The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning about carfentanil, a synthetic opioid that is approximately 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl. The CDC says it has re-emerged in the U.S. drug supply.
Carfentanil was originally designed to tranquilize large mammals like elephants and bears. However, it is now contributing to deaths across the United States.
The potent opioid was detected in over 513 overdose deaths from January 2021 to June 2024, according to the CDC.
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While the overall number remains low, the CDC reports that carfentanil-related deaths increased by 503.4% from June to December 2023. Deaths then rose another 36% in the first half of 2024.
The CDC says there was a total increase of 720.7% in carfentanil deaths from the first half of 2023 to the first half of 2024.
States most affected by carfentanil deaths
The states hardest hit by carfentanil-related deaths were Florida and West Virginia, each reporting more than 20 deaths in 2023.
Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New York and Ohio each reported between 10 and 19 carfentanil deaths during the same period.
In its report, the CDC notes that while the number of deaths attributed to illegally manufactured fentanyl began to decline across the U.S. in late 2023, the overall number of overdose deaths remains high.
The CDC states, “Despite declines, recent sharp increases in overdose deaths with carfentanil detected, although rare, highlight the ever-changing illegal drug supply and threaten progress in reducing overdose deaths.”
Carfentanil’s forms and exposure risks
According to a bulletin published by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), carfentanil can come in several forms. Those forms include powder, blotter paper, tablets, patches and sprays. The skin can absorb some of these forms. People can also accidentally inhale it.
The DEA warns about the potential risks of exposure. Symptoms of carfentanil exposure typically occur within minutes. They may include respiratory depression or arrest, drowsiness, disorientation, sedation, pinpoint pupils and clammy skin.
If you suspect a carfentanil exposure in someone, the DEA advises seeking immediate medical attention. Call EMS and prepare to administer naloxone, an antidote for opioid overdose.
