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The term "opioids" includes compounds extracted from poppy seeds, as well as semi-synthetic and synthetic compounds with similar properties that can interact with opioid receptors in the brain, causing euphoria, which is one of the main reasons they are taken nonmedically. Opioids are commonly used for pain management and include drugs such as morphine, fentanyl, and tramadol. Misuse and use without medical supervision can lead to opioid dependence and other health problems such as breathing difficulties, and an overdose can lead to death.
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid used as a painkiller and anesthetic. It is approximately 50–100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl in various formulations is listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. However, fentanyl and its chemically similar analogues (including carfentanil, acetylfentanyl, butyrfentanyl and furanyl fentanyl) have been associated with an increase in opioid overdose deaths. There is evidence that drug dealers may be adding fentanyl to increase the potency of their products (such as heroin) and selling fentanyl as counterfeit tablets, created to look like authentic prescription drugs. Therefore, many users who test positive for fentanyl and its analogues do not realise that they have taken the substance.
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Source: Opioid overdose (who.int)
