Recently, the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken’s three-day visit to China spoke about the production and export of “synthetic opioid precursors”, specifically the drug fentanyl.
About Opioids:
These are a class of drugs that derive from or mimic, natural substances found in the opium poppy plant. They activate an area of nerve cells in the brain and body called opioid receptors that block pain signals between the brain and the body.
They produce a variety of effects, including pain relief and euphoria and are highly addictive. Some common opioids include oxycodone, morphine, codeine, heroin and fentanyl.
Opioid overdose: It can lead to death due to the effects of opioids on the part of the brain which regulates breathing.
An opioid overdose can be identified by a combination of three signs and symptoms: pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness and difficulties with breathing.
What is Fentanyl?
It is a potent synthetic opioid drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use as an analgesic (for pain relief) and anesthetic.
It is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin as an analgesic.
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