptoms can be fatal, the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office (HCCO) said in the press release.
“This is an incredibly dangerous practice,” Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison said. “The pyrethroids in bug sprays are not meant for human consumption, and when inhaled, they can lead to catastrophic health effects.”
KD symptoms include:
- Trouble walking, speaking, or breathing properly.
- Catatonic states or unresponsiveness.
- Muscle rigidity and disorientation.
- Risk of overdose and death, even with small doses.
If you or someone you know is showing KD symptoms, call 911 immediately.
The ease of access to the pesticides makes the KD outbreak unpredictable, HCCO said. Parents are urged to speak to their children about the dangers of KD.
HCCO and other public health officials in Hamilton County will work with police to monitor KD overdoses.
