Inside the Overdose Crisis: A Conversation with Agent Ed Byrne and the Overdose Team
The problem that fentanyl really poses is that it does not carry the same reactive benefits from an enforcement point of view or from an interaction or intervention point of view.
Imagine dealing with the aftermath of an overdose day in and day out. That's the reality for Agent Ed Byrne and his team, who are on the front lines of the fentanyl crisis in San Diego County. In this gripping episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev sits down with Byrne to discuss the harrowing experiences of first responders at overdose scenes.
Byrne, a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations, has been part of over 400 death investigations, making him a seasoned expert in this grim field. The conversation dives into the nitty-gritty of drug testing, revealing how mass spectrometers are used on-site to detect fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that's causing a surge in overdose deaths. Byrne also sheds light on the dangers of counterfeit pills and the crucial role of public safety announcements in educating the public about drug risks.
The episode doesn't shy away from discussing the broader implications of substance abuse, touching on gateway drugs and the rising influence of Xanax among younger generations. For anyone grappling with addiction, or those supporting someone who is, this episode offers a raw, unfiltered look at the realities of the overdose crisis. It's a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of this ongoing battle and the efforts being made to save lives.