What is Carfentanil?
Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid analgesic that is 100 times stronger than fentanyl. It is the most potent opioid known. Just a few granules is enough to trigger a fatal overdose. It was created in the 1970’s as an elephant or large mammal tranquilizer.
Poster version of this Drug Alert (PDF)
The facts
- The plain chemical looks like table salt.
- It is more potent than morphine and fentanyl.
- It can be sold in several forms, including powder, blotter paper, tablets, and spray.
- It can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled.
- It can be added to other drugs in any form.
Overdose symptoms include:
- slowed breathing
- drowsiness
- disorientation
- sleepiness
- pinpoint pupils
- clammy skin
The onset of these symptoms usually
occurs within minutes of exposure.
Be safe
- Using opioids daily or occasionally can result in an elevated risk of overdose.
- Start with smaller amounts than usual.
- Use with other people, but NOT at the exact same time. Never use drugs alone.
Have naloxone (NARCAN®) ready.
An overdose occurs quickly. - Call 911.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
For more information, visit the Ontario Poison Centre.
Naloxone kits
Contact Réseau ACCESS Network or ask your pharmacist for a free naloxone kit. http://www.ontario.ca/page/get-naloxone-kits-free
Community Involvement and Accomplishments
- January 2015 Community Drug Strategy Endorsed by Greater Sudbury Police Services Board
- February 2015 Community Drug Strategy endorsed by Sudbury & District Health Unit Board of Health
- Over 75 lbs of old unused medications were received during Drug Drop Off Day, 2015.
- Launched the Patch4Patch program June 1, 2015
- City Council endorsed the Community Drug Strategy for the City of Greater Sudbury: a Call for Action, October 20, 2015
- Funding from the Civil Remedies Grant received.
- Hosted an event for 150 people who learned about Resiliency and the Thriving Mindset from Wayne Hammond.
- 2016 Annual Report published.