HealthJune 14, 2026
fentanyl
/ˈfɛntənəl/
Definition
A powerful synthetic opioid used as a painkiller or anesthetic, but also frequently involved in fatal illegal drug overdoses.
Etymology
The name is derived from the chemical name 'phenethyl-phenyl-piperidine' combined with the suffix '-anyl,' typical for substances in this class. It was first synthesized in 1960 by chemist Paul Janssen in Belgium.
In the news
In this article, fentanyl is mentioned as the focal point of the 'HALT Fentanyl Act,' a legislative effort to address the ongoing opioid crisis through federal policy.
Tracking Key Mental Health and Substance Use Policy Actions Under the Trump Administration
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