Carfentanil (Item)

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Carfentanil

Found in:  

Fentanyl, Heroin

Type/Reason added:  

Fentanyl Analog

Relative Potency:  

100 times stronger than fentanyl, 1000 times stronger than morphine (10,12)

Overview

The Effects

Treatment Options

Supportive Care:

Oxygenation, respiratory support, and close monitoring in an intensive care setting are often necessary.

Antidote:

Naloxone (Narcan) is the primary antidote used to reverse opioid toxicity. However, due to carfentanil's high potency, very high doses or repeated administrations of naloxone may be required.

Pharmacokinetics and Dynamics

Metabolism:

Carfentanil is metabolized in the liver, similar to other opioids, primarily through the CYP3A4 enzyme pathway.

Drug-Drug Interactions:

There is a high potential for dangerous interactions with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, opioids, and other benzodiazepines, which can significantly increase the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression.