Summary
2,2′-Difluorofentanyl is a synthetic opioid analgesic, closely related to fentanyl, and has gained notoriety as a designer drug.
| Identifiers | |
|---|---|
| IUPAC name | |
| CAS Number | 2748343-87-3 |
|---|---|
| PubChem CID | 137700285 |
| UNII | B61QTX2SWO |
| Chemical and physical data | |
| Formula | C22H26F2N2O |
| Molar mass | 372.460 g·mol−1 |
Side effects
The side effects of fentanyl analogs mirror those of fentanyl itself, encompassing symptoms such as itching, nausea, and the potential for severe respiratory depression, which poses a life-threatening risk. Throughout Europe and the former Soviet republics, fentanyl analogs have claimed the lives of numerous individuals since their resurgence in use, commencing in Estonia in the early 2000s, and they continue to evolve with novel derivatives emerging. In the United States, a new wave of fentanyl analogs emerged around 2014, contributing to a growing prevalence of overdose-related deaths, with hundreds of fatalities each week, particularly since 2016.
Legal Status:
As a derivative of fentanyl with ring substitutions, 2,2′-difluoro fentanyl is prohibited under drug analog laws not only in the United States but also in various other jurisdictions worldwide.
FAQ
- What is 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl?
- 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl is a synthetic opioid analgesic that is chemically related to fentanyl. It has gained attention as a designer drug.
- What are the side effects of 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl?
- The side effects of 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl are similar to those of fentanyl and may include itching, nausea, and potentially severe respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
- Have fentanyl analogs like 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl caused fatalities?
- Yes, fentanyl analogs have been associated with numerous fatalities, especially since their resurgence in use in various regions. In Europe and the former Soviet republics, they have caused deaths since the early 2000s. In the United States, a new wave of fentanyl analogs emerged around 2014, leading to a significant increase in overdose-related deaths, with hundreds of fatalities reported each week, particularly since 2016.
- What is the legal status of 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl?
- 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl is generally banned under drug analog laws in multiple jurisdictions worldwide, including the United States. These laws aim to control and regulate substances that are chemically similar to known illicit drugs to prevent their distribution and use.
- Is 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl prescribed for medical use?
- As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl was not approved for medical use and was primarily associated with the designer drug market. Please note that this information might have changed since then.
- Is it safe to use 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl?
- No, using 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl or any fentanyl analog is not safe, as they carry significant risks, including the potential for life-threatening side effects and overdose. It is crucial to avoid the use of such substances and seek medical assistance if needed.
- Where can I find more information about 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl?
- To stay updated and informed about 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl and related substances, it is advisable to refer to reputable sources such as government health agencies, drug enforcement agencies, or public health organizations. Additionally, consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns about exposure or usage of such substances.
References
- DEA’s Regulatory Action (2018): In 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), part of the Department of Justice, took a significant regulatory step. They issued a notice titled “Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of Fentanyl-Related Substances in Schedule I.” This was a temporary amendment, and it appeared in the Federal Register, Volume 83, Issue 25, spanning pages 5188 to 5192. This measure aimed to address the concerns regarding fentanyl-related substances. The publication can be found in the Federal Register with the PMID 29932611.
- Analyzing 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl (August 2017): A scientific study conducted by Liu, Cuimei, Li, Tao, Han, Yu, Hua, Zhendong, Jia, Wei, and Qian, Zhenhua, delved into “The Identification and Analytical Characterization of 2,2′-Difluorofentanyl.” This research, which was published in the journal Drug Testing and Analysis, Volume 10, Issue 4, presented insights into the compound. The study can be accessed through DOI: 10.1002/dta.2264 and was indexed with PMID 28851108.
- Fentanyls on the Rise in Europe (July 2015): In July 2015, Mounteney J, Giraudon I, Denissov G, and Griffiths P highlighted a concerning trend in their paper titled “Fentanyls: Are we Missing the Signs? Highly Potent and on the Rise in Europe.” This publication, featured in The International Journal on Drug Policy, Volume 26, Issue 7, discussed the increasing prevalence of highly potent fentanyls in Europe. It can be accessed through DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.04.003 and was indexed with PMID 25976511.
- Comprehensive Review on Synthetic Opioids (October 2017): In October 2017, Armenian P, Vo KT, Barr-Walker J, and Lynch KL published a comprehensive review titled “Fentanyl, Fentanyl Analogs, and Novel Synthetic Opioids: A Comprehensive Review.” This review, available in PDF format, was featured in Neuropharmacology, and it encompassed a wide array of information regarding these substances. You can find it through DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.016, and it was indexed with PMID 29042317. This comprehensive review provides a valuable resource on these synthetic opioids.