Powder fentanyl
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Powder Fentanyl: Analysis, Risks, and Detection
Characterization of Fentanyl HCl Powder
Fentanyl HCl powder is a significant focus in forensic science due to its potent effects and widespread misuse. A comprehensive study utilized advanced techniques like liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to analyze fresh and degraded fentanyl HCl powder. The study identified five primary compounds in fresh fentanyl HCl: N-phenylpropanamide, 1-phenethyl-4-propionyloxypiperidine (1-P-4-POP), 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (4-ANPP), acetylfentanyl, and fentanyl itself. Notably, the quantities of all compounds except acetylfentanyl and fentanyl decreased upon degradation, suggesting that these compounds volatilize during the degradation process1.
Fentanyl in Illicit Drug Markets
The presence of fentanyl in illicit drug markets, particularly in the form of white powder heroin, has been increasingly documented. A study conducted in Mexico's northern border cities revealed that 93% of "pure" white powder heroin samples contained fentanyl. This finding is alarming as users were often unaware of fentanyl's presence, significantly increasing the risk of overdose2. Similarly, in the United States, the rise of illegally manufactured fentanyl (IMF) has been linked to a substantial increase in overdose deaths. The purity-adjusted price of IMF has also declined, making it more accessible and contributing to its widespread use5.
Potency and Risks of Fentanyl Analogs
Fentanyl analogs, such as furanylfentanyl and β-hydroxyfentanyl, are highly potent and pose severe health risks even in small quantities. Case reports have documented instances where minimal exposure to these analogs resulted in apnea and required naloxone reversal. The potency of these analogs is such that even a dose as small as 500 micrograms can be life-threatening3. Additionally, the combination of fentanyl with other substances, such as U-47700 or 4-methoxy PV8, has been associated with fatal poisonings, further highlighting the dangers of fentanyl and its analogs in the illicit drug market6 7.
Detection and Forensic Analysis
The detection of fentanyl and its analogs is crucial for both forensic investigations and public health safety. Innovative methods, such as a wearable electrochemical glove-based sensor, have been developed for rapid, on-site detection of fentanyl. This sensor can detect fentanyl in both liquid and powder forms with high sensitivity, providing a valuable tool for first responders and law enforcement to quickly identify the presence of fentanyl and mitigate its risks8.
Conclusion
Fentanyl and its analogs present significant challenges due to their high potency and prevalence in illicit drug markets. Advanced analytical techniques are essential for characterizing these substances and understanding their behavior under various conditions. The development of rapid detection methods, such as wearable sensors, offers promising solutions for timely intervention and prevention of fentanyl-related overdoses. As the landscape of synthetic opioids continues to evolve, ongoing research and innovative detection technologies will be critical in addressing the public health crisis associated with fentanyl.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Characterization of fentanyl HCl powder prior to and after systematic degradation
The forced degradation process of fentanyl HCl powder has minimal permanent effect on its composition, making it a suitable target for standoff detection.
Rigorous JournalFentanyl is used in Mexico's northern border. Current challenges for drug health policies.
Most white powder heroin users in Mexico were unknowingly exposed to fentanyl, with 93% of samples tested positive for fentanyl.
Observational StudyRigorous JournalHighly potent fentanyl analogs: apnea from exposure to small quantities of ß-hydroxyfentanyl and furanylfentanyl
Small quantities of highly potent fentanyl analogs, furanylfentanyl and ß-hydroxyfentanyl, can cause apnea and require naloxone reversal in users.
Case ReportCounterfeit Medications and Fentanyl.
Counterfeit Xanax tablets containing fentanyl and etizolam have been detected in San Francisco, California, highlighting the need for public awareness and education on this issue.
Case ReportRigorous Journal
Highly CitedRapid changes in illegally manufactured fentanyl products and prices in the United States
Illegally manufactured fentanyl in the US has become more deadly and diverse since 2013, with the median price per pure gram falling by more than 50% from 2016 to 2021.
Observational StudyRigorous JournalA case of acute intoxication due to combined use of fentanyl and 3,4-dichloro-N-[2-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl]-N-methylbenzamide (U-47700).
U-47700, an opioid analgesic drug, was found in a fatal intoxication case, with fentanyl levels of 10.9g/L and U-47700 levels of 13.8 and 71.0g/L, respectively.
Case ReportHighly CitedA fatal poisoning case by intravenous injection of "bath salts" containing acetyl fentanyl and 4-methoxy PV8.
Acute poisoning by "bath salts" containing acetyl fentanyl and 4-methoxy PV8 led to the death of a 30-year-old man, likely due to self-administered intravenous injection.
Case ReportWearable electrochemical glove-based sensor for rapid and on-site detection of fentanyl.
Wearable glove-based sensors can rapidly detect fentanyl on the fingertips, offering potential for rapid point-of-need screening for first responders.
Highly CitedTrends in and Characteristics of Drug Overdose Deaths Involving Illicitly Manufactured Fentanyls — United States, 2019–2020
Illicitly manufactured fentanyl overdose deaths increased sharply in midwestern, southern, and western states during July 2019-December 2020, with 4 in 10 deaths also involving stimulants.
Observational StudyHighly CitedRapid detection of fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and opioids for on-site or laboratory based drug seizure screening using thermal desorption DART-MS and ion mobility spectrometry
Thermal desorption DART-MS and ion mobility spectrometry effectively detect fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and opioids in drug seizures, with safe methods for field screening and identification.
Highly Cited