Fentanyl and its Analogues - 50 years on

ABSTRACT

Fentanyl and its analogues are potent synthetic opioids, which are liable to abuse. They are often sold under the guise of heroin or prescription medicines, such as oxycodone, and this exacerbates the risk of overdose and associated fatalities. An increasing number of deaths have been associated with the use of fentanyl and its analogues, particularly in North America. The facile synthesis of a number of these substances, coupled with the ease in obtaining the required precursor chemicals and equipment, has led to an increase in clandestine manufacture.