Meth-Laced 7Up Reportedly Found in Mexico

U.S. health officials have issued a warning to American travelers after bottles of methamphetamine-laced 7-Up were reportedly discovered in Mexico.

News accounts have stated that the contaminated soft drinks, believed to have been bought in the Mexicali area, have killed one person and sickened at least seven others, according to the Attorney General of Justice of the State of Baja California.

(Mexicali is located about 240 miles from Phoenix and 124 miles from San Diego, just south of the California border and Interstate 8.)

A statement released by Banner Health, a hospital network in Arizona and Colorado, outlined the symptoms that might ensue from consumption of meth-contaminated soft drinks:

Medical Toxicologists and Emergency Department physicians are on high alert after reports of tampering to soft drinks emerged from Mexico several days ago. These reports indicate that 7UP® bottles consumed in Mexicali, Mexico, were contaminated with methamphetamine.

Experts remind people to be vigilant when traveling. “It is important to check that the seal for any food and drink consumed is still intact and show no signs of tampering,” said Dr. Daniel Brooks, Banner Poison and Drug Information Center medical director. “If you notice any difference in color, taste or smell, throw it out.”

Side-effects from this soft drink contamination can present suddenly and may result in life threatening illness. Symptoms may include:

o Irritation of, or abnormal taste in, the mouth our throat
o Burning to the esophagus or abdomen
o Nausea or vomiting
o Difficulty breathing
o Fast or irregular heart beat

People who consume drinks or food suspected to have been contaminated in any manner should immediately contact the Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222. The poison centers’ nurses and pharmacists are available 24/7 for any concerning ingestion or exposure, including unexpected dietary effects. If significant symptoms develop, contact Emergency Medical Services via 911 immediately.

The health department of Baja California also issued a statement noting that the meth was found in 2-liter bottles of 7Up and that all stores in the area had been instructed to remove the product from their shelves.

A spokesman for Dr Pepper Snapple Group, the distributors of 7Up in the United States, said that "None of the 7Up products sold in the U.S. are affected by the issue being reported in Mexico."