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Original article: Tras hallazgo de parches de fentanilo en feria libre: Experto advierte riesgos mortales por consumo o manipulación sin supervisión médica

The recent discovery of fentanyl patches being sold at a free market in the Independencia commune of the Metropolitan Region has raised urgent health alerts across the country, as this product poses a serious health risk if handled or consumed without medical supervision.

Professor Mario Rivera Meza, a member of the Department of Pharmacological Chemistry and Toxicology at the University of Chile’s Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, explains that fentanyl «is a potent opioid analgesic primarily indicated for the treatment of post-surgical and cancer-related pain.»

As the academic details, this medication is mainly used in hospital settings, although it can also be obtained at pharmacies under strict regulation, requiring a validated prescription.

«It is not an easily accessible drug due to its high potency and associated risks of improper use,» emphasizes the specialist.

Key Risks

One of the dangers associated with consuming fentanyl without medical supervision is respiratory depression, which can lead to fatal outcomes.

This is compounded by the risk of developing dependence in a short time frame. Moreover, handling the patches by children is particularly hazardous, as improper management can easily result in severe poisoning.

Regarding the fentanyl patches found at the free market, Professor Rivera explains that these devices are designed to release the medication in a controlled manner for patients with severe pain, such as those recovering from major surgeries or suffering from cancer.

«Improper use of these patches, without professional evaluation or monitoring, can lead to an overdose that could ultimately result in death,» warns the University of Chile expert.

Alert Call

In Chile, the presence of such medications in informal trade settings constitutes a health violation due to the serious risk they pose to the public.

As a result, specialists emphasize the importance of not purchasing medications outside of established channels and always following the advice of healthcare professionals.

In light of this situation, the call is to avoid buying medications from informal sources and to enhance education about the risks associated with their improper use.

«The detection of fentanyl outside regulated channels highlights the need to strengthen oversight and public awareness regarding substances with a significant health impact,» concluded Professor Rivera.

The Citizen

La entrada Health Risks of Illegally Sold Fentanyl Patches in Chile: Expert Warns of Fatal Consequences se publicó primero en El Ciudadano.