A recent study conducted by NYU Langone, funded by the National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, highlights the alarming spread of fentanyl in America’s illegal drug market. This surge has taken place rapidly.
Data from law enforcement seizures reveals a staggering 1700% increase in illicit fentanyl seizures between 2017 and 2023.
In 2023, fentanyl pills accounted for almost half of all fentanyl seizures, amounting to 49%, a significant rise from just 10% in 2017.
The majority (85%) of these seizures occurred in the western United States.
Dr. Joseph Palamar, a lead researcher on the study, noted that while the numbers are shocking, they are in line with recent trends.
“A few years ago, fentanyl primarily existed in powder form. It first infiltrated the heroin supply chain, and then pills entered the scene—particularly in the western region—significant as pills introduce fentanyl in a completely different way to individuals,” he explained.
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Palamar underscores how the availability of fentanyl in pill form has changed the landscape and accessibility of the drug. Pills are easier to consume or smoke, eliminating the need for needles. Moreover, due to their resemblance to legitimate medications, individuals unaware of the presence of fentanyl might unknowingly ingest it, leading to overdoses.
“My concern is particularly about young individuals seeking pills like Adderall, Oxy, or Xanax. If obtained illegally, they might be unaware of the fentanyl content—just a small amount can be fatal for a teenager,” Palamar warned.
Rob Sullivan, overseeing multiple drug detox programs in northwestern Washington state, has observed prolonged detox periods for fentanyl users, necessitating extended stays and facing challenges with completion. He emphasized the difficulty of detoxing from fentanyl, often without individuals realizing they have taken the drug.
“With fentanyl, detoxing is exceptionally tough and protracted, leading to lower completion rates compared to traditional opioids. It’s a different realm altogether,” Sullivan shared.
Palamar hopes that these study findings will encourage a greater focus on drug prevention efforts.
“Education on fentanyl and its associated dangers is crucial, especially for individuals inexperienced with the drug. I am concerned about new users and unintentional exposures, especially among young people,” he added.
