Fentanyl has made headlines for driving overdose deaths, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning that Even deadly drugs.
Last year, nearly 70% of US overdose deaths were attributed to illegally manufactured fentanyl (IMFs). One of them was carfentanil, a modified version of fentanyl that is said to be 100 times more potent, the CDC warned in a Dec. 5 alert.
Deaths from carfentanil jumped more than 700 percent last year, according to the same source — with 29 fatal overdoses between January and June 2023, and 238 during the same period in 2024.
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This data comes from the CDC’s State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System (SUDORS).
The agency noted that the number may actually be higher, as the 2024 data is preliminary and not all overdose deaths have been reported.
Carfentanil, a modified version of fentanyl said to be 100 times more potent, the CDC on Dec. 5 What was warned in the alert? (iStock)
The CDC noted that since an outbreak of carfentanil-linked deaths in 2016 and 2016, the drug had “largely disappeared” until this recent re-emergence.
Based on the increase in fatal overdoses, the CDC is calling for “intense monitoring” of carfentanil and other opioids that are more potent than fentanyl.
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As with other illegal drugs, its “high profitability” is likely driving its spread, according to Dr. Chris Toole, clinical director of addiction services. University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.
“Thousands of doses can be produced in very small quantities,” he told Fox News Digital.
“Synthetic opioids Like carfentanil, it’s relatively easy to manufacture in illegal laboratories,” Towell said. “Because the drug is synthetic, it’s easy to produce — unlike heroin, which depends on a plant like opium.”
Why is carfentanil so dangerous?
Tull confirmed that carfentanil is 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
“Even a small amount can be fatal, as can cause it. Respiratory failure” he said.
Carfentanil can sometimes come in the form of “compressed tablets” that resemble prescription drugs, the expert said. (iStock)
A major concern about carfentanil and fentanyl is that they are often combined with other drugs, such as benzodiazepines, cocaine and opioids, which can lead to accidental overdoses, according to Toll.
“Carfentanil also resembles cocaine and heroin, so it mixes well with other drugs,” he warned.
“Even a small amount can be fatal, as it can cause respiratory failure.”
“Even a small amount can increase the potency of the drug compound, leading to a stronger and longer-lasting high.”
Carfentanil often appeals to drug users who have a high tolerance for opioids because they seek a stronger substance, “making the drug attractive despite the risk,” Towell noted.
How are drugs administered?
Carfentanil can be injected and is often mixed with other opioids or heroin, Towell said. In powder form, it can be inhaled.
“Inhaling the drug can be dangerous quickly because it can enter the bloodstream, leading to an overdose,” Tull warns. “This can be intentional or accidental, as the drug can easily become airborne.”
An addiction expert warned that carfentanil can be injected and is often mixed with other opioids or heroin. (iStock)
Carfentanil can sometimes come in the form of “compressed tablets” that resemble prescription drugs, the expert said.
“Carfentanil can be lethal in the 2 milligram range depending on the route of administration,” he warned.
What parents should know
“Kids are the next generation. Artificial intelligence And deep-fakes, as illegal drugs are masquerading as regular prescription drugs,” Tull warned.
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to help Protect children With the dangers of illegal drugs, the expert stressed the importance of open communication and education.
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“Educate your child about the risks and dangers of drug use, including synthetic opioids like carfentanil,” she advises.
Tuell recommended that parents should provide supervision and monitoring of their children, be aware of their social circles and limit unsupervised online activities.
Based on the increase in fatal overdoses, the CDC is calling for “intense monitoring” of carfentanil and other opioids that are more potent than fentanyl. (iStock)
“I also believe it’s important for parents to realize that 84% of people with substance use disorders have co-occurring disorders. Mental health problem,” he added.
“Seeking mental health services for your child can help address the underlying issues that can lead to a substance use disorder.”
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CDC calls for specific efforts to prevent deaths from illicitly manufactured fentanyls, “such as maintaining and improving distribution of harm reduction tools, access to treatment for substance use disorders and maintaining, and preventing the initiation of, drug use.”
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for comment.