Dennis is joined by Aaron, an emergency medicine physician and medical toxicologist. In this episode they discuss carfentanil, a synthetic opioid used in the 2002 Moscow hostage rescue.
Carfentanil can cause CNS depression, pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression, and decreased gut motility. Reversing its effects may require higher doses of naloxone. However, its potency and unknown modifications make it challenging to combat. We’re still waiting for better treatments and auto-injectors. In the field, it’s crucial to differentiate opioid overdoses from other injuries, considering opioids’ widespread use and potential for weaponization.
