CDC warns about the emergence of a drug, 100 times more potent than fentanyl

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned the public about the spike of a deadly drug, which is 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
Approximately 70% of US overdose deaths in 2023 were linked to illegally manufactured fentanyls (IMFs). The local reports suggest that an even deadlier drug,

carfentanil

, a fentanyl analog has reemerged lately.
In 2023, approximately 72,000, or nearly seven in 10, drug overdose deaths in the US were estimated to be linked with IMFs. In the past year, deaths from carfentanil spiked by more than 700%, and 29 deadly overdoses were recorded between January and June 2023, and 238 in that same time frame in 2024.

According to the CDC, IMFs and

fentanyl analogs

entered the US illegal supply in 2013, as adulterants of or replacements for white powder heroin in the Northeast and have now replaced heroin as the dominant opioid in the United States. The spike in IMF has led to a rise in overdose deaths, likely due to their high potency and rapid onset of effects.

As carfentanil is synthetic, it is relatively easy to manufacture in illicit labs, as it unlike heroine, it is not dependent on a plant. CDC suggests that taking measures such as educating about the dangers of substance use and of using pills that are not prescribed because they could be counterfeit and contain IMFs is crucial to curb and reduce overdose deaths. Along with curbing its supply, the CDC is also rigorously monitoring carfentanil and other highly potent opioids, such as certain nitazene analogs, to prevent the spike in overdose deaths. “Overdose prevention efforts that address the widespread presence of IMFs, including carfentanil, and can rapidly adapt to other potent opioids in the drug supply, might result in lasting reductions in overdose deaths across the United States,”

CDC underlines about its implications for public health practice.

Why is carfentanil deadly?

CDC has confirmed that carfentanil, a fentanyl analog is 100 times more potent than fentanyl. This means even a small amount can be fatal. Its potency and potential to be mixed with other

drugs

, such as benzodiazepines, cocaine, and opioids, make it especially deadly. Users may consume it without awareness, leading to accidental deaths. As it is airborne, the risks are even higher. Inhaling even a small amount can lead to respiratory failure and death.
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