16th Jan 2025
New and Dangerous Synthetic Opioids
Are New Synthetic Opioids Increasing Risks?
Synthetic opioids are widely utilized in medical environments for their analgesic properties, offering relief to those experiencing severe pain. However, these highly addictive substances are often misused outside of prescribed contexts, including illicit manufacturing and distribution. Fentanyl and its analogs are among the most commonly trafficked synthetic opioids. Due to their extreme potency, these drugs pose a significant risk of 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