FENTANYL can be a true danger to all First Responders as it comes in various forms, including powder, which can become airborne. Please take the time to read the attached Safety Recommendations from the DEA regarding this used - with a high potential to be abused - narcotic.
Briefly, this highly potent synthetic opioid is one that is used primarily as an analgesic. It is 20 to 40 times more potent than heroin and up to 100 times more potent than morphine. Its primary clinical utility is in pain management for cancer patients and those recovering from painful surgeries. Fentanyl is also used as a sedative. Depending on the method of delivery, fentanyl can be very fast acting and ingesting a relatively small quantity can cause overdose, which can be fatal. (Source: Wikipedia) |