18th Oct 2022
New and Dangerous Synthetic Opioids
Are New Synthetic Opioids Posing Increased Risks?
Synthetic opioids are commonly used in clinical settings as they provide analgesic effects for individuals suffering from severe pain. Unfortunately, these addictive drugs commonly used and abused outside of a prescribed setting, including illicit production and distribution. Fentanyl and substances related to Fentanyl are among the most common synthetic opioids being illegally trafficked. Unfortunately, due to the potency of Fentanyl and related drugs, they also present a high potential to result in a fatal overdose.
What are Some of the Newest Synthetic Opioids?
As mentioned above, Fentanyl and Fentanyl-related drugs are among the most common types of synthetic opioids found to be used illegally. A new drug trend referred to as “Rainbow Fentanyl” is rising in popularity1. With brightly colored, chalk-like characteristics, the main concern behind this version of Fentanyl is the possibility for it to be confused with candy, or that it could be used to target children. Fentanyl is known to be more than 50 times more potent than Heroin and 100 times more potent than Morphine.
Another new drug that has appeared in Colorado, known by the street name “Pyro,” has already been found as the culprit behind one death in Denver. N-pyrrolidino Etonitazene is also considered a high-potency synthetic opioid and has a potency of more than 10 times that of Fentanyl. According to the Mesa County Sherriff’s Office, Pyro looks nearly identical to Fentanyl pills2.
How to Test for New Synthetic Opioids
The demand for analytical methods that can ensure accurate results for comprehensive drugs lists (with reasonable analysis times) is at an all-time high. The Raptor™ Biphenyl column has been used to develop LC-MS/MS methodology for 231 drugs and drug metabolites because it has the retention required for the wide range of compound classes tested. More information can be found in ‘The Big Pain’ application note.
For the latest information regarding other forensic toxicology applications, check out our latest mini catalog, or reach out to our product specialists with any questions.
References:
1. https://chqgov.com/public-health/news/public-health-alert-deadly-rainbow-fentanyl-looks-sweet-tarts