Muse Treatment: Is Carfentanil More Potent than Fentanyl

As the general public becomes more aware of the addiction and overdose risks of fentanyl, a fentanyl analog poses much more risk. Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid originally developed for veterinary use in very large animals like elephants. It belongs to the fentanyl family of drugs, but is carfentanil more potent than fentanyl? While fentanyl is already 50-100 times more potent than morphine, carfentanil is approximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl, making it roughly 10,000 times more powerful than morphine. This extreme potency means that even microscopic amounts can be lethal to humans.

Due to this extremely high potency, carfentanil poses severe risks to everyone who comes in contact with the drug, even if they’re not using it. First responders must take increased precautions when handling it, as even accidental skin contact or inhalation of airborne particles can be dangerous. Its presence in illicit drug supplies has contributed to numerous overdose deaths, as users may be unaware of its presence, and its potency overwhelms even individuals with high opioid tolerance. The CDC estimates that over 110,000 people in the U.S. died from drug overdoses in 2022, almost 70% of these deaths were caused by fentanyl and other synthetic opioids like carfentanil. Due to this danger, we’ll explain how carfentanil vs. fentanyl compares and the characteristics of these synthetic opioids.

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Can Carfentanil Be Absorbed Through Skin?

Yes, carfentanil can be absorbed through the skin, though the risk level varies depending on the concentration and exposure time. Brief contact with dry powder generally poses a lower risk, but the substance becomes more dangerous when mixed with solvents or in liquid form, which can increase skin penetration. This is why first responders and lab workers must wear appropriate protective equipment including impermeable gloves, long sleeves, and often full protective suits when there’s any risk of exposure.

Due to these risks of exposure leading to the symptoms of a fentanyl overdose occurring, seeking immediate medical attention is vitally important, as symptoms can develop rapidly. Medical professionals should be aware of any potential exposure to the opioid so they can monitor for symptoms and have naloxone ready if needed.

Will Carfentanil Test Positive for Fentanyl?

Yes, carfentanil and other fentanyl analogs typically show up on standard fentanyl tests, including screening tests and more detailed confirmatory tests. However, the accuracy depends on the specific test being used, as some basic tests may have varying sensitivity levels. For the most precise results, specialized testing may be needed, particularly for clinical purposes. Some newer test strips and analytical methods have been developed specifically to detect and distinguish between different fentanyl analogs including carfentanil.

The risks of fentanyl are well known, but they are increased when fentanyl is mixed into other drugs without users’ knowledge, leading to accidental overdoses. The quick onset of fentanyl effects means that overdoses can occur very rapidly, sometimes before help can arrive, and multiple doses of naloxone may be needed to reverse an overdose.

carfentanil more potent vs fentanyl

What Is the Half-Life of Carfentanil?

Carfentanil has a relatively short half-life compared to many other opioids. Research from ScienceDirect indicates its half-life in blood is about 5.7 hours, though this can vary based on factors like individual metabolism, liver function, and how the drug was ingested. This short half-life is particularly dangerous because when the drug begins to wear off, individuals may be tempted to use it again, potentially leading to overdose.

Despite this relatively short half-life, the drug’s extreme potency means it can still cause severe respiratory depression and other life-threatening effects well beyond this timeframe. Medical monitoring should continue for an extended period even after apparent recovery from exposure, as secondary respiratory depression can occur.

What Is the Antagonist of Carfentanil?

Naloxone (also known by the brand name Narcan) is the primary antagonist used to reverse carfentanil overdose, just as it is for other opioids. However, due to carfentanil’s extreme potency, much larger doses of naloxone are typically required compared to regular opioid overdoses – often multiple doses or continuous infusion may be necessary.

Naltrexone is another opioid antagonist that can block carfentanil’s effects, but it’s primarily used in addiction treatment rather than emergency overdose response. The challenge with carfentanil overdoses is that they can overwhelm standard naloxone doses. Due to this, medical professionals often need to administer significantly higher amounts than what’s needed for other opioid overdoses, sometimes 10-20 times the usual amount of naloxone. This is why immediate emergency medical response is crucial for suspected carfentanil overdoses.

Is Carfentanil More Potent Than Fentanyl? Contact Muse Treatment for Drug Treatment Facts and Support

Over 5,500 California residents died due to opioid overdose in 2020, nearly 4,000 of which were due to fentanyl, according to the California Department of Justice. Is carfentanil more potent than fentanyl? Yes, but they both carry plenty of danger for both users and the people who come into contact with the drugs to always be mindful of where to seek medical help.

For those struggling with fentanyl addiction, Muse Treatment in Los Angeles provides comprehensive care through evidence-based therapies, medically supervised detoxification, and holistic treatment approaches. The fentanyl addiction facility maintains a caring residential environment where patients can focus on their recovery in comfort and safety. Our integrated treatment programs combine medical expertise with therapeutic support to help patients overcome fentanyl dependence and build foundations for lasting recovery. Our addiction treatment center’s experienced team works closely with each patient through the detox process and subsequent treatment phases, providing personalized care addressing the physical and mental aspects of addiction. Please call Muse Treatment in Los Angeles at 800-426-1818 today to discover more about our professional support and addiction treatment options.