COLUMBUS, Ohio —

Tainted Cocaine is behind a new health alert that has been issued by Columbus Public Health to physicians.  Health officials said that last week, physicians in Central Ohio reported seeing two patients with serious skin conditions after they used cocaine laced with levamisole; a drug used in cancer treatment and also used to deworm veterinary animals.

According to Columbus Public Health, levamisole can cause a decreased white blood cell count, decreased bone marrow function, blood problems, nervous system problems and also death.

CPH is encouraging physicians to watch for symptoms including skin infection, pneumonia, painful sores and high fever or chills. People who develop those symptoms and who use cocaine are encouraged to contact a physician immediately.

Jose Rodriguez with Columbus Public Health said there have been eight similar cases reported in the state and that this is a problem across the country.

“Many of the people that are being affected by this have a complicated drug addiction so this is just one more complication that can be extremely painful. it can actually be deadly,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez said the drug is being used as a filler in cocaine. He said officials are also reaching out to those who use drugs. He says the skin condition is not contagious.

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