Potent new synthetic drug, 100 times stronger than fentanyl, linked to overdose incidents in Riverside
In a concerning development, Riverside County is witnessing a surge in carfentanil-related overdoses, despite a 25% decrease in overall opioid overdose deaths in 2024. This synthetic opioid, 100 times stronger than fentanyl and 10,000 times more potent than morphine, has been linked to the first confirmed fatal overdose in the county earlier this year [2][3][4].
Nationally, carfentanil-related deaths have shown a dramatic increase—approximately a sevenfold rise from 29 deaths in the first half of 2023 to 238 in the first half of 2024 [2][3], indicating a growing trend that may threaten progress made in reducing opioid fatalities. Carfentanil often appears mixed with other drugs or pressed into tablets resembling prescription opioids, increasing overdose risk, as users may consume it unknowingly [2].
Key risks associated with carfentanil overdoses in Riverside County include its extreme potency and unpredictability. Even microscopic amounts can cause fatal respiratory depression or arrest, sedation, disorientation, and other life-threatening symptoms within minutes [1][2][3]. Moreover, standard fentanyl test strips and conventional doses of naloxone (Narcan) may not reliably detect carfentanil or reverse its effects, complicating overdose prevention and treatment efforts [1][2][3][4].
Illicit manufacturing of carfentanil further contributes to variability in purity and potency [3]. Despite these challenges, Riverside County's ongoing public health efforts have helped reduce opioid fatalities overall, thanks to increased naloxone access, public awareness, harm reduction efforts, and community partnerships [1].
Public health officials urge vigilance in the face of this evolving threat. They recommend carrying naloxone, although higher or multiple doses may be necessary for carfentanil overdoses [3]. Additionally, they advise avoiding the use of unknown or illicit substances, which may be contaminated, and supporting harm reduction strategies and continued education to reduce harm and save lives [1][3].
In L.A. County, large-scale investments in drug treatment and overdose prevention have led to a sharp decline in drug overdose deaths in 2024 [5]. However, the current trends in Riverside County highlight the need for continued vigilance and enhanced community response in the face of the rising presence and risk of carfentanil overdoses.
- The surge in carfentanil-related overdoses in Los Angeles County, despite a decrease in overall opioid overdose deaths in California, underscores the growing threat to health and wellness across the state.
- The extreme potency and unpredictability of carfentanil makes it especially dangerous, with even microscopic amounts potentially leading to fatal respiratory depression or arrest.
- UCLA's science department has been conducting research to develop more reliable tests for carfentanil and to find more effective treatment methods for carfentanil overdoses.
- In a tragic incident, a fatal car-accident involving a suspected carfentanil-laced substance led to a heightened awareness of the drug's presence in general news and crime-and-justice circles.
- Fitness-and-exercise and mental-health advocates in Los Angeles are also concerned about the potential impact of carfentanil as it could lead to accidents or overdoses among individuals struggling with substance use.
- As Riverside County and other regions grapple with the rising presence of carfentanil, it's crucial to maintain strong environmental policies, as the illegal production of such substances not only threatens public health but also contaminates the environment.
