Carfentanil: Another Horrific Drug Crossing America’s Borders
You are here:It’s hard to imagine a drug more lethal than fentanyl, which is 100 times more potent than morphine. Until recently, fentanyl has been the primary driver of drug overdose deaths. However, fentanyl seems mild compared to the potency of its derivative, carfentanil.
About 70% of overdose deaths in the US last year were attributed to carfentanil and other illegally manufactured fentanyl. It is 100 times more potent than fentanyl and is responsible for a 700% increase in overdose deaths in 2023 and 2024.
What Is Carfentanil?
Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid 10,000 times more potent than morphine. The primary use of this drug is to tranquilize large mammals such as elephants. It is the most potent fentanyl analog available on the streets today.
As a Schedule II controlled substance, carfentanil has a high potential for abuse with potential severe physical or psychological dependence. Only 2 milligrams of the substance can be lethal.
This deadly drug comes in different forms including powder, tablets, spray, and blotter paper. Many people mistake carfentanil for heroin or cocaine, and it is often sold as such, causing thousands of overdose deaths. It is also used to produce a drug called Gray Death which contains a varying combination of drugs.
In contrast to fentanyl, carfentanil is not approved for human use.
People often buy the drug online using street names such as Drop Dead, Grey Death, C50, and Serial Killer.
First Responders Warned About Health and Safety Risks
The DEA warns first responders and medical personnel about the risks of handling carfentanil. Each form can be absorbed through the skin or accidentally inhaled. Therefore, only trained and properly outfitted law enforcement professionals should handle any fentanyl/carfentanil-related substance. Signs of exposure may include respiratory depression, sedation, disorientation, and clammy skin.
Side Effects of Carfentanil
Carfentanil slows the central nervous system and can cause the following symptoms:
- Shallow breathing
- Dizziness
- Itching
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Delirium
- Weakness
Intentional or unintentional use can quickly cause physical dependence, addiction, or overdose.
Signs of Carfentanil Addiction
Addiction to carfentanil is rare because most people who use it are those with opioid use disorder. They are already accustomed to the effects of opioids. However, tolerance levels build quickly requiring higher doses. Over time, the person becomes psychologically and physically dependent on this drug, thereby increasing the risk of overdose.
Signs of addiction resemble those of opioid addiction:
- Slurred speech
- Track marks or injection sites
- Poor hygiene
- Social isolation
- Financial problems
- Constricted pupils
- Drowsiness, lethargy
Like opioid addiction, carfentanil addiction requires professional addiction treatment to address the physical and psychological reasons for substance abuse.
Signs of Overdose
The likelihood of overdose is extremely high. Still, it can be prevented by avoiding street drugs such as cocaine or heroin. Devious drug dealers do anything to maximize profits. Mixing carfentanil with other drugs increases potency without increasing cost is one of their tactics. Unsuspecting buyers may believe they are getting their regular drug, which can cause them to overdose.
The signs of carfentanil overdose are similar to overdose on other opioids. The symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Trouble breathing
- Loss of coordination
- Extreme sleepiness
- Respiratory arrest
- Blue lips or skin
- Pinpoint pupils
- Unconsciousness
- Heart failure
Naloxone (Narcan) reverses opioid overdose, however, multiple doses may be needed when carfentanil is involved.
Treatment for Carfentanil Dependence and Addiction
Carfentanil withdrawal can be life-threatening, so professional supervision and assistance are essential. If you or someone you know is ready to stop using, Design for Change is here to help.
We believe everyone has the power to overcome addiction if they have the right support and expertise. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, full continuum of care customized to each client’s unique needs. At Design for Change, several treatment options are available to ensure each client gets the high-quality care they deserve. We offer several levels of treatment including:
- Outpatient
- Intensive Outpatient
- Inpatient
- Intensive Inpatient
- Partial Hospitalization
- Aftercare Services
The programs range from short-term to long-term and can be adjusted as needed. We also offer gender-specific programs, first responder wellness programs, family therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and veterans rehab.
Our whole-person approach to treatment seeks to heal the mind, body, and spirit through a combination of modalities such as holistic therapy, music and art therapy, life skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, dual-diagnosis treatment, nutrition, exercise, meditation, and mindfulness practices.
Design for Change is a JCAHO-accredited facility and is in-network with major insurance companies to help you get the best level of care possible. Our certified treatment specialists ensure that you receive the respect and compassion you need during your stay with us.
Contact our Lancaster, CA facility today to learn more about our programs. Our goal is to make sure you receive the best addiction treatment possible. Call now to speak with a treatment advisor and get started on your drug-free future.
Sources:
dea.gov/press-releases – DEA Issues Carfentanil Warning to Police and Public
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov – Carentanil and the Rise and Fall of Overdose Deaths
dea.gov – Drug Scheduling
