Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic with a rapid onset and short duration of action. It can also be used in combination with benzodiazepines as an anesthetic. It is most often used in intensive care units and operating rooms and, in combination with other drugs, for sedation prior to medical procedures. Transdermal patches containing Fentanyl are used to manage chronic pain and lozenges or lollipops can be effective for opioid-tolerant patients in management of cancer pain. More recently, a variety of fentanyl products have appeared, including tablets, nasal sprays, and inhalers, complicating efforts to stem abuse. Brand names of fentanyl include Actiq, Durogesic, Fentora, Matrifen, Instanyl, Abstral, Sublimaze and others.

Abuse and Detection

The effects of fentanyl in abusers is similar to heroin, although users report a less euphoric high and stronger sedative effects. It is considered more dangerous than heroin because the varieties of illicitly synthesized fentanyl on the street can be hundreds of times more potent that heroin. Some heroin dealers mix fentanyl with their product to increase potency. It does not have the same addictive effect as heroin or cocaine.