Why are Synthetic Opioids a Concern in Toxicology?
Synthetic opioids have become a significant concern in toxicology due to their high potency and potential for overdose. Fentanyl, for example, is estimated to be 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. This high potency increases the risk of accidental overdose, especially when users are unaware of the exact dosage or if the substance has been mixed with other drugs. The rise of illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids has further exacerbated the issue, contributing to the current opioid crisis.
