The Dangers of Using Bug Spray as a Drug in Correctional Facilities

 The Use of Pyrethroids Pesticides Leads to Overdoses and Serious Health Risks for Inmates

By: Richard Rich

In a major Midwest city, the fire department responded to a dozen overdose cases in a single day, all of which involved the use of bug spray containing high concentrations of pyrethroids pesticides. The bug spray had been sprayed onto marijuana and tobacco products, which were then smoked by inmates in the prison. This synthetic compound is highly addictive, and even a small amount of consumption can lead to tragedy.

Unlike other drugs, this synthetic compound cannot be detected by a standard drug test, making it difficult for authorities to identify and stop its use. When an inmate overdoes on this synthetic drug, they must be immediately taken to the infirmary for treatment. However, even after becoming clean from the bug spray, inmates have a tendency to try it again the next day due to its highly addictive effects.

Unfortunately, inmates have been able to obtain this bug spray through the prison commissary, highlighting the need for increased security measures to prevent the introduction of contraband into the facility. In order to address this issue, it is important for prisons to switch to an insect repellent that does not contain pyrethroids pesticides, such as the EPA-registered active ingredient IR 3535 manufactured by Merck. This will help to prevent future incidents of overdose and protect the safety and well-being of inmates.