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Name: Carfentanil
Type: Opioid analgesic
AKA: Wildnil
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II. Natural Derivative
Synthetic substance, no natural derivative
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III. Chemical Profile (IUPAC name)
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IV. History
Carfentanil, a powerful fentanyl analog, was developed in the 1970s for use as a tranquilizer for large animals. Its extreme potency makes it unsuitable for human use, and it has been involved in significant public health concerns due to its potential for overdose.
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V. Legal Information
Carfentanil, an extremely potent synthetic opioid, is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the US, used only in veterinary practice. It is banned for human use due to its high potential for abuse and fatal overdose risks. The UNODC and other regulatory bodies emphasize the need for strict controls to prevent misuse and address the global opioid crisis.
US Federal Schedule - II
Schedule II drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. These drugs are also considered dangerous. Some examples of Schedule II drugs are: combination products with less than 15 milligrams of hydrocodone per dosage unit (Vicodin), cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), meperidine (Demerol), oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall, and Ritalin.
Key US Federal Policies:
Controlled Substances Act. Public Law: Public Law 91-513 (text can be found on GovInfo) (https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/csa). Date enacted: October 27, 1970.
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VI. Physical Effects
Carfentanil is an extremely potent synthetic opioid used primarily as a tranquilizer for large animals. It acts as a downer, causing severe sedation, respiratory depression, and constricted pupils. Short-term use is highly effective for tranquilizing animals, but it is dangerous for humans due to its potency. Overdose can result in rapid and fatal respiratory depression. Safe use requires strict controls and should never be used in humans. Recent research highlights its extreme potency and overdose risks.  |
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VII. Psychological Effects
A highly potent opioid with strong analgesic and euphoric effects. Long-term use can result in severe addiction, cognitive impairments, and mood disorders. Research emphasizes its potent effects on opioid receptors and risks of psychological dependence.
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VIII. Culture
Carfentanil is a potent opioid used primarily in veterinary medicine, classifying it as a downer. Short-term use provides significant analgesia, while long-term use can lead to dependence, tolerance, and severe health risks. Overdose risks are extremely high, causing severe respiratory depression and potentially fatal outcomes. Safe dosages are controlled in veterinary settings. Recent research highlights its extreme potency and high risk of misuse. Physical effects include drowsiness, constricted pupils, and severe respiratory depression.
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