Methylfentanyls

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Methylfentanyls

Found in:  

Fentanyl

Type/Reason added:  

Fentanyl Analog

Relative Potency:  

α-methylfentanyl:
similar to fentanyl, but more toxic (11)

(+)-cis-3-methylfentanyl: 20 times stronger than fentanyl
(-)-cis-3-methylfentanyl: about 20% of fentanyl (11)

(±)-trans-3-methylfentanyl:
similar to fentanyl (11)

Overview

The Effects

Treatment Options

Description and Classification

Methylfentanyls:

Methylfentanyls refer to a group of synthetic opioids that are structurally related to fentanyl, with methyl substitutions at various positions in the fentanyl molecule. These derivatives include compounds like α-methylfentanyl, β-methylfentanyl, and 3-methylfentanyl, among others. Each variant has slight chemical modifications that can alter potency, metabolism, and pharmacological effects.

Relative Potency

Potency:

Several methylfentanyl analogs exhibit varying potencies and toxicities compared to fentanyl. α-Methylfentanyl is similar to fentanyl in its effects but is considered more toxic. Among the 3-methylfentanyl isomers, (+)-cis-3-methylfentanyl is 20 times more potent than fentanyl, while (-)-cis-3-methylfentanyl is significantly weaker, with about 20% of fentanyl's potency. The (±)-trans-3-methylfentanyl isomer, on the other hand, has a potency and effect profile similar to fentanyl.

Why It Is Added

Purpose

They are frequently sold as heroin substitutes or mixed into other drugs to increase their potency. Users often consume these substances unknowingly, as they are disguised in counterfeit pills or powders marketed as heroin, oxycodone, or other opioids.