Carfentanil-Related Deaths See Significant Uptick, CDC Says

CDC reports a deadly resurgence of carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 100 times stronger than fentanyl, in the United States.

At a Glance

Carfentanil-related overdose deaths increased by 720% in one year.
86.9% of carfentanil deaths also involved illegally manufactured fentanyls (IMFs).
37 states reported at least one carfentanil overdose death from January 2023 to June 2024.
The drug poses a significant threat to first responders and law enforcement.

Carfentanil’s Alarming Comeback

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has sounded the alarm on a deadly resurgence of carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl. This powerful drug, originally used to tranquilize large mammals like elephants, has made a startling comeback in the U.S. drug supply, leading to a significant spike in overdose deaths.

The CDC’s report reveals a shocking increase in carfentanil-related fatalities. In the first half of 2024, 238 overdose deaths involved carfentanil, compared to just 29 in the same period of 2023. This represents a staggering 720% increase across 37 states, highlighting the drug’s rapid spread and deadly impact.

A Lethal Combination

What makes carfentanil particularly dangerous is its frequent combination with other illicit drugs. The CDC found that 86.9% of carfentanil-related deaths also involved illegally manufactured fentanyls (IMFs). This lethal mix significantly increases the risk of overdose, as users may be unaware of the potent combination they’re consuming.

“Drug dealers mix it with heroin to presumably make the heroin stronger,” the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) said of carfentanil.

The DEA describes carfentanil as a white powdery substance, easily mistaken for cocaine or heroin. This similarity in appearance increases the risk of accidental consumption, potentially leading to rapid and fatal overdoses.

Risks to First Responders

The extreme potency of carfentanil poses significant dangers not only to users but also to those responding to overdose situations. Law enforcement officers and emergency medical personnel are at risk of accidental exposure, which could have severe consequences.

“This drug is so powerful it poses a significant threat to first responders and law enforcement personnel who touch it by accident. In addition, people can overdose on carfentanil quickly. Multiple doses of the anti-overdose drug Narcan may not be effective,” the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported.

The DEA’s warning underscores the need for extreme caution and specialized training for those dealing with potential carfentanil cases. The fact that multiple doses of Narcan may be ineffective against carfentanil overdoses further complicates rescue efforts.

Addressing the Crisis

In light of this alarming trend, health officials are calling for robust overdose prevention strategies. These include widespread distribution of naloxone, the opioid overdose reversal drug, and educational campaigns about the dangers of counterfeit pills and substances containing IMFs and carfentanil.

The CDC emphasizes the need for comprehensive approaches, including drug checking services, increased naloxone access, and targeted risk reduction messaging. However, it’s important to note that while fentanyl test strips can identify the presence of fentanyl, they may not detect carfentanil, necessitating broader prevention strategies.

As the nation grapples with this resurgent threat, continued vigilance, education, and coordinated efforts across public health, law enforcement, and community organizations will be crucial in combating the deadly impact of carfentanil and other synthetic opioids.