It was only a matter of time...

News reports out of Arizona (12News) state that the DEA has raided a synthetic cannabinoid manufacturing laboratory.

Well, that's not news. It's happened quite a bit over the last several years.

Oh wait...

These folks were mixing synthetic cannabinoids with fentanyl.

This definitely is a way to cause serious harm.

It was only a matter of time.

According to the news report, they manufacturers were preparing the fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoid product in a cement mixer.

Yikes.

If I was in possession of a synthetic cannabinoid containing product in the state of Arizona, I'd throw it away. Now.

To all the people that come into contact with these substances (whether user, law enforcement, first responder, hospital staff, forensic chemists, etc.), be safe.

Officials prepare for the next big drug? It's U-47700.

Here is an article about the possible emergence of the opioid research chemical U-47700 in Iowa.

One quote to which you should pay attention...

"Weber says the new drug contains fentanyl which is a powerful medication."

No.

No.

No.

Though they may be found together in illicitly produced products, U-47700 is not Fentanyl. Fentanyl is not U-47700.

They are two different compounds each with its own distinct chemical structure.

Let's make sure to accurately describe the situation.

W-18 is now controlled in Canada.

Health Canada has controlled W-18.

Link is here.

Though, they still say it is an opioid drug and it is 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which we know is not accurate.

Health Canada needs to do better. People, internally and externally, look to the organization for accurate information.