What is a major characteristic of synthetic opioids like fentanyl?

Synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, are significantly more potent than natural opioids and have been linked to rising death rates due to their misuse and abuse. The period since 2013 has seen a drastic increase in overdose fatalities associated with synthetic opioids, particularly because of their high potency and the ease with which they can be laced into other drugs or used illicitly.

This surge in death rates reflects not only the risks associated with their use but also a larger public health crisis surrounding opioid addiction and overdose. The widespread availability of these substances, often through illegal channels, further contributes to the alarming statistics. This context highlights the critical nature of understanding the dangers posed by synthetic opioids like fentanyl, separating it from misconceptions about their safety or availability.