The Fentanyl Epidemic: Origins and Impacts

This chapter explores the history and formulation of fentanyl, detailing its initial medical uses and subsequent risks associated with its illicit use. It highlights the rise of fentanyl in the opioid crisis, examining the surge in fatal overdoses and the social and economic factors contributing to addiction. The discussion emphasizes the complexities of managing fentanyl's medical potential while addressing the urgent public health crisis it has generated.