Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a synthetic pain-killing drug designed to work like opiates.[1] It is the most powerful opiod.[2]
Fentanyl is widely acquired, and abused, by drug addicts.[1]
Those who die, from abusing fentanyl, die from its overall depression of bodily functions interfering with their breathing.[1][2]
Fentanyl is extremely potent, with an LD50 of 2 milligrams. Many people have been killed by accidental overdoses. Law enforcement officers are trained to use caution when handling fentanyl, because of the risk of inhalation or transdermal exposure. The effects can be reversed by Narcan (naloxone).
References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2
"Fentanyl". National Institute on Drug Abus. 2021-12-21. Archived from the original on 2026-05-07. Retrieved 2026-05-08.
Fentanyl is an opioid drug, like morphine or heroin. It is made entirely in laboratories, with no natural ingredients. Although it is approved as a prescription pain medicine, most of the fentanyl contributing to the current overdose crisis is made illegally.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1
"Fentanyl : Frequently Asked Questions". MyHealth.Alberta.ca. 2026-05-10. Retrieved 2026-05-08.
Fentanyl is a strong medicine made from opioids (chemicals used to treat sudden and ongoing pain). It’s up to 100 times stronger than other opioids like morphine, heroin, or oxycodone.