Fentanyl

(FEN-tuh-nuhl)

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine. It is used for severe pain, chronic pain management, and anesthesia.

Historical context

Fentanyl was first synthesized in 1960 by Belgian chemist Paul Janssen and was introduced as an intravenous anesthetic in the 1960s. It gained notoriety in recent years due to its role in the opioid epidemic and its frequent involvement in overdose deaths.

Medical formulations

Fentanyl is available in injectable forms, transdermal patches (e.g., Duragesic®️), and transmucosal preparations such as lozenges and lollipops.

How long does fentanyl stay in your system?

Fentanyl has a half-life of approximately 2 to 4 hours. The drug can be expected to be eliminated from the body within 10 to 20 hours.

Street names

China White, Apache, Dance Fever, Friend

Appearance

Fentanyl is typically challenging to identify because it can come as a brick, powder, or pills and is usually white and powdery, or clear in its liquid state. Fentanyl transdermal patches are rectangular and transparent, with the dosage and brand name printed on the patch. Fentanyl lollipops and lozenges come in various colors and flavors and are individually packaged.