Scientific Reports (Oct 2024)

Field and laboratory perspectives on fentanyl and carfentanil decontamination

  • Pernilla Lindén,
  • Lina Mörén,
  • Johanna Qvarnström,
  • Nina Forsgren,
  • Cecilia Springer Engdahl,
  • Magnus Engqvist,
  • Jiri Henych,
  • Tobias Tengel,
  • Lars Österlund,
  • Lina Thors,
  • Andreas Larsson,
  • Susanne Johansson

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-74594-z
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 1
pp. 1 – 15

Abstract

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Abstract Abuse of the highly toxic compound fentanyl and its analogues is increasing, raising serious public health concerns due to their potency and availability. Therefore, there is a need for decontamination methodologies to safely remove fentanyl to avoid harmful exposure. In this study, the efficacy of commercial and in-house synthesized decontamination agents (Dahlgren Decon, RSDL (Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion), FAST-ACT (First applied sorbent treatment against chemical threats), GDS2000, alldecont MED, bleach, Domestos Spray Bleach, Effekt Klor, MgO, TiO2-nanodiamond, and CeO2) were evaluated for the degradation of fentanyl and carfentanil under controlled laboratory conditions and on wooden floor surfaces. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis showed that oxidative decontamination agents were the most effective, with N-oxides identified as major degradation products. The physiological effects of these N-oxides were also investigated regarding their ability to activate the µ-opioid receptor and their metabolism in human liver microsomes. The results provide empirical evidence that complements prior research findings on the degradation of fentanyl and carfentanil using a variety of decontamination agents.