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NYSDOH-OASAS Health Advisory: Levamisole-Contaminated Cocaine

September 2010

This Health Advisory highlights levamisole-contaminated cocaine as a growing problem in the United States (US) and other countries. Patients exposed to levamisole-contaminated cocaine have been identified in several US states, including New York State (NYS). In July 2009, the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) reported that 69% of cocaine entering the US contained levamisole. The DEA has also detected trace amounts of levamisole in heroin seizures.

Levamisole is a veterinary antihelmintic medication. Levamisole-contaminated cocaine is associated with severe side effects including agranulocytosis leading to increased susceptibility to infection. It is also associated with vasculitis and necrotic skin lesions in unusual locations, such as ear lobes and face.

For more information about this health advisory, please visit the New York State Department of Health website at: http://www.nyhealth.gov/diseases/aids/harm_reduction/opioidprevention/health_advisory_levamisole-contaminated_cocaine.htm

To download and view the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene 2010 Health Advisory # 14, Possible Levamisole-induced Toxicity in Cocaine-using Patients, please click here.