Fentanyl Detected in Heroin in Perugia: University Intervenes
Fentanyl Detected – A recent health alarm was triggered in Perugia when, through an accurate analysis, the toxicology laboratory of the University of Perugia identified the presence of fentanyl in a dose of heroin. Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, approximately 100 times more powerful than morphine, and known for its lethal effects.
Prof. Cristiana Long legs, head of the Toxicology Laboratory of the University’s Forensic Medicine, Forensic Sciences and Sports Medicine Section, led the team that made this worrying discovery. The laboratory is part of the Department of Medicine and Surgery, under the direction of Prof. Vincenzo Nicola Talesa, with the coordination of Prof. Massimo Lancia.
The discovery of fentanyl in heroin, it immediately activated the national prevention plan against the improper use of opioids. This plan involves issuing an alert to all police forces and competent administrations to intensify the territorial monitoring network and increase vigilance, in order to prevent further risks to public health.
The Prof Long legs provides scientific support to the Street Unit, a service of the Ser.T of the Umbria 1 local health authority which is dedicated to reducing the damage and risks associated with the use of narcotic substances. The presence of fentanyl, often described as “the zombie drug” due to its devastating effects, is a cause for great alarm as it significantly increases the risk of fatal overdose.
Analyzes carried out in Perugia they were also confirmed by the Laboratory of the Department of Addictions of the Istituto Superiore di Sanità, directed by Doctor Simona Pichini, corroborating the results obtained and underlining the importance of synergistic collaboration between universities, health institutions and law enforcement agencies.
Not only this discovery highlight the effectiveness of monitoring and scientific research in the field of toxicology but also the need for a continuous and coordinated commitment to combat the use and spread of illegal and dangerous substances such as fentanyl. The entire community of Perugia is now more aware of the dangers associated with these drugs, and thanks to the prompt and informed action of the authorities, it is hoped to mitigate the impact of this threat on public health.
