I'm a pre-hospital volunteer and we just received this info from the FDA. It is a drug that is prevalent on the east coast at this time but is spreading rapidly. Please read and be aware:
Carfentanil: A Dangerous New Factor in the U.S. Opioid Crisis
Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid approximately 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 timesmore potent than fentanyl. The presence of carfentanil in illicit U.S. drug markets is cause for concern, asthe relative strength of this drug could lead to an increase in overdoses and overdose-related deaths, evenamong opioid-tolerant users.
The presence of carfentanil poses a significant threat to first responders andlaw enforcement personnel who may come in contact with this substance. In any situation where anyfentanyl-related substance, such as carfentanil, might be present, law enforcement shouldcarefully follow safety protocols to avoid accidental exposure.
Officer & Public Safety Information
Carfentanil and other fentanyl analogues present a serious risk to public safety, first responder, medical,treatment, and laboratory personnel. These substances can come in several forms, including powder,blotter paper, tablets, patch, and spray. Some forms can be absorbed through the skin or accidentallyinhaled. If encountered, responding personnel should do the following based on the specific situation:
ï‚· Exercise extreme caution. Only properly trained and outfitted law enforcement professionalsshould handle any substance suspected to contain fentanyl or a fentanyl-related compound. Ifencountered, contact the appropriate officials within your agency.
ï‚· Be aware of any sign of exposure. Symptoms include: respiratory depression or arrest,drowsiness, disorientation, sedation, pinpoint pupils, and clammy skin. The onset of these symptomsusually occurs within minutes of exposure.
ï‚· Seek IMMEDIATE medical attention. Carfentanil and other fentanyl-related substances can workvery quickly, so in cases of suspected exposure, it is important to call EMS immediately. If inhaled,move the victim to fresh air. If ingested and the victim is conscious, wash out the victim's eyes andmouth with cool water.
ï‚· Be ready to administer naloxone in the event of exposure. Naloxone is an antidote for opioidoverdose. Immediately administering naloxone can reverse an overdose of carfentanil, fentanyl, orother opioids, although multiple doses of naloxone may be required. Continue to administer a doseof naloxone every 2-3 minutes until the individual is breathing on his/her own for at least 15 minutesor until EMS arrives.
ï‚· Remember that carfentanil can resemble powdered cocaine or heroin. If you suspect thepresence of carfentanil or any synthetic opioid, do not take samples or otherwise disturb thesubstance, as this could lead to accidental exposure. Rather, secure the substance and followapproved transportation procedures.
Lethality:Carfentanil is used as a tranquilizing agent for elephants and other large mammals. Thelethal dose range for carfentanil in humans is unknown; however, carfentanil isapproximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which can be lethal at the 2-milligram range (photograph), depending on route of administration and other factors.
For additional safety information, please use the resources below:
There was a recent headline in the news, in the southern tip of Maine, about a person who overdosed on heroin laced with carfentanil and required 5 doses of Narcan to make him conscious. The dosage and route were not highlighted in the article, but still that is a lot! Apparently, the patient survived, but I can't imagine needing that much Narcan for an overdose.
Medic2BSN13, BSN, RN
68 Posts
There was a recent headline in the news, in the southern tip of Maine, about a person who overdosed on heroin laced with carfentanil and required 5 doses of Narcan to make him conscious. The dosage and route were not highlighted in the article, but still that is a lot! Apparently, the patient survived, but I can't imagine needing that much Narcan for an overdose.